Occupational Health & Safety PP2

What is Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S)?

A broad term covering issues, laws, and initiatives to protect workplace health and safety.

Which law protects OH&S in Victoria?

The Occupational Health & Safety Act 2004 (Vic).

What does the OH&S Act do?

• States both employers and employees are responsible for safety.

• Provides rules for compensation if injured/killed at work.

• Aims to prevent workplace accidents.

• Protects health, safety, and welfare of employees, employers, customers, and clients.

What do OH&S committees do?

• Include employees and management reps.

• Meet regularly to discuss unsafe practices.

• Ensure workplace meets OH&S laws.

What is the Hierarchy of Control?

A step-by-step method to reduce risks, ranked from most to least effective.

Levels:

1. Eliminate – remove hazard completely (e.g., trip hazards).

2. Reduce the Risk – substitute or isolate hazard.

3. Administrative Controls – safe procedures, time limits, warning signs.

4. PPE – last line, equipment worn by employees (gloves, helmets, masks).

What is the role of WorkSafe Victoria?

• Inspect workplaces to enforce OH&S laws.

• Prevent accidents and protect welfare.

• Advise workplaces on safety.

• Prosecute unsafe employers.

• Take action after accidents.

How does WorkSafe support injured workers?

• Pay medical costs.

• Organise return-to-work programs.

• Provide Workplace Injury Insurance for employers.

• Pay worker’s usual wage while off (Workers Compensation Scheme).

Why is OH&S important for workers?

Protects them from death, injury, and long-term harm.

Why is OH&S important for employers?

Avoid fines, reduce costs, attract staff.

Why is OH&S important for the community?

Customers/clients expect safety, and families don’t want harm to workers.

Why is OH&S important for the government?

They make/enforce laws, run WorkSafe, and expect compliance.

Who are the OH&S stakeholders?

• Employees – right to safe work, must follow safety + report hazards.

• Employers – provide safe workplaces, training, equipment.

• Governments – state = laws & WorkSafe; federal = national OH&S policy (Safe Work Australia).

• Unions – support workers, campaign for safer conditions.

• WorkSafe – enforce laws, investigate incidents.

• Community – expects safe workplaces as customers & family of workers.

• Clients/Customers – have right to safety while at workplaces.

• Suppliers/Contractors – must provide safe products/services.