Archived Articles

January

Commonwealth Work Health and Safety Act 2011 effective now
1 January 2012 marked an historic event for our jurisdiction with the commencement of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) (WHS Act) for the Commonwealth jurisdiction.
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Fair Work Act Review announced
The review of the Fair Work Act, first announced when the legislation was introduced, will be conducted by Reserve Bank Board Member John Edwards, former Federal Court Judge, the Honourable Michael Moore and noted legal and workplace relations academic Professor Ron McCallum AO, the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Bill Shorten, announced today.
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Finalists announced for Safe Work Australia Awards
Safe Work Australia Chair Mr Tom Phillips AM has announced the finalists for the 7th annual Safe Work Australia Awards and commended them on their efforts in reducing workplace death, injury and disease in Australia.
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Scientist sheds new light on keeping off the kilos
New research from the Professor behind the world’s largest weight maintenance study, DiOGenes*, has found there are further benefits to eating a low GI diet.
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Plumbing practitioners must be licensed or registered
The Plumbing Industry Commissioner, Tony Arnel, has issued a reminder to consumers and plumbers that plumbing practitioners must be licensed or registered with the Commission in a particular class or type of plumbing work before they carry out the work.
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Electricians call for safety to be a New Year’s resolution
Australia’s peak electrical industry body, the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), has called for electrical safety to be a priority in the New Year, particularly in older homes.
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December

Reducing construction injuries by 76%
Australian construction giant Grocon reduced its Total Injury Frequency Rate (TIFR) by 76% in just three years through an innovative Occupational Health and Safety management system developed and implemented in partnership with DuPont.
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Australia’s first safety ambassador of the year announced
Safe Work Australia Chair Tom Phillips AM today announced Janine Coleman as Australia’s first Safety Ambassador of the Year Award winner. Ms Coleman, a Workplace Health and Safety Coordinator from Macarthur Disability Services in NSW, has been awarded the inaugural title for her outstanding efforts in raising awareness of work health and safety.
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The new National Work Health and Safety Laws
With the national harmonised Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws due to commence on the 1 January 2012 it is timely that we pause for a moment to look at where things are at. Part of this review process is to understand how the national laws can be integrated into current work practices. Ai Group has developed and continues to develop tools to assist with this process.
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Playing games this Christmas period
It is the festive season and gaming consoles and portable devices are likely to remain popular presents for children this Christmas. While gaming can be a lot of fun for young people, there are some associated risks.
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New style welding helmets launched
Speedglas™ has just launched a new welding helmet into its Speedglas 9100 Ultimate series of welding helmets and five new styles into the Speedglas 100 Graphic welding helmet range.
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Dangers of exposure to LPG
WorkCover NSW has issued an alert to remind employers and principal contractors of the dangers of exposure to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) following the death of a worker.
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November

One billion protected hands
Glove manufacturer, Ansell, has today reached a historic milestone - the sale of its 500 millionth pair of HyFlex® gloves.
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Asbestos concerns raised
To coincide with Asbestos Awareness Week, WorkSafe is reminding employers and workers of the need to focus on good work practices to prevent people inhaling fibres.
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Release of new research report
Injury, violence and health concerns from excessive alcohol consumption on single occurrences have been generally shown to cause more problems than long term alcohol dependence.
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Lifting safety standards for heavy loads
Top-of-truck safety and load containment are key health and safety challenges in the manufacturing and distribution industries. Without appropriate safety systems, loading and unloading loads on and off tall vehicles creates risks of falls and serious injuries. Adequate and efficient load containment mechanisms are also essential to ensure workers’ safety while loading and unloading, and to secure goods in transit.
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Myosh makes its mark online
One of the more remarkable – for simplicity and comprehensiveness – examples of safety management software which was seen at The Safety Show Sydney is Myosh.
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Keep your feet protected
Shoes have an enormous and somewhat un-noticed influence on the way feet move and their protection. Steel Blue recognises the importance of foot safety and ensuring clients have the best outcome in any work environment.
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October

Insecure workers in Australia need a fairer deal
New rights that have been extended to temporary and agency workers in the UK from this month could provide a model for better treatment of insecure workers in Australia.
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Home grows support for Movember
For the third consecutive year, Home Timber and Hardware is an official supporting partner of Movember, the annual charity event responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men's faces in Australia and around the world, with the sole aim of raising vital funds and awareness for men's health.
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Fitness not fatness should be mantra
The current focus on overweight and obesity by government and health professionals is misguided, a keynote speaker said at last week’s Australian Conference of Science and Medicine in Sport.
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WorkCover launches online premium estimator
WorkCover NSW has announced an innovative new online tool to help businesses estimate their annual workers compensation costs.
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Invitation to ICCWA’s 2011 annual general meeting
All members and supporters of The Injury Control Council of WA (ICCWA) are invited to take part in the 2011 annual general meeting (AGM).
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Work Safety Awards winners lead the way in safety
The five winners of the prestigious 2011 Work Safety Awards Western Australia were announced on Friday.
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September

