The Deaths in Custody Watch Committee has welcomed WorkSafe's investigation into the death of an Aboriginal elder. Mr Ward died from heatstroke in 2008 after being transported from Laverton to Kalgoorlie in the back of a prison van.
WorkSafe has confirmed it has begun investigating whether anyone involved in Mr Ward's death breached the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
The Deaths in Custody Watch Committee chairman, Marc Newhouse, says the investigation may uncover new evidence.
"No stone should be left unturned in bringing those responsible for Mr Ward's torturous, terrible death to account."
The journey of several hundred kilometres was undertaken in searing heat when the air conditioning in the back was not working.
The temperature is believed to have reached 50 inside the van.
The Coroner found the two prison van drivers, their employer G4S and the Department of Corrective Services were all partly responsible for his death.
However, the Director of Public Prosecutions ruled out criminal charges because of a lack of evidence.
That prompted Worksafe to reconsider civil action over the case.
Reported by ABC News: 8/7/10
EasyOHS Comment:
There is an increasing focus (on both public bodies and private organisations) regarding duty of care of all people (visitors, customers, clients, contractors) that are impacted by work related incidents. The new National Safety laws have considerable impacts in this regard.
We will keep you posted once further legislation and regulations are developed.
