Investigation summaries
Operation Bow
In 2017, IBAC investigated allegations that a senior Worksafe inspector neglected to disclose a conflict of interest and failed to act appropriately in the course of his duties. The investigation identified issues with WorkSafe policies, processes and practices, resulting in recommendations to address corruption vulnerabilities.
In 2017, IBAC investigated allegations that a senior Worksafe inspector:
- neglected to disclose a conflict of interest
- failed to act appropriately in the course of his duties
- failed to follow procedure to ensure a close associate avoided prosecution.
The inspector was contacted by a construction-related business informing him of a notifiable incident involving the fall of a worker. The inspector is a close associate of the person who runs that business but failed to adhere to Worksafe’s conflict of interest policy which required him to disclose the association. The inspector then attended the scene of the incident in his official capacity.
Outcome
IBAC substantiated the allegation of conflict of interest. The allegations that the Worksafe inspector failed to act appropriately and misused their position to ensure a close associate avoided prosecution have not been substantiated.
Operation Bow identified issues with WorkSafe policies, processes and practices, particularly in relation to identification and management of conflict of interest, and the actions of inspectors attending notifiable incidents (including the variation in the quality of reports prepared). IBAC made recommendations to address these corruption vulnerabilities.
IBAC publishes responses to our investigations to inform the community about actions agencies advise they are taking, and to share learnings that may help other agencies improve their systems and practices to prevent corruption and misconduct.
