WHS Penalities – Cleanaway Facing $1.5M Fine

WHS Penalities – Cleanaway Facing $1.5M Fine

National Waste Management company, Cleanaway Operations Pty Ltd is facing charges of up to $1.5 million for failing to provide appropriate Work Health & Safety systems for their workers. In June 2021 a worker was injured while using a machine that is designed to compress cardboard & plastics into bales. The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) has declared the company has failed in its WHS duties.

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No SWMS $450,000 Fine

No SWMS $450,000 Fine

he case of No SWMS $450,000 Fine for ABILITY GROUP highlights the serious consequences of ignoring workplace safety compliance in Australia. Without Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), businesses risk worker safety, heavy financial penalties, and reputational damage. In this instance, failing to prepare a SWMS led to a $450,000 fine, showing regulators’ strict enforcement of Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws.

Read more: No SWMS $450,000 Fine

Liddell Power Station has four 500 MW steam generator units, each with a turbine and three transformers. In response, AGL proposed a $1.13 million enforceable undertaking featuring safety-focused initiatives.

  • Implementing a skills and competency program for workers
  • Benchmarking and tracking safety culture
  • Providing safety leadership training
  • Developing educational materials on electrical arc flash hazards
  • Promoting electrical safety awareness in the broader community
  • Supporting safety awards and initiatives in the Hunter Region
  • Conducting an independent audit program
    The undertaking was accepted as the alleged breach did not constitute a Section 31 Category 1 reckless conduct offence, which would have disqualified it.

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REFERENCE
Source: SafeWork NSW
Title: AGL Macquarie Pty Limited
Link: Prosecutions | SafeWork NSW

What’s a PCBU?

What’s a PCBU?

Work Health & Safety (WHS) terminology can be confusing & a particular phrase we get asked about is, what's a PCBU? A PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) is any entity that performs work under WHS laws. It is important to note that a PCBU can also be an individual who conducts a business or undertaking.

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WHS Negligence Fined $400,000

WHS Negligence Fined $400,000

A recent WorkSafe Victoria prosecution has highlighted the severe consequences businesses face when they fail to meet their Work Health & Safety (WHS) obligations. A crane company was fined $400,000 after a major safety breach resulted in a worker’s death and multiple injuries. This case serves as a powerful reminder of the legal and moral responsibilities held by every person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU).

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New Workplace Sexual Harassment Laws

New Workplace Sexual Harassment Laws

Australia’s workplace landscape has shifted significantly with the introduction of new workplace sexual harassment laws. These reforms impose stronger obligations on employers and underscore the need for proactive, preventive action. For organisations committed to creating safe, respectful, and compliant workplaces, understanding these changes is essential.

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Importance of WHS Plans

Importance of WHS Plans

Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) plans are essential for protecting workers, reducing risks, and ensuring organisations meet their legal obligations. No matter the industry, a well?structured WHS plan provides the framework needed to prevent incidents, support safe work practices, and create a culture where safety is prioritised every day.

For employers focused on compliance, risk management, and operational excellence, understanding the importance of WHS plans is critical.

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