How to Improve Company Inductions
Research has found that on average, companies experience 47% of new hire turnover after 90 days. Poor induction is blamed for staff wanting to leave early.
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An unguarded moment can ruin your day
Lack of guarding on machinery continues to be a significant cause of workplace deaths and injuries. Guarding is required for all types of plant and equipment where there is a risk of contact with dangerous parts. This can include items as diverse as brake presses, conveyors and some office equipment.
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Have your say on work health and safety
Safe Work Australia Chair, Mr Tom Phillips AM, has announced the start of the public comment period for 15 draft model Codes of Practice which support the new model work health and safety legislation.
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Accidents: Life’s best teachers
Adventurer and near-death survivor reveals life’s most important lesson.
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Young tradesmen have a poor diet, research shows
Young apprentice tradesmen generally do not eat enough fresh food and are consuming too much junk food on the job and at home, a study of Victorian apprentices has found.
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The National Workers’ Memorial competition
The National Workers’ Memorial design competition is now accepting entries from across Australia.
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August

Rhino Safeguard series of tanks
Rhino Water Tanks announced the release of the NEW 'Rhino Safeguard' series of tanks which have taken the fire protection industry by storm.
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DMF Safety Curtain for High speed doors
High speed doors are used mostly in areas that are exposed to a high volume of forklift or pedestrian traffic flows. Therefore, safety of the operator is paramount.
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No good night's sleep with alcohol
It may help you nod off but the sleep you get after drinking alcohol is not a good one, according to new research.
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July

Calls for further safety inspections of solar panels
Peak Australian electrical industry body, the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), have shown support for the release of data by the New South Wales Government that highlighted serious defects of solar panel installations following a Fair Trading audit conducted in western Sydney.
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Having the right temperature is vital
Anyone who has ever endured a long and hot Australian summer in an office without proper air conditioning will tell you that working in our hot and sticky conditions quickly becomes unbearable. And for employers, their staff’s discomfort should be of serious consideration.
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The state’s most dangerous industries targeted
WorkSafe has launched a statewide blitz targeting the state’s most dangerous industries.
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June

Reminder on deadlines for High Risk Work licences
WorkSafe has issued a reminder to workers engaged in high risk work that they need to obtain a licence to perform that work.
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Tips to prevent angle grinder injury
A new guide on the use of workplace angle grinders has been released by WorkSafe Victoria after 31 serious workplace injuries involving angle grinders over the past 12 months. They’re among a total of 117 injuries involving grinders of all types in the past year and which resulted in workers compensation claims.
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$100,000 of worker entitlements recovered since December
With the recovery of $10,031 for four Korean tilers working in the ACT, the ABCC has now recovered more than $100,000 in wages and entitlements for workers in the building and construction industry.
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County Court appeal against sentence fails for company director
The County Court has re-imposed a conviction and fine imposed last year against the director of a Springvale construction business which failed to comply with safety improvement notices.
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Improving Motorcycle Safety - Presented by David Wright
Motorcyclists are at high risk of sustaining serious injury in road crashes, whether as a result of the actions of other drivers or lapses of their own judgement. In 2009 Western Australia experienced 34 motorcycle fatalities.
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Queensland leads way in workplace safety reforms
The Bligh Government’s commitment to worker safety has been further demonstrated with the passing of new laws that continue to provide strong protections for workers while reducing red tape for businesses.
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May

Mobile phone allergies on the rise
Dermatologists say they are seeing increasing numbers of allergic reactions to mobile phones.
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The hard data on fixing soft tissue injury
Australia's most common workplace injuries – sprains and strains – are also our most stubborn, barely having changed over the last decade but one program backed by hard data is making a difference.
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Worker responsibility under OHS law: When is it not the employer's fault?
It is not common to hold workers responsible for workplace injuries but what happens when an employee arrives to work so drunk and is injured attempting to do his work with the knowledge of co-workers?
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Nominate for Work Safety Awards Western Australia 2011
WorkSafe has called for nominations for the prestigious Work Safety Awards Western Australia 2011, recognising outstanding occupational safety and health achievement.
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Demystifying WHS
Practical know-how will be coupled with practical products and services at the Queensland Safety Show when it returns to the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from June 21 to 23.
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Road Safety benefit from increased camera funding
WA communities will benefit from the increased allocation of speed camera fines revenue to road safety initiatives.
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The great debate: urine or oral fluid drug testing
Companies across Australia continue to grapple with the choice between urine and oral fluid when undertaking workplace drug testing.
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Research shows positive attitude to hand protection
Recent research into the attitude of tradespeople to hand protection shows a high level of awareness of the need for glove use. However, despite this, the survey showed that many people still resist wearing protective gloves on the job.
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New study prompts household safety warning
One in five people are putting themselves in danger of electric shocks because of risky behaviour around the home with power tools and everyday appliances, according to a new survey.
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April

