WORKSAFE WA has issued a safety alert on working hours after a young security officer on a student visa was fatally injured in a road accident while on his way to work.
While road accidents outside of work do not normally fall into the category of occupational health and safety, WorkSafe WA says the Graham Farmer freeway fatality had direct correlations with the employment of the security worker.
The security worker had been employed by two security companies. He had finished a seven-hour shift for the first company, and taken a five hour break. Following this, he completed a 12.5 hour night shift for the second company, which finished at 6.30am.
The fatal crash occurred while he was on his way to another three hour shift for the second security company commencing at 9.00am that morning.
According to WorkSafe WA, a number of factors were at play, including irregular shifts and long working hours, insufficient recovery time between shifts, the length and timing of the shifts, which increased the impact of fatigue, and the fact that the security officer was employed by more than one employer.
WorkSafe WA says employers are responsible for identifying hazards in relation to working hours. Like other hazards, they need to assess the risks and implement control measures in consultation with staff.
To reduce the risk of fatigue, employers should take into account work schedules, working times, sufficient recovery times, individual and other relevant factors.
Employees should also be informed and trained about the hazards and risks to do with extreme working hours arrangements, fatigue indicators, and their responsibilities for health and safety.