SA safety penalties to treble in 2008

Corporations face tougher penalties for workplace safety breaches in South Australia from 1 January 2008, under the state government’s Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare (Penalties) Amendment Act.

Industrial Relations Minister Michael Wright says the legislation will be enforced by SafeWork SA and its inspectors.

“From January 1, the maximum penalties for corporate offenders and the public sector will rise to $300,000 for a first offence and $600,000 for subsequent breaches,” he said.

“The law also includes a new offence of reckless endangerment.

“This will apply to any person or business proven to have demonstrated a knowing or reckless disregard for workplace safety that creates a substantial risk of death or serious harm to others.

“The reckless endangerment provision can attract fines of up to $1.2 million for corporations and public sector agencies, while individuals face a maximum fine of $400,000 or imprisonment of up to five years.”

The higher penalties and the new offence will only apply to conduct taking place after 1 January 2008. Incidents prior to that date will be dealt with under the old penalty system.