A groundbreaking international study has confirmed that occupational exposure to diesel engine exhaust can cause cancer. Meanwhile, the NSW EPA has announced plans to require coal mines to develop best-practice ways to cut diesel emissions.
An employer has been convicted of OHS breaches after one of its supervisors identified a hazard but failed to tell anyone or implement control measures, and a worker was subsequently struck by falling coal and seriously injured.
NSW's mirror WHS Regulation has been amended to make it more consistent with the model Regulations, to give WorkCover the power to issue on-the-spot fines for certain asbestos-related offences, and to increase prescribed fees.
A NSW employer has committed to improving the literacy and numeracy of staff, to ensure those who speak English as a second language and others know how to report hazards and respond to emergencies, as part of a $385,000 enforceable undertaking.
The NSW Coroner has outlined how practical jokes played on a young apprentice during his employment with a major company significantly contributed to his depression and subsequent suicide.