Question regarding legislative compliance for suicide prevention and mental health support in the mining industry for FIFO workers. The response clarifies the Department of Mines and Petroleum's role in addressing mental health under existing occupational safety and health legislation.

AnsweredQoN 1583Legislative Council
Asked
9 September 2014
Portfolio
Mines and Petroleum

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to FIFO workers, shift workers and long
shift workers, and workplace support for improving mental health in the
workplace, and ask: (a) is there a legislative compliance for industry
to implement suicide prevention activities and training in their workplace, and
promoting mental health; (b) if yes to (a), how does the Department of Mines and Petroleum assess
the legislative compliance obligations of industry bodies and large companies; (c) if no to (a), why not; and (d) if there is no legislative compliance and/or
assessment process, how does the Department of Mines and Petroleum assist industry bodies and large
companies to fulfil its duty of care to its workers?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
14 October 2014
Responded by
Minister for Agriculture and Food representing the Minister for Mines and Petroleum
Response time
35 days
The Department of Mines and Petroleum advises:
(a)
Under the occupational safety and health legislation administered by the Department of Mines and Petroleum, employers have an implied obligation to address mental health issues as part of the general duty of care provisions.
(b)
The Department of Mines and Petroleum's occupational safety and health legislation requires reporting of workers with Lost Time Injuries associated with mental health issues such as bullying, harassment, stress and fatigue. During inspections and audits, inspectors carry out onsite consultation with workers, safety and health representatives and management to assess compliance, as well as investigating complaints.
(c)
Not applicable
(d)
Not applicable

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