New WorkSafe campaign says unsafe work means no play
A new WorkSafe campaign targeting regional Victoria showing the direct connection between safe work and the potential impact on individuals and the people around them has begun.
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Inspection program on noise management reveals concerns
A WorkSafe inspection program on noise management in workplaces has revealed that noise remains a widespread hazard in WA workplaces.
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Podiatrists put their feet down
At the Australasian Podiatry Conference in Melbourne on 26 April 2011, Steel Blue will discuss ways and means to reduce the incidence of workplace injuries involving the foot and lower limb (estimated at one in five) with podiatrists from Australia and around the world.
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Robotics a manual handling and productivity solution
Robotics may be an ingenious solution for employers in the manufacturing sector struggling to drive down injuries associated with manual handling. That will be the message from robotics consultancy Robotize at this year's Melbourne Materials Handling show from April 5 to 7.
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Sneak peek at Safety In Action
In just a few days, the Safety In Action and Melbourne Materials Handling trade shows return to the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. More than 300 exhibitors across three acres will offer workplace safety products and services to expected crowds of around 10,000 visitors over the shows' three days from April 5 to 7.
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CFMEU Biggest Loser Competition Heats Up
The CFMEU’s ‘Biggest Loser’ health campaign continues at the Carlton Football Club ground today. The weight loss competitors will train alongside Carlton Football Club players, each receiving a gruelling session from the coaches, and tips about health and fitness from players.
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March

Inspection program on noise management reveals concerns
A WorkSafe inspection program on noise management in workplaces has revealed that noise remains a widespread hazard in WA workplaces.
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WorkSafe to appeal decision on FMG and TPI charges
WorkSafe will appeal the Magistrates Court decision to dismiss charges against Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) and its wholly-owned subsidiary The Pilbara Infrastructure (TPI) relating to the injury of workers during Cyclone George in March 2007.
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New Bunbury project to help combat the blues
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister John Castrilli have launched the ‘Combat the Blues through Arts and Crafts’ project for migrants living in the Bunbury region.
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Penalties stick in ‘blue glue’ matter
The Federal Court in Melbourne have handed down penalties totalling $110,000 on the CFMEU and four of its officials, and the CEPU and one of its officials.
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New game plan for better health
Thousands of Victorian workers at risk of chronic disease are set to benefit from a pioneering new health coaching service from WorkSafe Victoria’s WorkHealth program.
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Ship issue referred to Federal Authority
The State Government has referred allegations about pay and conditions on a ship docked at Fremantle to the Perth office of the Fair Work Ombudsman, a federal authority, as this matter falls within the federal industrial relations jurisdiction.
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February

Insulation figures kept in the dark
Australian electrical industry body, the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), said it is frustrated that the Australia Government denied another opportunity to inform people affected by the failed Home Insulation Program (HIP) about the true size of the problem.
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Australia should increase road safety targets
The National Transport Commission (NTC) has encouraged the federal government to aim higher with its road safety targets in a submission to the draft National Road Safety Strategy 2011-2020.
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Executive women facing serious ‘male’ health problems
While women are fighting for equality in the workplace and are taking on executive positions in the corporate world, there is a downside to their professional success and it comes in the form of serious health problems, once typically associated with men.
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Fall injuries prompt reminder on safe work at heights
A recent series of significant falls from height in the construction industry has prompted a reminder to ensure that safe systems are in place when working at heights.
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Inspection program targets cleaners
WorkSafe is about to begin an inspection program to look at safety standards in the cleaning industry.
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Fail to pay workers
Australian Building and Construction Commissioner Leigh Johns today confirmed the agency had commenced an investigation into alleged failure to pay workers’ agreed entitlements at a Perth building site.
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January

Right to speak up upheld in first discrimination conviction
The right of workers to speak up about safety without fearing for their jobs has been upheld in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, in the first discrimination conviction under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004.
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Dealing with asbestos realistically demands alternatives to removal
The NSW Ombudsman's appeal for a national asbestos removal program may be unrealistic in the short term but the issue must, and can be, addressed affordably experts argue.
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Leading construction industry supplier partners with AFL Club
Leading supplier of industrial and safety consumables to the Australian construction sector, Signet, this week launched its ambitious 2011 strategic expansion plans starting with the announcement of a significant partnership with the popular AFL Victorian based Richmond Football Club (Richmond FC).
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Intimidating WorkSafe inspectors comes at a cost
Two men who assaulted, threatened and intimidated WorkSafe inspectors have received suspended prison sentences after being prosecuted by WorkSafe.
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Two Vic mining companies guilty after blast puts 10 in hospital
Fines totalling $260,000 have been imposed on two gold mining companies after a December 2007 underground explosion led to 10 workers being taken to hospital after miners were exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide.
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WorkSafe delivers a knock at the door about what’s important
WorkSafe is taking a tougher approach to its calls for Victorians to value workplace safety with an emotional public awareness advertising campaign on Victorian television screens.
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November

