Industry News
Revised ISO toy safety standard released
The improved ISO 8124-1:2012, Safety of toys - Part 1: Safety aspects related to mechanical and physical properties, has been released just in time for Christmas. [ + ]
Tree company fined after worker left hanging
A tree lopping company was convicted and fined $15,000 following an incident in which an employee was knocked unconscious and left hanging from a tree. [ + ]
Programs to reduce workplace stress
Three online e-learning programs to help workers and employers understand and deal with workplace depression and anxiety have been launched by beyondblue. [ + ]
SBS mining series to be released
Dirty Business: How Mining Made Australia explores how this industry has shaped Australia in unexpected and extraordinary ways and how it has influenced the nation. [ + ]
Hairdressers reluctant to claim compensation
According to a recent study, a large number of hairdressers are not claiming workers compensation after suffering from occupational contact dermatitis. [ + ]
SA aligns to other states’ work health and safety legislation
South Australia’s work health and safety legislation will align with that of the other states in January. [ + ]
Cylinder safety a hot issue this summer, says BOC
BOC said summer signals an important time for gas users to sharpen their focus on safety protocols, particularly with the use of compressed gas cylinders. [ + ]
Risk management program improves safety on mine sites
UQ researchers are developing an online database that provides a body of knowledge on managing mine site risks. [ + ]
One injured every 18 minutes
According to WorkSafe Vic, one worker is injured every 18 minutes at workplaces around the state. [ + ]
Proposal for two new VPs must be rejected, according to AMMA
National resource industry employer group the Australian Mines and Metals Association (AMMA) has urged the Senate to reject the Fair Work Australia president’s proposal to appoint two new vice presidents to statutory roles on the tribunal. [ + ]
Be safe when working in hot weather
WorkCover NSW is warning workers to take precautions during the coming week with the Australian Bureau of Meteorology predicting hot weather conditions in NSW. [ + ]
Oral drug testing now certified
Workplace drug testing has just become easier for safety-sensitive industries, according to Medvet, Australia’s leading supplier of drug and alcohol screening programs. Its Medvet Oral7 has recently been independently certified as an oral fluid testing device in Australia. [ + ]
Task force to target glass industry
A WorkCover NSW task force will commence visits to glass manufacturing businesses in an effort to improve safety in the industry. [ + ]
Elliotts expands its Brisbane and Fiji facilities
Elliotts has recently invested in more staff and machinery in both its Brisbane and Fiji facilities and has added to existing manufacturing and design capabilities to provide customised safety apparel, made to suit each worksite and its individual requirements. [ + ]
IR legislation passes Senate
Three Bills passed Senate on fair work and entitlements: the Fair Work Amendment Bill 2012, the Fair Entitlements Guarantee Bill 2012 and the Fair Work Amendments (Transfer of Business) Bill 2012. [ + ]