A bill intended to improve worker safety was introduced by Government MP in the House of Assembly on Friday, but tabled for later consideration.

The bill, entitled the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Act 2004, seeks to amend the original 1982 Act because of social and technological changes in the workplace, in a bid to conform with international conventions.

The suggested amendment targets seven areas for improvement, including better protection for employees against danger in the workplace, protection from unjust disciplinary action, and the mandatory investigation of accidents with reports submitted to the Minister.

Under the proposal, workplaces with less than ten employees which do not have a Health and Safety committee will be required to appoint a Health and Safety representative.

Employees will have the right to refuse work which they believe presents a serious danger to health or life ? unless such dangers are an inherent part of the job description.

The bill also recommends stiffer penalties for those breaking the law. Anyone convicted of violating the Act, knowing that an employee could be injured or killed as a result, faces up to a $1 million fine and/or a two-year prison term.

And anyone who uses a place of employment despite a closing notice faces up to a six month imprisonment or a $10,000 fine.