SES volunteers recognised for making communities safer
A dedicated, long-serving volunteer from Karratha, an enthusiastic team from Mandurah and a self-starter from Bayswater were all winners at the State Emergency Services (SES) awards night.
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Minister endorses $1.5million in Coalfields Highway safety improvements
Transport Minister Simon O¡¦Brien has endorsed safety improvement works for the Roelands Hill section of Coalfields Highway, site of a double fatality earlier this year.
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Serious safety incidents a warning for workplaces
WorkSafe is calling Victorian employers and workers to ensure high safety standards are in place after a spate of serious incidents in one week.
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Cyclone contingency plans should be in place
WA’s cyclone season is upon us, and businesses throughout the North-West of the State have been reminded to ensure contingency plans are established and in operation.
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Galvanising weld fumes contained on large scale mesh machine
Working closely with an industrial filtration specialist, OneSteel Reinforcing has taken preventative action at its Sydney plant to ensure containment of welding fumes on a process line.
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Work Safety Awards winners lead the way in safety
The four winners of the prestigious 2010 Work Safety Awards Western Australia were announced on Friday night.
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October

WorkSafe investigates death of worker at Baldivis
WorkSafe is investigating the work-related death of a 45-year-old man at a plant hire business in Baldivis.
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Victorian inventers take a bow
Over the past year, inventers across Victoria have been coming up with new and different ideas to make their working day safer.
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Farm safety campaign highlights machinery guarding concerns
WorkSafe Victoria inspectors have issued more than 200 safety improvement notices in the first three months of a statewide farm safety campaign.
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Muscle and bone injuries cost Victoria nearly a billion a year
Treating workers for injuries costing little or nothing to prevent hit the Victorian community to the tune of $956 million in the last year.
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Safety spotlight on DSE after tank explosion
WorkSafe is demanding safety improvements from the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) after a fuel tank explosion last year left a worker with serious burn injuries.
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Mission to weed out unsafe work methods
WorkSafe is on a mission to weed out unsafe work practices in nurseries and garden centres.
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September

Fraud case leaves prison sentence hanging over taxi driver
A Melbourne taxi driver convicted of defrauding WorkSafe of more than $40,000 will go to jail for six months if he commits another offence in the next two years.
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Worker dies after 18 metre fall
A 48 year-old man has died after falling approximately 18 metres from a boom lift at a Wheelers Hill primary school construction site this afternoon.
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Painful patient handling injuries costing millions
Lifting and moving patients is causing hundreds of Victorian workers to suffer painful yet preventable muscle and bone injuries every year.
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Hefty fine after mine maintenance death
A mine maintenance contractor has been convicted and fined nearly half a million dollars for a ‘significant failure’ to protect its employees, following the death of a worker who was crushed by a steel beam.
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Failure to seek first aid for injured worker ‘outrageous’
A Melbourne magistrate has described the failure of a Cheltenham company to seek first aid for a worker who hit his head and later died as ‘outrageous’.
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Calling Community Safety Champions!
To launch Community Safety Month and to celebrate International Safe Communities Day, ICCWA will host the Breakfast of Champions on Friday 1 October 2010....
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August

Call for focus on machine guarding
A 34 year-old man has died from head injuries suffered while cleaning a machine at a poultry processing works in Laverton North.
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Car dealer fined $30,000 after detailer injured
An Osborne Park vehicle dealership has been fined after a car detailer was hurt when he was struck by a car driven by an apprentice without a driving licence.
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WA Safety Show on this week
Western Australia's largest workplace safety trade show, the WA Safety Show, will offer free OSH law workshops and thousands of practical safety solutions when it runs from Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 August.
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WorkSafe talks construction tactics at Bulldogs brekkie
Construction safety was on the agenda at this morning’s Western Bulldog’s coaches’ review breakfast, with the launch of a WorkSafe Victoria campaign encouraging tradies to use the right tool for the job.
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Good people are not so hard to find
A WorkSafe Victoria program to help injured workers get back to work could help solve Australia’s skills shortage.
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‘Psychologist’ to face fraud charges
A man who claims to have qualified as a psychologist during the 1980s in Yugoslavia has been committed to stand trial in the Melbourne County Court on 367 charges relating to fraud and attempted fraud against WorkSafe and the TAC.
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July

