Short news items about work health and safety developments, regulator updates and practical lessons for Australian businesses.
WorkSafe Victoria is celebrating 25 seasons of supporting country football and netball clubs, reinforcing the message that safety on the field and at work go hand in hand.
Safe Work Australia has released a comprehensive consultation summary for the Best Practice Review of the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, drawing on extensive national engagement with stakeholders across industry, government and the community.
Building Commission NSW and SafeWork NSW are launching a targeted compliance and engagement blitz across the Hunter Region, focusing on construction safety, building quality and stronger oversight of WHS management systems.
Safe Work Australia is calling for industry input on proposed reforms to improve the safety of crane operations in the maritime sector, including on vessels and other dynamic marine environments.
The Minns Labor Government has significantly expanded SafeWork NSW’s inspectorate with a dedicated cohort of psychosocial inspectors, reinforcing the State’s focus on mental health, prevention of psychological harm, and stronger WHS management across all workplaces.
A Geelong builder has been fined $40,000 and ordered to pay costs after repeatedly failing to control the risk of falls from height, highlighting the critical role of robust WHS management systems and safe work method statements (SWMS) on construction sites.
A Victorian aged care provider has been fined $150,000 after admitting it failed to adequately train all employees in COVID-19 safety procedures, including the correct use of personal protective equipment.
ADCO Group Pty Ltd has entered into an estimated $850,000 enforceable undertaking following the partial collapse of structural steel at the Kew Recreation Centre redevelopment, highlighting the critical role of robust WHS management systems and quality assurance for imported steelwork.
Safe Work Australia has launched a new online version of the model Code of Practice for the healthcare and social assistance industry, delivering clearer, more accessible WHS guidance for one of Australia’s highest-risk sectors.
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.
