New OHS Act

As many members will be aware there is likely to be a new OHS Act coming into effect on 1 January 2012. The new OHS Amendment Bill was introduced into NSW Parliament on 5 May 2011 and is currently under debate. This Act is the culmination of a long period of discussion between all Australian States and has the objective of bringing individual States legislation into alignment. For NSW the principles of the existing OHS Act remain the same but there are changes which will affect all employers. In particular the current employers 'defense' clause is removed and replaced with the concepts of "reasonable practicability" and "due diligence" These terms are defined in the Act and will assist employers clarify their obligations. Any modifications required to the generic documentation on the HEMSmart OHS website will be made once the legislation is finalised and notification will be placed on this website. WorkCover NSW is issuing information which is available on www.workcover.nsw.gov.au If you have any queries please contact HEM on 8251 9069 or info@hotelemployersmutual.com.au."