Short news items about work health and safety developments, regulator updates and practical lessons for Australian businesses.
Australia’s new model Code of Practice for managing biological hazards sets out practical, legally informed guidance to help PCBUs protect workers and others from exposure to viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi in the workplace. It reinforces the need for robust WHS management systems, clear policies and documented procedures to control health risks across all industries.
WorkSafe Victoria has reported a strong half-year financial result, underpinned by improved investment performance and economic conditions, while emphasising the need for continued reform to secure the long-term sustainability of the workers compensation scheme.
A Victorian poultry operator has been fined $325,000 after a worker was killed when he became entangled in an unguarded conveyor system, highlighting the critical need for robust WHS management systems and effective machine guarding controls.
Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on proposed improvements to how work health and safety (WHS) disputes are resolved under the model WHS laws, including consideration of a specialist tribunal and alternative dispute resolution options.
Two New South Wales companies have been fined a combined $590,000 after a worker suffered serious injuries in a 10-metre fall from a retail roof, highlighting the critical need for robust WHS management systems and safe work procedures for work at heights.
NSW businesses are being offered free, expert-led ‘From Risk to Respect’ workshops to strengthen primary prevention of workplace sexual harassment and meet their work health and safety duties.
The Illawarra Turf Club Ltd has been fined $200,000 in the NSW District Court after a worker sustained serious injuries in a fall through a skylight at Kembla Grange Racecourse, highlighting the critical importance of robust WHS management systems and safe work procedures for height-related tasks.
Victorian workers, employers and safety leaders have been recognised for outstanding achievements in workplace health and safety and return to work, highlighting the critical role of strong WHS management systems, SWMS and supportive policies in preventing harm and supporting recovery.
Safe Work Australia has opened public consultation on a major review of the national asbestos framework, seeking feedback on how the model WHS laws, regulations and guidance can be strengthened to better control asbestos risks and drive the prioritised removal of asbestos‑containing materials.
Hazardous manual handling remains a leading cause of workplace injury, yet most related musculoskeletal disorders can be prevented through effective WHS management systems, safe work method statements (SWMS) and well-designed work practices.
