Work safety regulator issues improvement notices to Queensland police watch houses

After the Queensland Police Union lodged a complaint about severe overcrowding and staffing shortfalls, Workplace Health and Safety conducted site visits at watch houses across the state, including locations in Brisbane, Caloundra, Caboolture, Ipswich, Cleveland, Southport and Beenleigh. The inspections resulted in a series of regulatory improvement notices addressing deficiencies such as chemical storage, building maintenance, inadequate ventilation, mould, unreliable CCTV and the absence of a sexual-harassment prevention plan.

The union also reported extended detention periods and hygiene failures in aging facilities. WPHS clarified that the notices are written directions requiring remedial action, not monetary penalties, and said it will keep overseeing the watch houses. The Queensland Police Service declined to comment on the specific notices but reiterated its commitment to custody operations and ongoing reforms. The police minister has been approached for comment.