Body cameras to help protect SafeWork NSW inspectors from aggression

The Minns Labor Government’s rollout aims to provide extra protection for inspectors carrying out workplace safety duties. Inspectors can face dangerous situations when dealing with workers and workplaces, including in remote or isolated locations, and are not always welcome on worksites.

Under the “Enhancing our Safety, Enhances Yours” campaign, inspectors will receive cameras they can activate when they consider themselves or another person at significant risk of harm, or when they feel at risk of aggression or violence.

Violence and aggression towards SafeWork inspectors have risen in recent years. There are currently 179 active employer entities flagged for caution following unacceptable behaviour towards inspectors, and several matters are being investigated.

Section 190 of the Work Health Safety Act makes assaulting, threatening or intimidating a SafeWork inspector an offence. Individuals face a maximum penalty of more than $70,000 or two years in prison, while the maximum penalty for a body corporate is almost $400,000. The cameras are intended to deter inappropriate behaviour and support prosecutions for alleged offences against inspectors performing their duties.

All SafeWork NSW inspectors are receiving training in operating the cameras and handling evidence. They will be equipped with the devices over the coming months.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said the government had a zero-tolerance approach to workplace violence and aggression, and described the cameras as part of its commitment to improving workplace safety. She said: “It is a fundamental right of every worker to go to work and come home safely to their loved ones.”

Head of SafeWork Trent Curtin said SafeWork NSW would not tolerate violence or aggression towards inspectors. He described the rollout as an important safety measure that recognised the risks inspectors face while carrying out workplace safety compliance duties across NSW.

Public Service Association of NSW General Secretary Stewart Little said inspectors were too often harassed, threatened or assaulted during worksite visits. He said the association had campaigned for cameras for many years and welcomed their deterrent and evidence-gathering roles. SafeWork NSW Manager Risk, Assurance & Reviewable Decisions Maree Davidson described the cameras as an additional safety tool that could deter aggression and provide material for legal proceedings, while helping inspectors feel safe and supported.

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