It pays to be united

A new website to improve safety at work for local government rangers and parking officers was launched in Sydney on the 2nd December.

The Taskforce’s new website contains vital information about workplace safety for both local councils and for frontline workers.

United Services Union (USU) General Secretary Graeme Kelly said a survey of 254 council rangers and parking officers found that just under half had experienced some form of physical assault.

“Council officers should be able to do their jobs without the threat of violence and intimidation,” Mr Kelly said.

“Unfortunately, violence against council rangers and parking officers is all too common.

“The Local Government Safety Taskforce was formed to tackle this serious problem, and to find new ways to make work safer for council employees.

“Councils around NSW are trying things like working in pairs, better protective equipment, mapping hotspots for violence, and improving access to back-up.

“It is important that councils share this information, and work together to find strategies that have the best results.

“That’s what the Taskforce’s new website will do, by providing a source of information for councils and employees.

“It will also encourage council officers to share tips and tactics about how to stay safe.”

The Taskforce is a coalition of diverse organisations including WorkCover, USU, Local Government and Shires Association, Australian Institute of Local Government Rangers (Inc), Australian National Parking Steering Group, Councilsafe, StateCover and various local councils.

The web site can be accessed at www.localgovernmentsafetytaskforce.com.