The design of front counter screens at Justice Centres continues to be contentious and is still in the process of resolution through WorkSafe following the issuing of a number of Provisional Improvement Notices (PINs).

CPSU sought the assistance of WorkSafe in bringing about a systematic solution to the matter that affects or will affect all Justice Centres across Victoria after the an Improvement Notice at Geelong was upheld.

A number of modifications to the design at Geelong have been implemented, in consultation with Professor David Caple, and will also be rolled out at Box Hill Justice Centre.

The modifications are subject to a pilot period, to then be jointly evaluated by DOJ and CPSU.

A Provisional Improvement Notice remains in place at Morwell, and WorkSafe are currently looking at Ballarat.

The whole process has been further complicated by the absence of consultation by DOJ on the establishment of designated work groups in a number of locations, and some big gaps in the organisation and election of health and safety representatives.

CPSU has held firm to its view that the absence of a front counter safety screen presents a high risk to staff safety and psychological well being.

Everyone wants to feel safe at work, and be free of the threat of occupational violence and abuse.

Whilst modifications to front counters can help to reduce the threat of someone physically leaping the counter, they do not prevent verbal abuse, nor the hurling of objects or organic materials.

It is the responsibility of an employer to ensure that the highest safeguards are in place for staff, particularly when there is past evidence of a high level of violence and abuse from community corrections clients.

CPSU will vigorously continue its pursuit of exemplary occupational health and safety standards from the Department of Justice and will settle for nothing less than absolute best practice in the protection of its employees and our members.

Please distribute this bulletin and ask your colleagues to join CPSU to have their voice heard and their views represented.

Our 7 day a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year industrial protection ensures you have the principal public sector organisation looking after your working rights, winning wage increases, protecting your conditions, and providing personal industrial assistance when you need it.


CPSU MEMBERSHIP IS PROTECTION FOR YOUR MOST IMPORTANT ASSET.

YOUR JOB.

Speak to a colleague today about the benefits of CPSU membership and have them contribute to our successes rather than just enjoying the benefits.


TOGETHER WE DO BETTER!

http://www.cpsuvic.org/public_docs/Work-Can-Change-membership-flyer.pdf
http://www.cpsuvic.org/public_docs/memform.pdf


KAREN BATT
Victorian Branch Secretary

13 November 2009