MBA slams union safety approach

THE Master Builders Association has expressed disappointment at the way the construction union has responded to the deaths of two workers earlier this year.

MBA director Michael McLean said the Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union needed to demonstrate more responsible leadership by working with WorkSafe and industry groups such as the MBA to improve safety standards on building sites.

“Union threats to close down construction sites on safety grounds unless builders and sub-contractors agree to the latest union wage claim is also irresponsible and clearly not the way to go,” Mr McLean said.

“Union tactics to exploit safety as an industrial weapon run the risk of getting builders who have adopted safe work practices completely off-side.

“The union’s previous involvement with the MBA in establishing an industry-wide safety induction program demonstrates it has the capacity to work in harmony with builders and not against them.

“The union should raise any specific concerns it has about unsafe work practices directly with the builder and, if that approach is unsuccessful, with WorkSafe WA,” he said.