New Workplace Health and Safety Regulations on the Works
Big things for workplace health and safety are coming underway. Seven out of nine State and Territory Governments have agreed that new health and safety regulations and codes of practice should be undertaken. The other two states who haven’t agreed on this issue are Western Australia and Victoria.
Workplace health and safety codes and practices are important as they serve as guidelines in ensuring that the best safety and health standards are followed. Not only do these new regulations help maintain the safety of the workers, it will also add to the success and functionality of business and economy in the country.
Senator Chris Evans, Minister of Workplace Relations, has this to say: “The vast majority of State and Territory Governments have approved these laws which will deliver tangible economic benefits and ensure that workers enjoy the same decent safety standards no matter where they live and work.” He also urges Western Australia and Victoria to give their nods of approval. He adds that, “This is fundamental economic reform which has the potential to deliver up to $2 billion per annum in productivity improvements in addition to a national benefit of $250 million per annum by cutting red tape for businesses.”
Here is a list of the model codes being undertaken:
- Abrasive Blasting
- Demolition Work
- Excavation Work
- First Aid in the Workplace
- Managing Electrical Risks at the Workplace
- Preventing Falls in Housing Construction
- Managing Risks in Construction Work
- Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals
- Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace
- Safe Access in Tree Trimming and Arboriculture
- Safe Design of Building and Structures
- Spray Painting and Powder Coating
- Preventing and Managing Fatigue in the Workplace
- Preventing and Responding to Workplace Bullying
- Welding and Allied Processes
Comments for the new workplace health and safety regulations are expected on the 18th of November 2011. The final batches of comments for these regulations are scheduled for 16th of December 2011.
According to Safe Work Australia Chairman Tom Phillips, “There are a range of draft Codes of Practice available for comment. These include broad topics including first aid and preventing and responding to workplace bullying. Specific industries like construction, excavation, and demolition work are also covered in these draft Codes of Practice.” The public discussions scheduled will be a great way for those who will be affected by the new regulations. This way, they can voice out their thoughts regarding the matter. Leading health providers that manage workplace health and safety such as CS Health and Comcare have welcomed the decision as now organisations will become more safer
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