Short news items about work health and safety developments, regulator updates and practical lessons for Australian businesses.
Safe Work Australia has released a new stakeholder resource pack to help businesses, WHS professionals and industry bodies prepare for the transition to updated workplace exposure limits (WELs) for airborne contaminants, commencing 1 December 2026.
A major almond producer has been charged with alleged health and safety breaches following a forklift incident, highlighting the critical need for robust WHS management systems and safe work procedures around powered mobile plant.
A New South Wales gate manufacturer and installer has been fined $50,000 after a 200kg sliding gate collapsed onto a mother and her three children, highlighting serious failures in WHS due diligence and safety controls.
Two construction companies have been charged following a serious fall from a third-floor balcony, highlighting the critical importance of robust WHS management systems and effective fall prevention controls on building sites.
Victorian workplaces are being encouraged to nominate outstanding safety champions and return-to-work leaders for the 37th annual WorkSafe Awards, which recognise innovation, strong WHS management systems and a genuine commitment to reducing workplace harm.
A 34-year-old worker has died after a scissor lift reportedly contacted high-voltage overhead power lines, prompting a WorkSafe investigation and renewed focus on electrical safety and WHS risk controls.
A Victorian not‑for‑profit has been fined following the death of a supported employee who fell on a workplace stairway, highlighting the critical need for robust WHS management systems and effective control measures for vulnerable workers.
A 65-year-old maintenance worker has died after being crushed in a lift shaft during routine servicing, prompting a WorkSafe investigation and renewed focus on lift safety and WHS management systems.
Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on proposed changes to how welding activities are regulated, with the goal of improving protection for workers and others from welding-related risks.
A Victorian civil construction company has had its penalty increased six-fold on appeal, after a worker suffered life-changing injuries from an electric shock while working beneath overhead powerlines.