Cold storage giant fined $60,000 for forklift failings
WorkSafe Victoria has renewed its call for workplaces to separate people and forklifts, following the prosecution of a national cold storage company after a worker was hit by a forklift.
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Company director fined over underpayments
A Sydney company director has been fined $16,900 for his involvement in the underpayment of eight of his former staff.
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Workplace fatality toll a “life or death” reminder
Twenty-six Victorian workers died in the 09/10 financial year due to lapses in workplace safety, WorkSafe Victoria has announced.
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Hotel employer fined $3000 for not complying with improvement notices
A Northampton hotel employer has been fined $3000 on a total of eleven charges related to failing to display improvement notices and failing to comply with those notices.
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WorkSafe steps in to protect student safety
WorkSafe has entered into an agreement which will help protect secondary students at Victoria’s state schools from preventable injuries in woodwork, metalwork, and automotive classrooms.
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Third prosecution after apprentice burnt in workplace ‘prank’
An apprentice who set fire to a new workmate in a workplace ‘prank’ has been prosecuted by WorkSafe Victoria.
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June

Successful men’s health program expanded
A successful service to improve men’s wellbeing and personal resilience in the Wheatbelt will be expanded State-wide using funding from the Liberal-National Government’s Royalties for Regions program.
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Asbestos and contaminant removal with Negative Air Fan
Fanquip has developed a new fan technology – complete with safety monitoring system - specifically for use when handling asbestos and other substances that are harmful when airborne.
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Restaurant owners fined $6000 for not complying with notice
The two owners of a Perth restaurant have been fined for failing to guard or dispose of a dough mixer on their premises after receiving an Improvement Notice requiring that they do so.
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Tripled fine sends clear health and safety message
A health and safety fine which was nearly tripled on appeal sends a clear message to Victorian workplaces about the consequences of needlessly endangering workers, WorkSafe Victoria said.
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WorkSafe prosecution generates over half a million for charities
A WorkSafe Victoria prosecution has generated over half a million dollars for charities and emergency services - including $230,000 towards LaTrobe Valley rescue helicopter Helimed One.
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Slips, trips and falls on domestic construction sites costing millions
Slips, trips and falls on domestic construction sites* are costing the community millions of dollars a year in medical costs for injured workers.
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May

Older farmers nearly twice as likely to die on the job
Victorian farmers over the age of 60 are nearly twice as likely to die from work-related injuries as younger farmers*, WorkSafe Victoria said today.
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WA Safety Show back in August
Western Australia's largest workplace safety trade show, the WA Safety Show, returns to Perth from August 24 to 26.
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Cirlock appoints new General Manager
Australian manufacturer of Lockout / Tagout Equipment – CIRLOCK – has in June 2010 assigned the job of General Manager to Maria Burrowes. In a generational shift Maria takes over from previous manager and company founder Erik Larsen.
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Nominate for Work Safety Awards Western Australia 2010
WorkSafe has called for nominations for the prestigious Work Safety Awards Western Australia 2010, recognising outstanding occupational safety and health achievement.
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Glass prescription safety glasses outlawed
Most employers have been blind to changes to the Australian Standard for prescription eye protection, says a WA Safety Show exhibitor. The revised standard has been reinforced by a policy statement released by the WA Department of Labour Relations in February, leaving non-compliant workplaces and their employees exposed.
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Perth company fined $7260 for refusing to provide records
A Perth company and one of its directors have been fined a total of $7260 for refusing to provide the employment records of a former employee who claimed he had been underpaid.
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Life-threatening workplace incident prompts lathe safety warning
A 26 year-old Craigieburn man is fighting for his life after being struck in the head by a steel rod being shaped by a lathe.
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New Mesothelioma Registry launched
On 20 April, the Hon Julia Gillard MP, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations officially launched the new Australian Mesothelioma Registry which will be managed by a consortium led by the Cancer Institute New South Wales and including some of the leading experts in asbestos related disease in Australia.
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Confined space fans reduces cancer
Much of Australian industry has little idea that unwanted gas in confined work spaces has a two pronged negative effect.
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April

Employee fined total of $7000 for illegal forklift joyride
An employee has been fined a total of $5000 (plus $2000 costs) on three charges after she took a forklift for an illegal joyride and injured a visitor to the workplace.
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Vibration as big an OHS threat as noise
Finger pain, numbness and even gangrene are the symptoms of a serious occupational disease that strikes up to 50 per cent of hand tool users. The cause is vibration but while the impacts are well-known internationally, WA Safety Show exhibitor Noise and Vibration Measurement Systems describes its effect as a "sleeping giant" in Australian workplaces.
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Business as usual for ABCC as IR hotspots continue to burn
Victoria and Western Australia continue to be the building industry’s biggest trouble spots, based on the number of legal proceedings undertaken by the ABCC in these two states.
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Melbourne workplaces take action to prevent bullying
Preventing bullying at work was on the agenda for over 150 people who attended a WorkSafe Victoria seminar in Melbourne this morning.
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WorkSafe inspector intimidated at Lardner Park Fieldays
The alleged assault of an inspector at the Lardner Park Fieldays last Friday has prompted a WorkSafe investigation into the incident.
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Safety in Action Conference tackles a "wicked problem"
The Safety in Action Conference in April will deal with contractors and CEOs, research and change, wellness in the workplace and, for the hard-nosed, making the safety training dollar work.
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March

