Union row with BHP deepens after officials kicked off Port Hedland site
The ETU accuses BHP of illegally removing elected representatives at the miner's Port Hedland operations, while the mining giant claims the union's representatives were acting aggressively towards a female staffer.
Tensions have escalated between BHP and unions at the Port Hedland operations site following the removal of union officials. The Electrical Trades Union (ETU) alleges BHP orchestrated a smear campaign and threatens to take the matter to the Federal Court. During a visit by union representatives on Thursday, three elected officials, two from the ETU and one from the Australian Workers Union, were reportedly illegally barred from the site due to a dispute over sitting arrangements.
BHP has accused the union reps of aggressive behavior towards a female employee requesting compliance. The dispute stems from ongoing negotiations and strikes between BHP and unions, with strikes of varying severity. BHP emphasizes that anyone entering its sites must comply with rules, deeming aggressive behavior unacceptable. WA Police responded to a call at the BHP facility but made no charges or investigations.
The union maintains its officials were civil and peaceful, accusing BHP of a "disgraceful smear" against those illegally prevented from working. BHP management's removal of elected representatives using security guards, the ETU claims, breaches the Fair Work Act and international labor conventions. The Federal Court will decide on the legality of BHP's actions.
Meanwhile, a separate incident involving a contractor's arm being crushed at BHP's Port Hedland operations occurred during a work stoppage by unionized staff. BHP is investigating the injury internally and with regulators, stressing safety as a priority.
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