Workplace health and safety is an important issue in today’s marketplace and your business is
not exempt from compliance.
Health and safety compliance strategies do not have to be complex!
What is a Workplace?
The common definition of a ‘workplace’ is any place work is done. Home office, beach, car,
permanent office or other place. If work is conducted there, you operate a workplace.
What Do I Have to Do?
As an employer you have a legal obligation to provide your employees with a healthy and safe work environment
by eliminating risks at the workplace. The onus is on you and your business!
Do My Employees Have Obligations?
Yes! Workers and other persons at a workplace are obliged to obey the instructions of an employer about
their health and safety, and the health and safety of others.
What Legislation and Regulations Are There?
The legislation and regulations consist of:
- the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 which requires employers and others to
ensure the health and safety of people who may be affected by workplaces, workplace activities or specified
high risk plant
- the Regulation which mainly relates to administrative matters including the registration
of workplaces and plant, and notification of serious bodily injuries, work caused illnesses and dangerous
events
- Compliance Standards which prohibit exposure to risk, or prescribed ways to prevent
risk
- Advisory standards which give practical advice about the ways to identify and manage
exposure to risk.
What is the Aim of the Legislation?
The legislation provides a framework for effective health and safety management. Costs associated with
this management are usually low. The benefits, however, can be considerable. They include:
- fewer accidents and illnesses
- improved productivity and efficiency
- lower absenteeism
- better worker morale
- lower workers' compensation premiums
- because of fewer injuries and illnesses.
Inspections
Inspection can take place at any time by authorised government workplace inspectors.
When auditing your workplace, the Inspector looks at the risks, and what you have done to control them.
To identify the risks, the Inspector examines the following general hazard areas:
- Manual Handling
- Hazardous Substances
- Plant and Machinery
- Noise
- Workplace Environment.
What Can I Do?
You can take action to protect your business by having effective policies and procedures that set out
the obligations and responsibilities of your business and your employees to comply with workplace health
and safety. Basic areas include:
- Practical and effective Policies and Procedures tailored to your business
- Hazard and Risk Identification
- Workplace Audit
- Training
- Regular ‘toolbox’ meetings
- Keeping your business informed.
Compliance does not have to be complicated but you must take action and ensure you are operating within
the legislation.
Further Information
Philip Lye is Director of Biz Momentum Pty Ltd. He works with small to medium businesses to help
them cut through the maze of people matters. Clients get specific actionable strategies to protect their
business interests. For more information on Philip, visit www.biz-momentum.com and
subscribe to his free monthly e-zine.
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