Published: 19 Dec 2011
Ergon Energy has rejected suggestions that it is seeking to adopt unsafe work practices.
Executive General Manager Operations Peter Billing said Ergon Energy placed a very strong focus on the safety and job security of its employees.
“Ergon Energy will not adopt practices that risk the safety of its people, contractors or the community,” Mr Billing said.
He said union suggestions that Ergon Energy was proposing employees work alone on power poles and on live wires at height without an assistant, were untrue.
“Such practices would be unsafe and illegal,” Mr Billing said.
“Ergon Energy has proposed increased adoption of safe and suitable single person tasks. These may include switching activities, line patrols, routine inspections, and connection and disconnection of underground pillar boxes. It will not include work at heights or on live power lines,” he said.
“Ergon Energy already has union agreement for a range of single person tasks. Adoption of any further safe and suitable single person tasks would involve consultation.
“Ergon Energy requires, and will continue to require, that all employees and contractors working on its network be trained and authorised in accordance with the Electrical Safety Act, associated legislation and established policies and safe working procedures.”
Mr Billing said the union claims were being made in the context of negotiating a new enterprise agreement.
“Ergon Energy has proposed resource optimisation initiatives which include increased single person tasks and continued use of contractors. Ergon Energy has committed to retain a no forced redundancy clause ensuring job security for employees.
“Ergon Energy and unions are involved in conciliation talks before Fair Work Australia. Ergon Energy will be working to finalise an agreement when talks continue on 23 December,” Mr Billing said.
Contact: John Stock
Phone: 3228 7638