Queensland Police Face Regulatory Scrutiny Over Watch House Conditions

Queensland Police are under the spotlight following regulatory notices issued by Workplace Health and Safety (WPHS) regarding concerning conditions in watch houses across the state. This development comes in response to a formal complaint lodged by the Queensland Police Union (QPU) back in March, highlighting issues of severe overcrowding and inadequate staffing.

Recent inspections covered multiple facilities, including Brisbane, Caloundra, and Caboolture, where five improvement notices were issued for each of the latter two locations. QPU president Shane Prior revealed that significant deficiencies were noted, particularly concerning chemical storage and building maintenance at the Brisbane watch house.

Among the notices, Caboolture was flagged for lacking a sexual harassment prevention plan. The union's complaint also raised alarming concerns about the extended detention of individuals in overcrowded conditions, with adults held for up to 21 days and young people for 30 days. Hygiene issues, poor ventilation, and insufficient personal protective equipment were also reported.

Prior expressed his deep concerns over the facilities, calling conditions “disgusting” and warning that overcrowding could lead to serious harm for both officers and detainees. WPHS confirmed they are closely monitoring compliance with the issued notices but refrained from disclosing specific details about the inspections.

While the QPS maintains a commitment to improving operations in watch houses, the union insists that substantial risks remain unaddressed despite ongoing reviews.

Source: www.abc.net.au