What are Workplace Exposure Limits (WEL)? Workplace Exposure Limits (WEL) are the maximum concentrations of airborne contaminants (dust, fumes, vapours, gases, mists) that a person can be exposed to in the workplace without suffering serious or long-term harm. Starting 1 December 2026, WEL will officially replace the current Workplace Exposure Standards (WES) in Australia. While...

Unpaid Parental Leave Under the National Employment Standards Under the Fair Work Act 2009, the National Employment Standards (NES) provide a minimum entitlement to unpaid parental leave. Specifically: Employees (including those in a de facto or same-sex partner relationship) who have completed at least 12 months’ continuous service with their employer are entitled to up...

When an employee is involved in a motor vehicle accident while driving a company car, one of the most common questions that arises is: who pays the insurance excess? The answer depends on several factors — including company policy, employment contracts, and the circumstances of the accident. Understanding the Insurance Excess An insurance excess is...

Managing Risks During Disruption There are a broad range of risks that can disrupt business operations—natural disasters (bushfires, floods, cyclones), cyber-attacks, pandemics, supply chain interruptions, and geopolitical tensions. Effective business continuity and crisis management are crucial to mitigating the impacts of these risks. Below is a comprehensive overview of how businesses can manage risks during...

Why a National Approach is Essential Psychosocial hazards are now recognised in every Australian jurisdiction under WHS laws, with specific Codes of Practice and regulator guidance in place. While terminology and commencement dates vary between states and territories, the core duties are consistent: Identify psychosocial hazards Assess the associated risks Implement effective control measures Review...

Risk assessments in high-risk industries are often under increased scrutiny due to the significant potential consequences of failing to identify, evaluate, or mitigate risks properly. While these industries rely heavily on risk assessments to guide decision-making and ensure safety, several factors have drawn more attention to their effectiveness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness. Here’s why risk assessments...

Worksites of all kinds often involve the constant movement of people, vehicles, and machinery. Where there’s movement, there’s risk. That’s why a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) is essential in maintaining a safe, efficient, and legally compliant environment. What Is a Traffic Management Plan? A Traffic Management Plan is a formal document that outlines how traffic—whether...

The Ethical Crossroads Facing Modern Workplaces We’re living in an era of unprecedented connectivity. Smart cities, 5G towers, AI-driven risk prediction, wearable tech, facial recognition—the modern workplace is rapidly transforming through technology. But amidst all this progress, one question becomes louder: When does safety innovation cross the line into surveillance? Are We Becoming “E-Tag Rats”?...

Modifications to plant and equipment guards should not be made without proper assessment and approval due to several legal, safety, and compliance reasons. Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and associated regulations, employers must ensure that machinery and equipment are safe for use. Modifying guards may create...

Safety Data Sheets (SDS), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), provide detailed information about the properties, handling, storage, and risks associated with chemicals or substances. These documents are crucial for workplace safety, as they offer essential guidance on how to safely manage hazardous materials. Workplaces must review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) regularly to...

Creating a safe and supportive work environment is key to employee well-being, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Here are some key strategies for fostering such an environment: Clear Communication and Transparency Open Dialogue: Encourage employees to speak up if they have concerns, and make sure they feel heard and respected. Create channels where feedback is...

Work health and safety (WHS) data reporting is essential for tracking workplace safety, monitoring risks, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. It involves gathering, analysing, and sharing information related to the safety and well-being of employees, as well as any incidents or hazards in the workplace. Here are some key components typically included in WHS...