Qantas investigated for suspending worker who raised coronavirus concerns

Qantas is facing an investigation by SafeWork NSW alleging it suspended an aircraft cleaner in February for highlighting concerns about coronavirus exposure at work.

The worker is a union delegate and health and safety rep.

The airline refused to reinstate the employee despite critical media coverage and pressure from the Transport Workers’ Union.

Qantas denies any wrongdoing.

“A union delegate was stood down pending an investigation after incorrectly telling employees it was not safe to work on aircraft arriving from China,” a Qantas spokesman said.

“This was against the advice of health authorities and despite additional safety equipment being provided to employees.”

TWU NSW branch secretary Richard Olsen said Qantas could be hit with hefty fines for ‘discriminatory conduct and prohibited behaviour.’

“If safety reps at Qantas can’t stand up to unsafe work practices, then no worker is safe,” Olsen said.

MMP