Victorian OHS regulations 2007 commence

Victoria's Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007 came into operation on 1 July. This single regulation replaces Victoria's 13 separate OHS regulations covering specific hazards, OHS issues and hazardous industries.

The new regulations were mostly translated from existing regulations. In keeping with the move towards nationally consistent safety laws, they also incorporate changes in key areas so Victoria's approach reflects national standards. This involved some new obligations for employers and workers who engage in high-risk work.

Together with the modernised Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (the OHS Act), the streamlined OHS regulation will make it easier for employers and workers to understand their safety obligations, while cutting red tape and compliance costs.

New minimum standards for the construction industry in the regulations are modelled on an approach led by the commonwealth government under the national standard for construction.

A national standard for licensing the performance of high-risk work will bring Victoria into line with other states and enable the free flow of skills across borders. Incorporating photo identification and introducing renewal periods will strengthen protection against fraud, which has been an issue in other states.