OHS

safety is union businessThe CFMEU never compromises on health and safety.

We are known for our strong stand on all aspects of OHS. By being well organised we ensure our members have a strong say on safety in their workplace. Effective campaigns down the years have enshrined wet and hot weather practices, better fall protection, codes of practice for all aspects of construction work, compulsory inductions, safe work method statements and more.

The union runs an Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Unit.  The unit's staff keep members informed of current safety issues and takes up their concerns with WorkSafe. Our Officers regularly attend sites to inspect safety practices and advise on compliance.

The unit is also responsible for supporting CFMEU workplace health and safety representatives. These reps play a crucial role in making sure risks are minimised. Every workplace should have an elected helath and safety rep

Professional training in all aspects of health and safety is provided by our Training Unit, from industry inductions up to diplomas.

Threats to health and safetydon't risk 2nd rate safety

National law changes - The proposal to bring OHS laws in Australia's states into line presents a threat to Victorian reps. The changes would:

  • Weaken rights to attend training
  • Restrict a rep's right to issue improvement notices and direct a ceasework
  • Stop a rep bringing in help, including from a union organiser
  • Make it easier for a boss to disqualify a rep
  • Prevent reps from being involved in resolving isssues

The CFMEU Construction Division National Conference in October committed to an industrial campaign on government-funded projects in 2010 if the final decision on the new laws removes thes rights.

Attack on Construction Unions forces death rate up - The Australian Building and Construction Commission was set up by the anti-worker Howard government to remove building workers' right to be unionised. Despite their promise to restore out rights, Labor maintains the ABCC which continues its drive against unionism in the industry.

Health and safety reps, shop stewards and organisers are threatened with jail and fines by the ABCC for routine safety activity. The ABCC urges bosses to dock the pay of building workers who hold safety meetings.

The result of this intimidation and harrassment is an industry death toll that has risen from 19 in 2005 before the ABCC was set up, to 40 in 2009.