Safety limping along in civil construction
Over the 3 years from July 2006 to the end of June, $30 million was paid in workers’ compensation to 600 civil construction workers for lower leg injuries.
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The ABCs of safety needed for childcare workers
WorkSafe is urging Victoria’s child care centres and kindergartens to get involved in a new campaign to improve workplace safety and reduce the high number of debilitating – and preventable – musculoskeletal injuries.
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20% more expected to visit Safety In Action
Visitor registrations to Australia's largest workplace safety event, Safety In Action and Melbourne Materials Handling, are up by 20 per cent compared to this time last year.
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Resort fined $60,000 over permanent injury to worker
The owner of a Broome resort has been fined $60,000 over an incident in 2006 that left an employee permanently disabled.
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Researchers vie to reveal exciting findings at conference
Researchers will compete for cash at the new Melbourne Convention Centre during the Safety in Action Conference in April as part of a bid to stimulate OHS research.
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Using earthmoving equipment near overhead power lines?
A new WorkSafe handbook, Using earthmoving equipment near overhead electrical assets, is available online.
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February

Increased controls on asbestos removal to reduce hazards
Changes to WA’s occupational safety and health laws to ensure that only workers with the proper skills and knowledge can remove asbestos will soon come into operation.
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WorkSafe urges safety professionals to seize their place in the sun
"The harmonisation of Australia's OHS laws has given health and safety a place in the sun. How we take advantage of that is a question safety professionals need to answer." This will be WorkSafe Victoria director Stan Krpan's message to delegates gathered at the Safety in Action Conference.
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Safety work related to the terminated home insulation program
From Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts, Peter Garrett: Today I announce further details of the Government’s safety inspections and rectification work related to the terminated Home Insulation Program. As outlined in my statement on Friday, the Government is prepared to check as many houses as necessary through this process.
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January

New guide to safety
Chair of Safe Work Australia, Mr Tom Phillips AM, has announced the release of three guidance publications for the stevedoring industry -Working Safely on the Waterfront, Working Safely with General Cargo - Steel products, and Working Safely with Containers.
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Alchohol Project Grant
Healthway, in partnership with the Drug and Alcohol Office, is pleased to announce The Community Alcohol Grants Program.
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Analysis needed to reduce workplace hazard
In an effort to minimise workplace injuries on construction sites, Pro-Visual Publishing is calling all Western Australian construction workers to implement a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) with their 2010 Construction Industry Guide to Site Safety.
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Monday scorcher a workplace safety issue
Extreme temperatures forecast statewide for Monday have prompted a warning from WorkSafe for employers and workers to plan their work to minimise exposure in the hot conditions.
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Labour hire companies have OHS obligations
Industries as diverse as retail and clerical through to the meat industry, trades (including apprentices), mining, health services, local government and the gamut of professions rely heavily on the flexibility that labour hire firms offer.
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Safety resolutions needed to make Victoria safe
WorkSafe is calling on Victorian employers and workers to make a concerted effort to create safe workplaces this year.
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December

Action against disregards of demolition license
Four successful prosecutions in the courts this week have prompted a reminder from WorkSafe on the importance of demolition licences.
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Dandenong business fails injured worker
Concrete panel supplier, The Precast Company, pleaded guilty in the Dandenong Magistrates Court on Friday 13 November to failing to provide an injured worker with suitable employment as required under Victoria’s workers compensation legislation.
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Quarry company convicted after worker dies
A major quarrying company which operates in Victoria and Queensland has been convicted and fined $650,000 after the death of a worker near Melbourne in 2005.
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November

Summer holiday jobs create risks for young
Employers and workers, particularly the young are moving into the highest risk period of the year with thousands of school and university leavers entering the workforce over the next four months.
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Company fined $815,000 for health and safety breaches
A company director has been convicted and fined $65,000 for workplace health and safety breaches relating to his failure to ensure workers were properly trained and supervised.
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Remember Asbestos Awareness Week 2009
The last week of November each year is Asbestos Awareness Week. This year it's 23 - 27 November. The week serves as a reminder of the effects of asbestos and provides an opportunity to remember and support the families affected by asbestos-related diseases.
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Work related deaths in WA to decrease
Over 40,000 Western Australians were seriously injured at work last financial year, and 22 died as a result of work-related injuries.
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Company fined $36,000 over workplace injury
A Cannington printing company has been fined $36,000 over an incident in which a female employee had part of a finger amputated.
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Winners of WA Work Safety Awards announced
The six winners of the prestigious 2009 Work Safety Awards Western Australia were announced on Friday night.
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October

