S-x-related workers' comp claim proceeds to Federal Court; Victorian employer that overlooked cheap, safe procedure fined $80K; Workers' comp fraudster caught after advertising second job; and Rail operators urged to crack down on Kronic.
A coronial investigation into the death of a Tasmanian worker has highlighted the importance of regularly assessing the competency of staff, no matter how extensive their experience. It has also demonstrated the limited utility of personal protective equipment.
Proposed national rail safety laws, released this morning for public consultation, will slash red tape and boost OHS outcomes, according to National Transport Commission chief executive Nick Dimopoulos.
The draft model Work Health and Safety Regulations and Codes of Practice for mining have been released for public comment, but "harmonisation" appears to be a long way off for this sector, with at least four jurisdictions looking to introduce their own laws.
Regulators issue warnings on no-go zones after electrocutions; Queensland disasters expose safety gaps, but employers reluctant to invest more in OHS; Tasmania says it could amend harmonised mining laws; and WorkCover SA suspends rehab provider for misconduct.
Queensland could follow Victoria's lead and introduce jail terms for workplace bullies, the State Industrial Relations Minister has hinted in announcing the establishment of a special reference group to examine the issue.
Western Australian Mines Minister Norman Moore has dismissed as "flawed" the belief that a lack of safety inspectors is linked to workplace accidents, and has warned miners that their safety management systems will be audited regularly.
A NSW transport company has successfully relied on the High Court Kirk decision to challenge a $200,000 fine it received over the death of an employee.
