New codes to help make workplaces safer

WorkSafe Victoria has released new Compliance Codes that provide practical guidance to those who have duties or obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act or Regulations.

The eight codes now available are:

• Communicating health and safety across languages
• Workplace amenities and work environment
• Confined spaces
• First aid in the workplace
• Prevention of falls in general construction
• Foundries
• Management of asbestos in workplaces
• Removal of asbestos in workplaces

John Merritt, WorkSafe’s executive director of health and safety, said: “The codes were developed after extensive consultation with industry, employers, employees, governmental agencies and the community to provide greater certainty about what constitutes compliance under the OHS Act.

“The codes include practical guidance, tools and checklists to make it easier for duty-holders to fulfil their legal obligations. The codes will provide Victorian employers, workers and health and safety representatives with certainty and assistance in meeting their responsibilities.”

Copies of the Compliance Codes are available online at worksafe.vic.gov.au or by calling the Advisory Service on 1800 136 089.