> Workplace exposure thresholds halved in WA; > KFC operator failed to provide safety supervision; and > Did you miss OHS Alert's latest quarterly update?
Information-exchange laws that help WHS regulators target employers exposing workers to existing and emerging occupational health risks have passed NSW Parliament, with important amendments. NSW has also made regulations for injured workers whose earnings are affected by COVID-19.
The NSW WHS Act will be amended to impose new duties on PCBUs that "provide food delivery services", if an Opposition Bill (which forms part of a broader safety strategy for gig workers) passes Parliament. Meanwhile, Tasmanian employers have been told to "stay COVID safe" as border restrictions ease.
Western Australia has taken a critical step closer to implementing industrial manslaughter laws and joining the harmonised WHS regime, with its Work Health and Safety Bill 2019 passing the Upper House with amendments last night.
> New dangerous goods offences and mine rules made in NSW; > Dangerous goods changes and penalties commence in WA; and > WA's presumptive COVID-19 protections take effect.
The South Australian Greens have reintroduced a Bill to create a new offence of industrial manslaughter, but with a maximum fine of $13 million, well above the $1 million it proposed last year.
> COVID face coverings can create new work risks, regulator warns; > "Second line of defence" prescribed for Qld mines; > Employers reminded of new quad bike safety standards; and > New online system helps WHS notifications in Tas.
