Media Release
Thursday, 11th February 2010
Young workers deserve union
standards: ETU calls for review on
insulation safety standards
The ETU Victorian branch called on the government today to review safety
practices by independent contractors in light of the deaths of young workers.
State Secretary Dean Mighell said the same protections that unions had fought
for on building sites ought to extend to young workers at every level.
“The fact that there was no discussion with unions or industry groups prior to
introducing the insulation program is a major oversight,” Mr Mighell said.
“No scrutiny of installers, no regulation, no training and no protection for the
public or workers, no government consultation with unions because we would
demand OH&S standards.
“These door knocking globe changers, dodgy solar installers and insulation
rogues are all thriving industries on the back of Government grants without any
regulation.
“We need to crack down on dodgy contractors and unqualified operators to avoid
any more tragic deaths in this industry.
“We are calling on the Government to regulate the independent contracting
sector to ensure that young workers can receive the same high standards of
training and safety measures they can expect on a unionised worksite.
“Young workers deserve the same rights they can expect on big building sites
where union Occupational Health and Safety regulations are imposed,” said Mr
Mighell.
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact Anaya Latter on
0432 121 636
NEWS 
