Queensland Police receive safety notices over watch house conditions

Workplace Health and Safety (WHSQ) has issued multiple regulatory notices to Queensland Police regarding conditions in watch houses. This follows a formal complaint from the Queensland Police Union (QPU) in March, which cited overcrowding and unsafe staffing levels. The regulator is continuing to monitor compliance with these notices.

The QPU conducted inspections at Brisbane and regional watch houses, including locations in Caloundra, Caboolture, Ipswich, Cleveland, Southport, and Beenleigh. QPU president Shane Prior confirmed that several notices were issued for the Brisbane watch house, specifically addressing chemical storage and building maintenance issues. In Caloundra and Caboolture, five improvement notices each were given, with one notice in Caboolture related to the absence of a sexual harassment prevention plan.

The union reported concerns such as extended detention periods, hygiene failures, unreliable CCTV, poor ventilation, mold, and insufficient personal protective equipment. The QPU has been highlighting the need to address overcrowding in regional watch houses, where prisoners have been forced to sleep on floors, in exercise yards, or makeshift overflow areas. Prior has described the working conditions as "disgusting" and warned of potential serious injuries or loss of life.

WHSQ declined to provide specific details on the number of watch houses inspected or notices issued due to legal restrictions. However, they stated that regulatory notices have been issued, but no fines were issued. WHSQ continues to monitor compliance and conduct ongoing oversight of the relevant workplaces.

The QPS also did not comment directly on the notices. Instead, a spokesperson emphasized the service's commitment to community safety and the ongoing implementation of 34 recommendations from the QPS Watchhouse Review, with a focus on sustainable improvements across all watch houses. Police Minister Dan Purdie announced a $16 million investment and a full system overhaul to address the issues raised by the union.