Utes rate as unsafe
Three imported utes have scored poorly in crash tests: the Malaysian Proton Jumbuck ute only rated a single star; while the highly anticipated Great Wall Motors SA220 and V240 utes from China received only 2 stars out of 5.
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Truckies campaign against depression
The Australian Trucking Association will be involved in Beyond Blue’s Anxiety and Depression Awareness (ADA) this month.
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New OHS laws cause debates
Comcare has welcomed the Federal Governments response to the Report of the Review of Self-insurance Agreement released last week.
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August

Campaign to improve scaffolding safety
Workplace safety authorities across Australia are undertaking a nationally co-ordinated targeted intervention campaign to improve scaffolding safety in the construction industry.
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New road safety chairman appointed
Public health expert Professor D’Arcy Holman will be the new independent chair of the WA Road Safety Council.
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Beware of dust
An inspection campaign targeting dusts, fumes and fibres uncovered that many employers are either not aware of the hazards in their workplaces or are not taking action to reduce the risks.
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June

National review into OHS laws
The Western Australian Government will accept the vast majority of the recommendations from a review into a national OHS Act.
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Margaret River workplace inspection
A WorkSafe targeted inspection programme of manufacturing workplaces in and around Margaret River has revealed the lack of guarding on machinery, unsafe operation of forklifts and little training in workplace safety issues was still of concern.
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Fatigue roadblock finds good levels of compliance
WA commercial transport workers are to be congratulated on the vast improvement in driver safety. A recent roadblock exercise at Port Hedland revealed generally good compliance with fatigue safety laws.
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April

Get a grip on safety
For more than a decade workers compensation claims for manual handling Injuries have remained rock steady. Nathan Deans looks into why such injuries are an obstinate issue in Australian workforces. Download PDF (168 KB)
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Get a competitive edge with compliance
Some companies adopt sustainability and health, safety and environment (HSE0 management for compliance purposes. Others see this as a way in which they can qualify to compete. The most enlightened companies see a strong sustainability and HSE culture as a true competitive advantage. Which type of company is yours? Vince Asdagi reports. Download PDF (182 KB)
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Ego is not a dirty word
Safety interventions based on behaviour are often regarded as the champagne of safety management. Dr Travis Kemp finds out if this an effective approach for the longer term. Download PDF (300 KB)
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Beyond the black stump, but not beyond care
Occupational stress and depression in fly in, fly out workers at remote worksites is taking its toll, but how can companies help? Phillipa Cockran reports. Download PDF (413 KB)
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Breaking the pain barrier
One in five people suffer chronic pain - pain that’s experienced on a daily basis in excess of three to six months and one in 10 will report that pain is interfering with their lives, which means it might be affecting their ability to work. Advanced Safety reports. Download PDF (101 KB)
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Talk it up
Communication can unlock the doors to a successful return to work, according to WorkCover WA. Teaming injured workers with their employers and medical practicioner’s means together they can nut out the best options. Download PDF (236 KB)
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Keep on rolling
While State and Territory authorities are responsible for co-ordinating and planning disaster response efforts, private companies can do their bit by having their own action plan to keep the business of doing business operational. Advanced Safety reports. Download PDF (262 KB)
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Model behaviour
Is there a link between business performance and a company's safety record? Research into this theory is limited, but do the tools of the learning organisation have a place in building a safety culture? Curtin University's Yang Miang Goh and Helen Brown explain. Download PDF (189 KB)
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Don't be a live wire
The electrical industry is risky. Because of this, the safety of workers is paramount. Garth Stewart, an OHS manager working in the electricity industry, sets out the key factors to meet minimum safety standards. Download PDF (303 KB)
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March

Say 'no' to dusty workplaces
WorkSafe will conduct a targeted inspection campaign on dusts, fumes and fibres in workplaces throughout April. These contaminants are responsible for a significant number of illnesses and deaths.
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Mine Safe 2009
IIR’s sixth annual Mine Safe 2009 conference on May 26-27
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Put your safety first this Easter
Drivers are being reminded that every individual has a role to play in making the roads safe this Easter long weekend.
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February

Bushfire construction standards fast-tracked
The Victorian bushfire tragedy has prompted Standards Australia to fast-track the completion of a revised Standard governing the construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas.
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Keeping newbies safe
In the past four years, 15 young WA workers have lost their lives in work-related incidents. And every day about 10 young workers are injured seriously enough to require time off.
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Blueprint for national OHS
Australia’s safety community is waiting to see how State and Territory ministers respond to the report Workplace Relations Minister Julia Gillard intends will form the basis of national laws for OHS.
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What's on
The 2009 Safety In Action Conference from March 31 to April 2 will feature speakers who are shaping the direction of business management in Australia. Among them is Barry Sherriff, who will offer insights as a member of the National Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Review Panel and Professor Michael Quinlan, author of an expert investigation into OHS management at the Beaconsfield mine.
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Safety it's written on the wall
Hang it on the office wall, keep it on show at work sites, but use it that's the word from Master Builders Association of WA which will distribute the 2009 edition of the Construction Industry Guide to Site Safety wall chart.
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Crackdown on untidy sites
Basic ‘housekeeping’ failures on building sites are costing the industry $50 million a year – enough to build 270 new homes.
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January

