NSW hospitality harassment checks lead to 16 improvement notices

Inspectors led by SafeWork NSW’s Respect at Work Taskforce checked whether businesses were proactively managing WHS risks to prevent workplace sexual harassment. The assessments covered key drivers, including inappropriate alcohol use, late-night work and close contact with customers.

Of the venues inspected, 92 per cent had a system of work to identify sexual harassment risks. However, eight of the 38 venues had not considered a comprehensive range of risk factors. Some risk registers were too broad and did not address sexual harassment risks in enough detail. SafeWork NSW recommends consulting workers to help ensure control measures are appropriate and effective.

Almost every venue had a way for workers to report sexual harassment, but fewer had systems for investigating those reports. SafeWork NSW encourages venues to establish clear, timely and confidential processes for handling reports.

Training on sexual harassment prevention was available to workers and managers at 82 per cent of the venues visited. Several venues required all workers to complete training, including e-learning modules and Respect at Work training. SafeWork NSW advises that training should explain what sexual harassment is, the factors that drive it at work and how to address those factors.

Several venues surveyed after the inspections said they needed ongoing support, particularly to understand the steps needed to prevent workplace sexual harassment. SafeWork NSW’s Respect at Work website provides advice and resources on prevention and response, including the NSW Code of Practice for sexual and gender-based harassment and a hospitality-specific how-to guide.

Workers experiencing unsafe practices are urged to report them to their workplace. Those unable to report a WHS issue internally, or dissatisfied with their workplace’s response, can report it to SafeWork through the Speak Up Save Lives website, including anonymously. Workers can also call SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or use the SafeWork Psychosocial Hazards Report Form online.

SafeWork NSW Director Capability and Engagement, Christina, said hospitality workers face a higher-than-average risk of sexual harassment. She identified alcohol service, late-night work and expectations that customer needs take priority over worker safety and respect as contributing factors.

Christina said the inspections showed progress, but further work was needed in leadership, training, reporting and work design to protect hospitality workers’ health and safety. She said SafeWork NSW had increased its focus on sexual harassment and urged the hospitality industry to take proactive steps to protect workers.

How Blue Safe can help: Our free WHS self-check can help you review your business’s approach to WHS duties and identify areas for closer attention, including psychosocial hazards such as workplace sexual harassment. Take the free WHS self-check