Safety In The Workplace
www.safetyintheworkplace.com.au
This is used by looking up each section in the identified Legislation WHS Act 2011 & WHS Regulations 2011, BFSR 2008, ESR 2008, WCR Act 2003 & WCR Regulations 2003 A more detailed explanation would be covered in an Audit and Consultation that we can provide
Standard Legislative Requirements for General Business Introduction Summary: If only the Safety Laws could be summarised in one simple sentence; “Looking after others is looking after yourself” The Legislation sections that follow this introduction are the standards of safety that majority of businesses must abide by. As this list can be a little overwhelming we have provided six important safety points to get you started. 1. Each business must take the time to identify hazards and risks that would affect any workers. They must then do something about it……The new Work Health Safety Act 2011 determines that you are personally liable for anybody who does any work for you, anywhere. This includes contractors, labour hire etc. There is a possible $300,000 fine or 5 years imprisonment (and/or imprisonment in NSW) for failure to do so…….. 2. There is a legal process for risk control called the “Hierarchy of Controls” (see WHS Regulation s35 following). You must attempt to eliminate the risk first and if elimination is not possible, then, and only then, place controls to minimise the risk …. a. For example, you have identified that a workplace is noisy, or even simply has trip hazards on the office floor such as power leads. The law states you must try to eliminate the risk FIRST (ie noiseless machines and get rid of the leads), then try to reduce it (ie mufflers on the noisy machine and covers for the leads) and then if all other attempts have been made you must supply the correct PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as earplugs for the noise and new anti-trip shoes for the leads (if at all possible)…. b. Personal Protective Equipment is your LAST choice/option. . 3. Each business must have an Emergency Plan which includes a list of must haves such as first aid, communication for workers etc. 4. Each business must have a Fire Plan, practice an evacuation and learn about some Fire Fighting equipment/techniques. A Fire Safety Advisor is required for a business with 30+ workers. There are too many fines to list for non-compliance. 5. Each business must provide electrical testing of equipment used. You will need to read the sections I have outlined to see which requirements suit your particular type of business. 6. Insurance should be considered and a Return To Work Coordinator may be necessary. For assistance on how to use this guide or for any other information contact me either by email jon@safetyintheworkplace.com.au or on my mobile 0466 726965.