The Workplace Health and Safety Act of 1995

The Workplace Health and Safety Act of 1995 protects Queensland, Australia's work force in the performance of their duties by preventing workplace death, injury or illness. The Act provides work-site safety requirements that minimize an employee's risk and establishes a framework for employers to execute measures and protect employee health and safety. Employers must abide by the regulations outlined within the Act or adopt an alternative strategy that results in the same protection for employees.

Consultation

• The Workplace Health and Safety Act of 1995 recommends consultation as a strategy to achieve work-site health and safety. Employers accomplish this goal by establishing workplace health and safety boards and committees and by including employees and safety representatives on the health and safety committees. Consultation requires forums for discussion and interaction between employees and individuals in control of work processes.

Management Obligations

• The 1995 Act obliges the owner or persons in control of the workplace to ensure employee safety at every level of the organization. They must design structures and work spaces that adhere to high levels of safety and promote employee safety and health as a priority. This obligation extends to the company's clients and principal contractors and there are specific disciplinary actions and penalties for non-compliance.

Employee Obligations

• Employees must comply with all directions, instructions, policies and procedures to ensure workplace health and safety. Employees must never willfully place themselves or anyone else at risk of injury or illness in the workplace. The Act dictates specific disciplinary actions for non-compliance.

Corrections

• If a company owner, manager, employee or other person causes any issues that may increase the likelihood of injury or illness, immediate corrective actions and notices must be implemented. Penalties and consequences result when disciplinary actions and improvements are not implemented according to prescribed guidelines.

Committees

• According to the Act, an employer may establish a workplace health and safety committee voluntarily or at the request of a health and safety representative.The committee fosters cooperation and communication between the employer, employees and principal contractors to ensure workplace health and safety. This committee does not relieve the business owner of obligations to ensure a safe and healthy work environment.

Amendments

• On June 25, 2010, minor technical amendments were made to the Workplace Health and Safety Act. These amendments ensure the efficient and effective operation of Queensland's health and safety arrangements.