Watchdog identifies 'psychological harm' at world's largest lithium mine
Workers at the enormous Greenbushes Lithium Mine say the mine's workplace culture has left them feeling anxious, depressed and worthless.
WorkSafe, Australia's work safety watchdog, has uncovered evidence of significant psychological harm at Talison's Greenbushes Lithium Mine, the world's largest lithium mine. The investigation revealed a toxic workplace culture characterized by excessive work demands, inadequate resourcing, and poor working conditions. Workers at the mine reported issues such as inadequate toilet facilities, contamination of working areas with animal faeces, and a morally distressing environment.
The survey conducted by WorkSafe identified psychosocial hazards that contributed to significant harm to staff. Current and former employees described feeling morally distressed and experiencing burnout, tiredness, nervousness, anxiety, low mood, depression, hopelessness, and feelings of worthlessness. Talison's CEO apologized for any behavior that undermined a respectful and safe workplace and acknowledged the need for improvement.
WorkSafe has issued an improvement notice to Talison, requiring a review of measures to manage psychosocial hazards and consultation with workers by November 20. The review will consider various factors, including job demands, worker control, role clarity, organizational change, consultation, leadership behaviors, reporting arrangements, and workplace conditions.
Talison has begun implementing improvements, including clearer expectations for respectful workplace behavior, increased team capacity, stronger systems, and a site-wide program to improve facilities. The company emphasized its commitment to prioritizing workforce safety and working closely with the regulator to address the raised concerns.
However, some union representatives argue that the company's response remains insufficient and calls for stronger action.
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