Workplace health and safety investigations have now become routine in circumstances where the safety of employees is called into doubt by an incident or accident. The regulator, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, has legislative powers which can force you to answer questions and if you refuse to cooperate a different criminal offence is committed.

There are four categories of offences for breaching a health and safety duty under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 or the Electrical Safety Act 2002. The categories depend on the degree of seriousness or liability involved, and the penalties vary accordingly. Workplace health and safety offences not only hold companies and individuals liable for significant financial penalties but can also result in imprisonment.