Goulburn Valley farm inspections by WorkSafe, Labour Hire Authority

Orchards and packing sheds in the Goulburn Valley will soon be paid a visit by WorkSafe and Labour Hire Authority inspectors. Here’s what they’re looking for.

INSPECTORS will be visiting orchards and packing sheds in the Goulburn Valley this month, checking coronavirus plans and working conditions.

A three-day inspection program by WorkSafe, Labour Hire Authority and the Department of Health will run from 23-25 February.

WorkSafe inspectors will be focusing on managing the risks around plant and manual handling and the information, instruction and training being provided to workers.

Labour Hire Authority will be checking providers have COVIDSafe plans, as well as looking at their licence status and conditions for labour hire workers.

“These site inspections are important because compliance with coronavirus restrictions and having COVIDSafe plans means we’re protecting the harvest and regional communities — staying safe means staying open,” Labour Hire licensing commissioner Steve Dargavel said.

“We want to see compliance with existing laws because it prevents the spread of coronavirus and the exploitation of workers, creates fairness among employers and improves the reputation of the horticulture sector and regional communities as employment destinations.”

Before the inspections commence, an information session will be held on February 10 at the Parklake Hotel in Shepparton.

A WorkSafe statement said the informal session would provide employers with advice about how to comply with occupational health and safety regulations, stay COVID-safe and support vulnerable workers.

Employers will be able to speak with inspectors and ask questions.

Agriculture Victoria representatives will also be there to answer questions about accessing seasonal workers.

WorkSafe regional operations director Kate Maheras said it had been a difficult time for the horticulture industry, but safety remained a priority.

“This harvest is presenting new challenges and it’s more important than ever that health and safety remains a priority so that businesses can continue to operate safely and smoothly and give seasonal workers confidence that these workplaces are meeting their responsibilities,” she said.

“I would encourage employers to head along to the information session prior to the visits to learn about what we will be looking at and ensure they fully understand their obligations before inspectors arrive.”

Department of Health compliance and enforcement commander Leanne Hughson said the chief health officer’s directions meant all seasonal workers and the businesses they work in were required to meet additional workplace obligations, and that the visits would help ensure coronavirus safety and compliance.

Register for the information session here or phone the WorkSafe Shepparton office on [phone].

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