Key changes nowin or coming in

Most workplaces will be affected
by a number of changes to
workplace safety and health laws
covered by the Occupational
Safety and Health Act.

Some are already law, while others will come into
effect soon.

Some have broad across-the-board implications,
while others are specific reforms addressing
particular issues of concern in certain industries
and circumstances.

Of these changes, the introduction of Provisional
Improvement Notices, changes to arrangements
for safety and health committees and electing
safety and health representatives, are likely to
be the most noticeable in the largest number
of workplaces.

These changes come into effect on 4 April.

Giving trained and qualified safety and health
representatives the power to issue PINs if they
believe there is a breach of the Act or regulations
will make their role more effective.

Importantly, it will tackle and resolve safety issues
more quickly.

Changes to ways that safety and health
committees are formed and representatives are
elected, are aimed at improving consultation and
action between employers and employees.

A further change that came into effect on 1 January
this year relates to penalties for minor offences
under the Act and regulations. Instead of a fine,
offenders can now opt to give an undertaking to
make long-term improvements in the workplace
with greater benefits to all parties.

Other changes already in force cover the Duty of
Care for labour hire agencies to ensure the safety
of workers, and employers’ obligations
concerning risk-free residential accommodation
in a limited range of circumstances, such as in
remote areas.

In addition to the information in this issue of
SafetyLine, WorkSafe has already begun
distributing easy-to-understand WorkSafe
Bulletins to explain the changes.
The Bulletins are also available online:
www.safetyline.wa.gov.au