Edition 49, September 2007

ACT amends Occupational Health and Safety Act

The Australian Capital Territory has introduced a range of amendments reforming its Occupational Health and Safety Act 1989.

The amendments will strengthen the Occupational Health and Safety Council provisions and offences under the Act as well as  the Dangerous Substances Act 2004.

The amendments are the first of two Bills that will comprehensively reform work safety legislation. The next Bill will repeal and replace the entire Act and provide a revised framework for work safety in the territory.

The ACT Government has been assisted in its review of the Act by the Occupational Health and Safety Council. The new legislation will address the recommendations contained in the Council's report on the Act. It also incorporates national work, through the Australian Safety and Compensation Council and Council of Australian Governments, to develop nationally consistent OHS standards and principles.

The legislation will also reflect the new governance arrangements for the delivery of occupational health and safety regulatory functions through the Office of Regulatory Services.

The ACT Government recently announced the retention of an independent Occupational Health and Safety Commissioner who will play a critical role in raising awareness within the community of occupational health and safety responsibilities, including responsibilities under new legislation.

For more information visit www.workcover.act.gov.au

Related articles:
Dangerous Goods Code available for download (Edition 64, January/February 2009)

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