More help to keep seasonal workers safe on Victorian farms

WorkSafe has launched a new initiative to help seasonal workers stay safe while working on Victorian farms.

As part of the new initiative, Pacific Islander workers will receive specialised safety resources including videos, posters and written guides in five languages. – Bislama, Fijian, Samoan, Tongan and English.

WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety Narelle Beer said the resources were developed to communicate directly to seasonal workers.

"It is vital that all workers have access to health and safety information in a language they understand," Dr Beer said.

"Seasonal workers can face unique risks, not only if there is a language barrier, but also because they may be unfamiliar with Victorian workplaces, do not fully understand their health and safety rights and can be more reluctant to speak up if they feel unsafe or unsure about a task."

Community member Randall Prior said the project would help improve safety on Victorian farms.

"By using oral and visual communication and responding to the particular issues that face seasonal workers, these new resources will contribute significantly to a safer work environment for the workers," Mr Prior said.

Read the full story on the WorkSafe Victoria website.