Workplace health and safety legislation updates, compliance guidance and practical information for Victorian and Australian employers and businesses.
Measuring and Reporting WHS Performance Many organisations only focus on workplace safety after an incident occurs. However, effective Work Health and Safety (WHS) systems require organisations to actively measure, monitor and report on safety performance before injuries and illnesses happen. Evidence of prevention is the key. The Safe Work Australia report Measuring and Reporting on […]
How to identify and control health and safety hazards in small businesses to make them safer.
Workplace Psychosocial Hazards
Introduction Psychological health is no longer a “grey area” in workplace safety—especially in Victoria. With the introduction of the Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations 2025, Victoria has now moved much closer to the harmonised Work Health and Safety (WHS) model used across most of Australia. For small businesses and not-for-profits, this is a […]
But the real question is: 👉 Are you confident your business is fully compliant? Does your business employ staff or engage contractors? If so, you have clear legal responsibilities under the WorkSafe Victoria framework to ensure a safe and healthy workplace. Many small and medium businesses believe they are meeting their obligations—until an incident, inspection, […]
Prepared by OHS & HR Management Systems Pty Ltd. Based on With the exception of notifiable incident records (5 years), the Victorian OHS Act and Regulations generally do not prescribe specific retention periods in years. Instead, they require records to be kept, maintained and made accessible. 7-year retention period is a general recommendation. This is […]
Workplace Psychological Health Survey Tools and practical consultation methods for Victorian Workplaces From 1 December 2025, employers must actively identify and control psychosocial hazards under the new Psychological Health Regulations administered by WorkSafe Victoria.This include the need for psychosocial consultation. A key legal requirement and initial step towards compliance is consultation with employees when identifying […]
Designed for Small Businesses in Victoria. Based on WorkSafe Victoria 2025 Psychological Health Regulations and Compliance Code. Detailed requirements: https://ohsmanagementsystems.com.au/2025/10/02/psychological-health-at-work-in-victoria-a-simple-guide-for-small-medium-businesses/ Workplace Psychological Health Compliance Planning Checklist – Victoria Also, here is a very simple survey that WorkSafe Victoria provide on their website to help comply with the “Consultation” actions. WorkSafe Victoria “Employee Engarement Survey” 26/3/26 […]
A strong safety induction isn’t optional in Australia—it’s a legal requirement and a critical first step in protecting workers, preventing incidents, and meeting Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations. According to Safe Work Australia, employers must train workers before they start work so they become familiar with their tasks, workplace environment, and the hazards around […]
Workplace noise hazards are a significant health and safety issue in many industries, from manufacturing and construction to hospitality and retail. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can lead to serious health problems, including hearing loss, tinnitus, stress, and reduced productivity. In Victoria, Australia, the Compliance Code for Noise provides detailed guidance on how to manage […]
When it comes to workplace safety, especially in industries involving significant physical labour, manual handling is a major concern. Many organisations emphasize training workers on proper lifting techniques, believing this will mitigate the risks associated with manual handling. However, while training is crucial, it is only one part of a comprehensive approach to managing manual […]
Meeting Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) obligations is a critical responsibility for all businesses, including small businesses and not-for-profit organisations. However, with limited resources, it can be challenging to implement comprehensive safety measures. Here’s a guide on how to effectively manage OHS obligations without straining your budget. 1. Understand Your OHS Obligations and OHS Compliance […]
Understanding WHS, OHS and PCBU meaning: An Essential Guide to Australian Safety Terminology
Are you meeting your OHS obligations under OHS Legislation? Do a quick check of your OHS Management Systems now, complete this free survey and check your score: SafetyMAP Diagnostic Quiz Get your OHS health check now and plan for the next 12 months A ½ day site visit includes review of your documentation, observation and […]
The Compliance code for Workplace facilities and the working environment focuses on ensuring that employers provide safe and suitable facilities for their employees. This includes areas such as toilets, rest areas, drinking water, and temperature control. The code emphasizes the importance of maintaining cleanliness, hygiene, and accessibility in these facilities. It also addresses the need […]
In today’s digital age, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to streamline their operations and enhance employee onboarding processes. One such solution gaining popularity is the development of online inductions. This article will explore the top 10 reasons why your business should consider implementing an online induction program. Conclusion:Developing an online induction program offers numerous […]
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations are crucial for ensuring the well-being of employees in the workplace. In recent years, the focus on workplace safety has extended beyond physical hazards to include psychosocial hazards, which can have a significant impact on employees’ mental and emotional health. In Victoria, Australia, there has been growing anticipation regarding […]
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the significance of mental health in the workplace. As our understanding of mental health deepens and societal attitudes evolve, organisations are placing greater emphasis on supporting the psychological well-being of their employees. One powerful tool that has emerged in this context is Workplace Mental Health […]
WorkSafe Victoria and the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) have recently released new guidance on this topic. In Victoria, sexual harassment has previously been covered by the Equal Opportunity Act 2010, and was not seen at an OHS hazard. Now that WorkSafe is providing guidance, it is most definitely seen as an […]