To support the WSH framework, the Workplace Safety and Health Act (WSHA) was enacted in 2006. It emphasises the importance of managing WSH proactively by requiring stakeholders to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure the safety and health of persons affected by the work being carried out.
FOUR KEY FEATURES OF WSHA
1IT PLACES THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR WORKPLACE SAFETY ON ALL STAKEHOLDERS ALONG LINES OF CONTROL AT THE WORKPLACE
2IT FOCUSES ON WORKPLACE SAFETY & HEALTH SYSTEMS AND OUTCOMES, RATHER THAN MERELY ON COMPLIANCE
3IT FACILITATES EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT THROUGH THE ISSUANCE OF REMEDIAL ORDERS
4IT IMPOSES HIGHER PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE AND RISKY BEHAVIOUR
WSHA also assigns liability to those who create and have management and control over workplace safety and health risks.
THE STAKEHOLDER GROUPS INCLUDE
Occupiers: who occupy or have control over the management of the workplace
Manufacturers or suppliers: of machinery, equipment or hazardous substances used at the workplace
Employers: who employ the service of any person to do work
Owners, installers or erectors: of machinery for use at work in the workplace
Principals: who engage another person other than those under a contract of service to either supply labour or to do any work for gain or reward
Self-employed persons: who work but are not under a contract of service
Persons at work: includes employee, i.e., one employed under a contract of service, volunteer or any other person training or working under the employer such as an industrial attachment student