Safety scorecard for building sites
Safety inspections of construction sites in the State's south-west has revealed some areas of concern, like electricity use and falls, but generally good compliance standards.
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What's your cancer-aware IQ?
A new on-line national education campaign has been launched by the The Purple Boot Brigade of the Breast Cancer Foundation of WA. The Breast IQ quiz tests participants’ knowledge about breast cancer and encourages them to ‘be breast aware’ early detection saves lives. Participants completing the Breast IQ quiz before March 31, 2009, have the opportunity to win weekly prizes and a major prize of a Thailand trip for two worth $8000.
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Is the safety message getting through?
WorkSafe has issued a reminder to keep workplace safety in mind when returning to work after holidays. This follows the death last week of a 29-year-old cleaning supervisor at the Malaga Markets who was believed to have been checking a dishwasher that was malfunctioning, and he appears to have been electrocuted.
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Rescue ladder
The recently released Rollgliss rescue ladder provides a means of assisted rescue after a fall ocurred where standard fall protection equipment is in use.
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Line-up at Safety In Action conference
The 2009 Safety In Action Conference will feature speakers who are shaping the direction of business management in Australia.
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Danger time for workplace incidents is here
WorkSafe has issued a reminder to keep workplace safety in mind when returning to work after the festive season.
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December

Drive safe this Christmas
Have a fatality-free festive season – that’s the word from the White Ribbons for Road Safety campaign, which kicked off this week and will run until Monday, January 5, 2009.
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$15,000 fine over fatal fall
An employer has been fined $15,000 over the death of a man who fell from the roof of a warehouse in Fremantle. Sean Peter Sellin, trading as Sellin Engineering, pleaded guilty and was fined earlier this week for failing to provide a safe working environment.
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National manual handling campaign underway
Workplace safety and health authorities Australia-wide are joining forces to reduce manual handling injuries in the retail, wholesale, transport and storage industries.
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November

Regional Areas Improve Fall Compliance
A national inspection campaign focusing on the prevention of falls in construction has found that compliance with fall prevention legislation has improved in regional areas.
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This is How We Do It
WorkSafe has issued a plea for employers and workers to take a more active approach to workplace safety.
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IFMA Strengthens Ties to FMA Australia
The International Facility Management Association has renewed its Partners in FM Excellence agreements with the Facility Management Association of Australia and the British Institute of Facilities Management.
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October

Cyclone Season
WA’s cyclone season begins in less than four weeks and businesses throughout the north-west of the State are being reminded to ensure contingency plans are established and in operation.
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Worksafe Targets Young Workers
WorkSafe Victoria have launched a graphic new campaign aimed at Generation Y, their families and employers in a bid to reduce the rate of young workers ending up in the emergency ward at Victorian hospitals as a result of workplace injuries.
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Prefab Inspection Program
WorkSafe is currently undertaking an inspection program in the prefabricated building manufacturing industry with a view to reducing injuries and disease in the sector.
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September

Work Death Prompt Bid for Uniform Safety Laws
A staggering 8000-plus Australians die each year from work-related incidents or illnesses, Access Economics says. Another 690,000 are injured or fall sick from work-related causes.
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New Laws Protect Overseas Workers
The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, has introduced a Bill into the Senate that sets out a new framework to better protect temporary overseas workers in Australia.
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Reminder on High Risk Work Licences
WorkSafe has issued a reminder that some workers engaged in high risk work have only a few weeks in which to obtain a licence to perform that work.
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August

Tasmania’s Risk Taking Culture
Tasmania’s mining industry has identified their main safety risks as being an ageing culture and a risk-taking culture.
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Wake Up, Sleepy Head
Australian OHS authorities have been struggling for many years to address issues of fatigue in the workplace. Yawning? Rubbing your eyes? Reaching for the umpteenth cup of coffee? These are all signs and symptoms of fatigue.
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You Bully
Workplace bullying is nothing new. What’s new is the release of the associated costs of bullying to Australian businesses. Estimated between $6 billion and $13 billion a year.
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July

Charges Delivered over Cyclone George
WorkSafe will prosecute eight companies in connection with two deaths and serious harm caused to seven people during Cyclone George in March early in 2007.
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Give ‘em a Break
A transport company has been fined $35,000 for failing to ensure its commercial vehicle drivers took legally required rest breaks.
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New Plumbing Standards
The Plumbing Licensing Board have introduced a new set of pluming standards that took place earlier in July this year.
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Construction Guide for National Consistency
The Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation has produced a new safety guide to help construction companies nationwide develop a consistent approach to safety.
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Code of Practice on safe design launched
A new code of practice on the safe design of buildings and other structures - the first of its kind in Australia – has been launched at Subiaco Arts Centre.
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