WORKSAFE Victoria has once again reinforced its message against initiations and pranks in the workplace. It has called for a zero-tolerance approach to injurious and potentially fatal stunts.
According to WorkSafe General Manager Eric Windholz, large numbers of young and inexperienced workers joining the workforce at this time of year means extra vigilance is needed.
“Supervisors have an important role to play in setting and maintaining clear standards of behaviour at work,” Windholz said.
Victoria’s workplace health and safety laws require employers to provide and maintain a safe workplace and provide appropriate training and supervision. Employees also have a responsibility to work safely, and not put themselves or others at risk.
“Everyone has a responsibility to ensure their workplace is as safe as practicable,” Winholz said.
“All too often, a moment of recklessness results in disaster. There is no room for violence in any workplace.”
Windholz said young workers between 15 and 25 were most likely to experience work-related injury and had a higher rate of hospitalisation than other age groups.
WorkSafe warned that it has and will prosecute cases where people endanger themselves and others through pranks.

Key contact:
WorkSafe Victoria
info@worksafe.vic.gov.au

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