SafeWork SA Inspectors

SafeWork SA Inspectors have a right to enter workplaces to undertake their duties. Visits by our inspectors to workplaces could be in response to an incident, complaint, or as part of a targeted proactive compliance program. Our inspectors will always identify themselves when they visit a workplace.

Union officials

Some union officials may also have a right of entry. The South Australian Employment Tribunal (SAET) are responsible for granting permits to WHS entry permit holders. Union officials must hold a Right of Entry permit to enter a workplaces to:

  • enquire into a suspected contravention of work health and safety laws
  • inspect worker records and
  • consult with workers.

Union officials that are entry permit holders do not have the same enforcement powers as SafeWork SA Inspectors and must must follow strict procedures with penalties in place for any misuse of the Right of Entry.

See our section of Entry Permit Holders for further details.