WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North said today everyone on both sea and land needed to have safe systems of work in place and operating when a cyclone approached.
“Employers must have adequate plans in place and must provide employees with appropriate training to protect everyone in the workplace when a cyclone threatens,” Ms North said.
“The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast an average number of tropical cyclones in the waters off the North-West coast this season but has added that there is a greater risk of cyclones being severe due to higher-than-average ocean temperatures.
“The average number of tropical cyclones per season is eleven, and typically around four will cross the coast.
“WA has experienced numerous cyclones over the years that have caused significant damage amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, along with the loss of several lives.
“It’s extremely important that everyone in a workplace – regardless of their employer – knows exactly what they need to do in the event of a cyclone threat. This is particularly important on sites with employees from several companies where a coordinated plan is vital.”
Fishing vessels need to keep a list of sheltered anchorages and have information on how to use them, along with a specific action plan for each vessel depending on the distance from the cyclone and safe harbours.
For the fishing, charter and recreational sectors, the Department of Transport has cyclone contingency plans for regional boat harbours along the WA coast.
“Employers should not leave anything to chance when a cyclone is threatening and must make sure safe work practices are in place well before a cyclone is in their vicinity,” Ms North said.
“Whether the workplace is a fishing vessel or in a land-based location, everyone should be trained in the cyclone contingency plan and follow all instructions given when a cyclone is approaching.”
Further information on cyclone contingency plans can be found on WorkSafe’s website.
Media Contact: Caroline De Vaney, 0408 927563 (media enquiries only). caroline.devaney@demirs.wa.gov.au