When Loyalty Isn’t Enough: A PCBU’s Failure to Protect Its People

A recent OHS Alert case featured a sobering headline: a PCBU “showed little or no regard for loyal workers.” Though details remain behind a paywall, the coverage highlights a vital truth—dedication and tenure don’t shield employees from systemic safety failures.

1. Loyalty Isn’t a Substitute for Duty of Care

Many organisations presume that long‑serving staff will raise safety concerns. They don’t. Familiarity can breed complacency. And when systems miss hazards, workers—no matter how experienced—remain vulnerable. In this incident, loyal staff were effectively let down by an organisation that didn’t prioritise their welfare.

2. Behavioural Trust Doesn’t Replace Systems

Relying on veteran employees to “just do the safe thing” is inadequate. PCBUs must implement robust systems, procedures, and oversight to ensure hazards are identified and managed effectively—regardless of who’s on shift. Clear safe work method statements (SWMS), active supervision, and regular audits are essential.

3. Visible Leadership and WHS Investment

Loyal workers deserve more than praise—they deserve tangible safety support. That means:

• Investing in training, gear, and resources.

• It is essential to ensure leaders don’t ignore feedback from frontline staff.

• Embedding safety in performance systems and toolboxes—not just in speeches.

4. Due Diligence and Officer Accountability

Under WHS laws, PCBUs hold legal duties to “ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers” ohsalert.com.au+11ohsalert.com.au+11ohsalert.com.au+11ohsalert.com.au.

Inaction—especially when staff are at risk—can lead to prosecutions and fines. This case reminds us that words aren’t enough; leadership action must flow from policy.

5. Takeaways for PCBUs and Officers

Lesson	Application
Never equate loyalty with safety.	Do not assume experience equals safety awareness—validate controls rigorously.
Prioritise the system over the individual.	Use audits, checklists, and data review to ensure safety isn’t person‑dependent
Involve workers constructively	Consult loyal staff—they know the risks—but back them with a structured response.
Act on reported issues	Every hazard report must trigger a documented review, remedy, or escalation.
Record the process	Keep minutes, audit trails, and remediation actions—evidence of true duty fulfilment.

Final Word: Loyalty Needs Systemic Backing

For workers who’ve been with you through thick and thin, loyalty is a gift—not an excuse. PCBUs must ensure their commitment is met with tangible WHS action and oversight. Safety cannot be optional—even for the most trusted members of the team.

Let’s build a culture where trust is earned—and protected—every day.