SafeWork NSW has begun its largest review in decades into workplace health and safety codes of practice.
Employers and workers across the State will be invited to share their feedback on the first five of 20 work health and safety (WHS) codes of practice that pre-date modern workplace health and safety legislation.
Some of the codes have not been updated in 30 years and include working with overhead protective structures or the safe handling of timber.
In a statement, SafeWork NSW said codes of practice were practical guides to achieving the standards of health and safety required under WHS legislation.
“The review acknowledges the evolving nature of industries and emerging technologies, and it is crucial the codes reflect changing work arrangements,” SafeWork said.
“While codes of practice are not laws, each is intended to help employers and workers understand the importance of a safe and healthy workplace. Codes must remain clear, coherent, and current to be effective.”
SafeWork NSW urged workers, employers, and industry experts to take part in the review’s community consultations to help develop policy which had a meaningful impact on everyone.
The first five codes under review include work near overhead power lines; tunnels under construction; collection of domestic waste; safety in forest harvesting operations; and moving plant on construction sites.
Submissions close on 19 June and additional consultations for the remaining codes are planned throughout 2023 and next year.
