NSW authorities have unveiled a new app they say will revolutionise work safety. 

The ‘Speak Up Save Lives’ app allows workers to anonymously raise safety concerns with SafeWork NSW. 

SafeWork says last year saw 560 reports trigger interventions in high-risk safety issues.

NSW Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos says speaking up can sometimes lead to punishment or even the loss of jobs for workers, making anonymity a powerful tool. 

“Speaking up can be intimidating. I want to reassure workers that any identifying features of your submission will not be made visible to your employer. Everyone is entitled to a safe work space,” Ms Petinos says.

“I urge anyone who sees anything risky or unsafe at work to please immediately report it. We all have our part to play to ensuring everyone’s safety.”

She says the app has helped SafeWork NSW prevent injuries and deaths.

“In January, we received a report about scaffolding on a construction site that had no edge protection, no safety ties and was within proximity of live power lines,” Ms Petinos said.

“Inspectors attended the site and issued a prohibition notice immediately. Somebody could have easily fallen to their death or been electrocuted.

“In another example, inspectors responded to reports of unsafe demolition and found unlicensed removalists dismantling a storm damaged house riddled with asbestos. Not only was the house at risk of structural collapse but improper asbestos removal can release deadly particles into the surrounding air.”

The app is accessible here.