Sydney Water employee Reem Yelda was happy to be the poster girl for workplace safety.

When she and a male colleague were asked in September 2015 if they would be photographed for a campaign to promote spine safety, they agreed without hesitation.

Sydney Water employee Reem Yelda was humiliated to learn her image had been used beneath an offensive slogan. Credit:Cole Bennetts

It was only once the poster was slathered around depots that the customer liaison officer learnt how her image had been used, and she was so devastated she has not returned to work since.

The poster features Ms Yelda pumping her fist into the air, beneath the slogan "Feel great – lubricate!".