The Work, Health & Safety Regulation 2011 was repealed on 1 September’17 & replaced by the Work Health & Safety Regulation 2017, which came into effect on the same day. The new regulation is essentially the same as the 2011 Regulation with some minor changes.
A Victorian business has been fined $1.130 million for failing to ensure employees wore hi-vis PPE. Tragically whilst working late at night in dark conditions, a worker was struck & killed by a forklift in 2015. The employer has since been found to have breached their safety duties.
Unfortunately workplace violence accounts for over 9% of Australia’s workers compensation claims. Workplace violence can result in both physical & psychological injuries with the age care industry being more susceptible. Providing workers support and assistance is important in minimising risk and injuries.
A NSW business on the Mid North Coast was fined $375,000 over the death of a worker in 2015. The employer pleaded guilty to a charge under Section 32 of the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011 for failing to comply with its duty under Section 19 (1) of the act.
Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) noted SafeWork Australia data identifies although tradies make up less than one-third of the Australian workforce, tradies account for 51% of serious workers compensation claims. Injuries typically require 5-6 weeks off.
A construction safety blitz has revealed many construction businesses aren’t meeting their safety obligations under current WHS legislation. SafeWork’s message is construction businesses need to do better when it comes to the safety of their workers.