Safework

High-tech drones will soon be zooming across properties in regional NSW, helping farmers to do their work safer and better thanks to new funding from the Liberals & Nationals Government.

Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said a drone rebate would be offered as part of an extra $2.8 million dollars in funding that will also extend the Quad Bike Safety Improvement Program.

A blitz on silicosis has resulted in 114 notices to cease work or improve practices, as part of a nation leading NSW Government program to combat the terrible disease.

Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said SafeWork inspectors launched the blitz in October 2017, and had already undertaken 358 compliance visits across NSW. 

“Silicosis is an awful disease that can have a huge impact on businesses and families across the State,” Mr Kean said.

A stellar line-up of businesses and individuals are vying for eight prestigious prizes, as finalists of the annual SafeWork NSW Awards are announced.

Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said the awards recognise businesses and individuals with the most outstanding workplace health and safety standards and return to work outcomes in NSW. 

“Every worker has the right to a safe and healthy workplace, regardless of your industry, occupation or background,” Mr Kean said.

Workers will be better protected thanks to a new safety plan that that aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in the manufacturing sector, Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said.

Mr Kean said manufacturing is one of the state’s highest risk industries, and employs more than 240,000 workers.

“The manufacturing sector is one of the state’s most significant industries, producing a wide range of goods and injecting thousands of vital jobs into the economy,” Mr Kean said.

A Canley Heights real estate agent has been convicted of fraud after transferring more than $300,000 in client trust funds to his personal account, Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said.

David Tang, 35, was found guilty in Parramatta Local Court of fraudulently transferring money from his company’s trust account when he was the sole director.

Mr Kean said Tang was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, to be served through an Intensive Correction Order.

The NSW Government will continue to push for the highest possible safety standards in the workplace, with two key ministers making the pledge ahead of a ceremony to remember people who lost their lives in work-related accidents.

Treasurer and Minister for Industrial Relations Dominic Perrottet said while there had been a 28 per cent reduction in work-related fatalities in NSW over the past 10 years, this number provided little solace for families who had lost a loved one.

Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Matt Kean told Triple Z Lismore about local company awarded by Safe Work.

SafeWork will continue to monitor asbestos issues at Wentworth Falls Pre-school.

Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Matt Kean told Ray Hadley on 2GB he had advice from SafeWork are at the site today.

Fireworks might be fun but they should be left to the expert.

Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Matt Kean told WSFN if you think of buying fireworks you will be caught and face significant penalties.

Hunter fireworks' enthusiasts are being advised of the dangers and illegality of the unapproved use of pyrotechnics on New Year's Eve.

SafeWork NSW are encouranging people to stick to attending compliant and official displays, of which 211 have been approved across the state.

A fine of up to $27,500 and 12 months jail awaits anyone caught selling, purchasing or letting off fireworks without a licence.