As we look forward to working with SA businesses as they reinvigorate and rebuild post-covid. Safe Work Australia has issued a statement regarding the regulator’s approach to WHS compliance during this time.
WHS Regulators acknowledge the “unprecedented pressure on industry and employers” and that they will take a “common sense and practical approach to interactions with workplaces”. However, this should not be interpreted as the WHS regulator becoming lenient when it comes to health and safety compliance. Rather, they make it clear that they expect employers to apply an appropriate risk management approach and apply available resources to controlling issues that pose “significant and/or serious risk” to the health or safety of their workers.
Covid-19 is still one of those risks, but there is now a powerful tool in the form of vaccination to assist in the reduction of this health hazard. Employers are encouraged to discuss vaccination with their employees, while, at the same time, continuing to implement safe work practices including hand hygiene, distancing, and enhanced cleaning protocols.
It is also important to undertake a review of other WHS systems and processes to ensure that they continue to be current, appropriate, and effective at eliminating, or where that is not reasonably practicable, minimising risk.
The South Australian Business Chamber has experienced consultants available to assist employers to identify, prioritise and take a practical approach to manage risk, optimising worker health and safety and maintaining compliance. Call us today on (08) 8300 000 to speak with one of our Senior Consultants.
