Safe Work Australia has invited comment on proposals to change the model laws on workplace health and safety following an independent review.
The review, carried out by Marie Boland, found that the Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws were operating as intended, but identified some areas where stakeholders were experiencing confusion or considered the laws to be overly complex.
Chief Executive of Safe Work Australia, Michelle Baxter said Ms Boland’s review made 34 recommendations.
She said these included introducing regulations dealing with psychological health; new arrangements for health and safety representatives (HRSs) and work groups in small businesses; and clarifying workplace entry of HRS assistants and WHS entry permit holders.
The review also recommended providing HRSs with a choice of training courses; providing a process for resolving disputes about WHS issues; including gross negligence as an element of the Category One offence; and introducing an industrial manslaughter offence.
“Safe Work Australia now invites interested stakeholders to consult on the review recommendations,” Ms Baxter said.
“I encourage everyone who may be affected by the recommendations to provide feedback. Your input will play an important part in deciding how the model work health and safety laws may be improved,” she said.
Written submissions are due by 5 August and Safe Work Australia has set up a consultation page with information and details on how to take part.
The 195-page report on the review can be accessed at this PS News link and the consultation page issued by Safe Work Australia can be accessed at this link.
