Lardner assault probe

WORKSAFE is investigating an alleged assault on one of its inspectors at the Lardner Park Field Days last Friday.
Assaulting a WorkSafe inspector can attract a two-year prison term and fines of up to up to $6,450 for individuals.
Investigations are taking place into claims the inspector was subjected to offensive language and intimidation after attempting to caution a person riding on the drawbar of a trailer attached to a rubbish collection vehicle.
It is believed the inspector stopped the vehicle and attempted to tell the person why riding on the drawbar could be dangerous. The driver, who refused to identify himself, then used the vehicle to push the inspector away while verbally abusing him.
WorkSafe has previously warned that obstructing inspectors, and verbal and physical assaults will not be tolerated – and that preventing them from doing their job will be followed by investigation or possible prosecution.
Last January, the owner of a panelbeating business near Traralgon appeared in court after physically charging and shirt-fronting an inspector while yelling abuse.
And two men appeared in court in January 2007 after an inspector’s camera was taken from him and the film buried in a Mildura drainage project trench.
WorkSafe’s Acting Executive Director Stan Krpan said inspectors had the right to enter workplaces at any time to ensure safety standards were maintained.
“WorkSafe’s aim is to work constructively with all employers and workers,” he said.