Recently, SDA members from a large hardware retailer raised concerns about tasks they were being directed to carry out.
These workers believed the processes posed a genuine risk to their health and safety and that there were no adequate controls in place to manage those risks.
The primary concern related to the handling and clean-up of pre-mix cement products. This included situations where cement had been spilled onto the floor, as well as instances where bags had small tears or damage.
In some cases, workers were instructed to place damaged bags into plastic bags so the product could still be sold. Members raised concerns that these practices could expose them to hazardous dust and chemical components, particularly without proper protective measures or clear safe work procedures.
Despite these concerns being raised at the workplace level, workers reported that little to no meaningful change occurred. The risks remained and workers were still expected to carry out the same tasks under largely the same conditions.
Following initial discussions between the SDA and the company, some steps were taken to improve safety.
This included the introduction of M-class and H-Class industrial vacuums to assist with cleaning up cement dust and spillages, which is an important control measure given the hazardous nature of the fine particulate dust.
While this was a positive development, it did not fully address the concerns raised by members. Key issues around handling the damaged stock, appropriate training and PPE, and overall risk management processes remained unresolved.
Given the ongoing nature of these risks, and the fact that pre-mixed cement products contain hazardous chemical components that may pose multiple hazards to workers, a formal complaint was lodged with the Queensland Work, Health and Safety Regulator.
In response, a Workplace Health and Safety Inspector attended the workplace to assess the situation firsthand.
Following this inspection, an Improvement Notice was issued to the company. This Notice requires the employer to properly reassess the risks associated with both the products and the work processes involved, and to implement appropriate control measures to ensure worker safety.
The company has been given a limited timeframe to comply with the requirements of the Notice. Failure to do so could result in further regulatory action, including penalties.
This situation highlights the importance of workers speaking up when something doesn’t feel right, especially with regard to health and safety.
It also demonstrates the critical role of the SDA in supporting members when workplace concerns are not adequately addressed. When issues are ignored or not properly resolved in the workplace, escalation may be the only way to ensure risks are taken seriously and workers are protected.
No one should be placed in a position where they feel unsafe at work. If you have concerns about your health and safety, and you’re not getting the support or action you need in the workplace, contacting the SDA can help ensure your voice is heard and appropriate steps are taken.