Page 398 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 13 May 1992
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Bank Security Shields
MR STEVENSON: My question is to Minister Wayne Berry and concerns bank security shields which when activated rise at a great speed from the counter to the ceiling. I believe that these security shields are currently in use in the ACT, or their use has been proposed. If one watches the actions of the staff or customers at a bank where such shields are fitted, it is obvious that there is a potential for serious physical injury, or even death, if someone's arm or head is over the shield when activated, whether accidentally or intentionally. It is equally obvious that customer warning signs or staff training may reduce but not prevent the potential danger. What action can the Minister take to ensure that people in the ACT are not exposed to this risk, either currently or in the future?
MR BERRY: First, I would advise Mr Stevenson that he should not stand around banks watching things like that. Do not wear your balaclava or a motorcycle helmet, or you will be in deep trouble. I must thank Mr Stevenson for giving me some warning in relation to this matter, because I have been able to gather some information which enables me to answer it straightaway.
There has been some consultation with banks and building societies and the relevant union involved in the use of this system within the ACT. Officers of the ACT Occupational Health and Safety Office have been assured that safety measures are in place to minimise the risk to both staff and the customer. They do not say much about the robber. I understand that some unfortunate person was killed in Sydney as a result of one of these things. They are potentially dangerous if people are not familiar with them.
A sign is displayed at teller booths, informing the public not to place items on the counter due to the installation of the security system. The system is architecturally designed to reduce the possibility of people leaning over the area where the screen may rise. This is done by attaching perspex screens, approximately 35 centimetres in height, in front of the security shield system. This minimises or discourages the likelihood of persons bending over the counter. People cannot sit on the edge of the counter, as smaller perspex screens are attached close to the edge of the counter, if you can picture that. I will leave that to you because you have obviously been watching. If the screen inadvertently rises, there is a hinged cover in place. This folds back in such a way that it pushes an object or person out of the way as the screen rises. That must not have occurred - - -
Mr Connolly: Because he had a pistol in his hand and was pointing it at the nose of the teller.
MR BERRY: Right. Staff are also trained to stop anyone leaning over these security screens. The switch mechanism that activates these screens is in a position where it cannot be accidentally activated.
I will refer this matter to the Occupational Health and Safety Office, nevertheless, with a view to further discussion with industry parties, employer and employee organisations, just to see whether there are any improvements that might be available. They need to be scrutinised closely to ensure that there is absolutely no risk to people from these security arrangements. Thank you again for the question.
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