Justice Department Charged Over Prison Riot

Following a comprehensive investigation into the riot at the Ravenhall Metropolitan Remand Centre in June 2015, WorkSafe has charged the Department of Justice and Regulation with four breaches of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic).

The OHS charges are:

• Contrary to section 21(1) and (2)(a) in that it failed to provide and maintain safe systems of work.
• Contrary to section 21(1) and (2)(e) in that it failed to ensure the workplace was safe and without risks to health.
• Two charges contrary to section 23(1) in that it failed to ensure persons other than employees were not exposed to risks to health and safety.

WorkSafe understands the significant public interest in the details surrounding this matter. However, as it is now before the Court, it would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this time.

Security leaders and those responsible for maintaining a safe workplace should note that this case is another example of why systems of work should be carefully thought through to ensure there are minimal exposures to hazards and risks in the workplace.