WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY LAWS

• The revised Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws commenced 1 January 2012
• The WHS laws replaced the existing OH&S laws
• These changes affect all Australian workplaces with increased penalties
• The following states and territories now use harmonised WHS legislation instead of previous OH&S laws:
- Australian Capital Territory
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- South Australia

Most remaining states are expected to move to the new model WHS Act by the start of 2013.

What you need to do.

Ensure you have documented safe systems of work in your workplace.

Members can obtain assistance via the following organisations:

SPASA NSW – SPASA NSW has developed a WHS Management Handbook to assist those involved in the swimming pool industry to meet their obligations under the requirements of the WHS Act and Regulation. It includes information to assist members to adequately document risk assessment and risk management strategies.

Cost is $120 for members and $150 for non members.

WORKCOVER NSW – Members can download a Small Business Safety Starter Kit from the WorkCover NSW website for free. This kit has been designed to assist small employers ie those with 20 or less employees, to comply with new OHS legislation in NSW.

Workcover has also developed a live and pre- recorded Webinar which covers key topics in the new work health and safety legislation.

SAFETY INSTITUTE OF AUSTRALIA –The Safety Institute of Australia Ltd is Australia’s professional body for health & safety professionals. With over 60 years experience, and a membership of over 4,500, the SIA aims to develop, maintain and promote a body of knowledge that defines professional practice in OHS.

Web: www.spasa.org.au