Inspection program enhances safety standards in WA’s meat industry

WorkSafe WA has recently carried out a proactive inspection initiative in regional abattoirs, resulting in the issuance of over 500 improvement notices and 6 prohibition notices.

WorkSafe inspectors conducted visits to 19 abattoirs, primarily focusing on the usage and maintenance of knives.

Among the issues highlighted during the blitz were workers moving about with knives, the presence of unsecured knives in the workplace, the act of sharpening knives near other employees, and the use of knives that were damaged.

WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North said the inspection initiative had enhanced safety standards throughout the meat processing sector.

“The high number of notices issued at abattoirs illustrated that safety issues were widespread in the industry,” Ms North said.

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