Employers in the construction and landfill industries and other high-risk sectors will be targeted under a NSW plan aimed at reducing the risk of asbestos-related diseases.
A coronial inquiry into the "freak" death of a Queensland woman, who was struck by a projectile while walking near a worksite, has highlighted how important it is to refer to manufacturers' manuals - instead of relying solely on personal experience - to reduce safety risks.
Employers must review and audit their safety rules continuously - not just when an injury occurs, the NSW Industrial Court has stressed in ordering an employer to pay $135,000 in fines and costs.
Commonwealth employers that fail to provide suitable duties to rehabilitating workers will face fines, and workers' comp payments will be reduced after 13 weeks, under a plan to "shift" the distribution of benefits that apply under the SRC Act.
A Tasmanian electrician who lost two teeth in a punch-up on a work trip has failed in his bid for workers' compensation, after a tribunal found he started the fight.
Regulator explains how to reduce EWP and slip risks; Lack of support for ACT injury-reduction plan a "setback" for workers; New national maritime safety regulator to operate from July; and FWC appoints new vice presidents.
Safe work procedures developed for machines must specify what workers should do, as well as what they shouldn't, the South Australian Magistrates Court has noted in fining an employer for OHS breaches.
Middle managers will be put through "culture change" training programs under a plan to improve safety in the construction sector, according to the Master Builders Association's official response to the ACT construction-industry inquiry.
In the lead up to the busy Easter holiday period, and in light of a recent fatality, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland is urging employers to ensure safe practices are in place at roadwork sites. It also advises employers to reduce the risks of psychological injury through supervisory support and other measures.
