WHS Information
COVID-19 Information from WHS Regulators
WHS regulators are responsible for enforcing and regulating WHS laws. Here is a list of Australian WHS Regulators and their information and support channels regarding COVID-19. Comcare – Comcare has issued guidance for workers and employers on work health and safety and workers’ compensation in relation to the coronavirus outbreak. The information includes advice on WHS obligations, managing risks and compensation coverage. SafeWork NSW – Coronavirus Worksafe…
Read MoreSafeWork SA High Risk Construction Work Audits
In a recent media release, SafeWork SA has stated that they will begin auditing high risk construction work from February 2020 onwards. Construction is one of the most dangerous industries, and exposes workers to numerous hazards, resulting in high levels of workplace injuries and fatalities. There are 18 activities defined as High Risk Construction Work…
Read MoreBricklayer Safety Overview
While not always considered high-risk work, bricklaying still comes with a high potential for workplace injury. For this reason a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) that outlines all risks and control measures should be prepared prior to commencing work. This way all potential hazards and risks can be identified and eliminated as far as possible.…
Read MoreRoofer Safety Overview
Roofing work in considered high-risk if there is a risk of a person falling more than 2 meters (or 3 meters in SA). A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) that outlines all risks and control measures must be prepared prior to commencing work. It is also important that all relevant workers are involved in the…
Read MoreNT Workers warned of heat stress for coming months
WorkSafe NT has warned workers and employers in the Northern Territory to prepare for the coming summer, as the Bureau of Meteorology has forecast higher-than-average temperatures for the next three months. The Bureau has also noted that there is an increased risk of heatwaves to accompany the heat. Exposure to high temperatures and humidity can…
Read MoreQLD – New On-the-Spot Workplace Health & Safety Fines
Recent amendments to the QLD Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 include the introduction of 18 new infringement notice offences for key risk areas such as asbestos, hazardous chemicals and construction work. The 18 new offences are eligible to be become infringement notice offences (PINs), commonly known as ‘on the spot fines’ under the State…
Read MoreTips for your drug & alcohol policy
“Fitness for work means a person’s capacity to work without risk to themselves or others’ health and safety,” says Simon Clayer, Senior Associate with HopgoodGanim , adding that many things can affect fitness for work, including stress, depression, anxiety and fatigue. Clayer recommends any employer considering drafting a drug and alcohol in the workplace policy…
Read MoreGovernment revamps SafeWork SA to improve workplace safety
The SA Government claims that creating separate regulatory and education units at SafeWork SA will better support employers to meet their responsibilities for workplace safety. SA Industrial Relations Minister John Rau said the SafeWork SA structural reforms followed an overhaul of the State’s workers compensation system and feedback from industry, business organisations and unions. “It…
Read More$650k in Grants available for Safety in SA
SafeWorkSA announces $650,000 is available in grants to fund WHS “Research & Innovation” in priority industries such as Construction. Applications open on 24th August and close on 13 November 2015. For more information please visit the SafeWork SA website safework.sa.gov.au (WHS, Work Health and Safety Grant Programs) or call 8204 9587.
Read MoreTop 9 safety checks to avoid fines or a Jail term!
Builders and construction site managers are now responsible for ensuring all contractors attending a work site are compliant with new Work Health & Safety regulations. Here are 9 safety checks the we recommend for site managers to avoid the risk of fines, or even a jail term: 1. Builders Sign. Erect a builder’s sign…
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