BHP launches sex assault hotline ‘The Service’ amid rape allegations in WA

BHP has launched a sexual assault support hotline in the wake of two separate allegations of rape by WA employees. “The Service” will be accessible to direct employees and contractors to provide “immediate and confidential support”. BHP Minerals Australia boss Edgar Basto said it would offer “guidance” and allow alleged victims flexibility in how their case is managed. Launched today in Australia, The Service will also be available in Spanish when it goes live on July 12 for BHP’s Chilean operations. “We have been preparing a dedicated support service for people who have experienced sexual assault or harassment, and others who may be impacted like leaders, witnesses and first responders,” Mr Basto said to workers in an internal memo obtained by The West Australian. “There is no place for sexual assault or harassment at BHP. It is not only completely unacceptable, it is illegal and will not be tolerated.” Two male BHP workers are facing rape charges over separate incidents from last July and November in the Pilbara. In the two BHP rape allegations, both accused men were stood down and will face criminal proceedings in court later this year. Mr Basto said the new hotline was part of an adoption of a more “victim-centric” approach. “These are the foundations for the work we have been doing over the past few years,” he said. By calling the hotline, workers will be connected to a dedicated case co-ordinator who will offer “wellbeing support, practical support and resolution”. The miner engaged psychologists, sexual assault trauma counsellors and Australian Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins when putting together the hotline. BHP has made alcohol limitations part of its sex assault mitigation measures, as well as a security-chaperoned “Walk to Room” service, increased CCTV, lighting, and installation of safety peepholes, and chains on dongas doors. The mining giant is also rolling out a “SafeZone” app, which enables workers and visitors to press either an “Emergency”, “Help” or “First Aid” button if they feel in danger. Today marks the first day of BHP’s new four-drink per day limit, which is a further cut on the six-beverage restriction implemented in March. It comes amid a series of revelations about the sexism and heavy drinking prevalent at a BHP camp north-west of Newman. Female workers claim they have endured stalking, harassment, objectification, derogatory name-calling and inappropriate attention at Mulla Mulla Village. Last Friday, rival executives from the nation’s biggest miners held a landmark press conference to address the rape allegations and present a rare united push to do better by their female FIFO workers. The joint vow came after Liberal MP Libby Mettam, who heads a powerful WA parliamentary committee, announced she would push for an inquiry into the safety of women at mine sites.