Employer of fabrication apprentices banned

Recently, we cancelled the approval of an engineering company to employ apprentices in the Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade.

An apprentice was seriously injured at work when they were left unsupervised. We acted swiftly to ban that employer and ensure the safety of other apprentices.

All employers must provide apprentices with proper supervision by a suitably qualified and experienced person. This is critical to ensure the safety of apprentices, particularly in high-risk industries such as engineering and metal fabrication.

Our authorised officers go to workplaces to make sure that employers are meeting their obligations. We also work with other Victorian other regulatory agencies to reduce the risk of harm.

Want to know more?

WorkSafe has information and resources for employers and employees working in foundries and metal fabrication.

Apprenticeships Victoria has guidance and fact sheets on effective supervision.

Apprentices and employers in any industry with concerns about supervision arrangements, can contact the VRQA. We can offer advice and send authorised officers to your workplace.

• 1300 722 603(opens in a new window) (9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday)
• vrqa.apprenticeships@education.vic.gov.au(opens in a new window)