New Workplace Exposure Limits: What’s Changing and Why It Matters
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...
Parental Leave and the Introduction of the Fair Work Amendment (Baby Priya’s) Act 2025
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...
Who Pays the Insurance Excess on a Company Vehicle?
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...
Business Continuity and Crisis Management
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...
Implementing Psychosocial Risk Controls: A National Strategy
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...
Why Risk Assessments Are Under Scrutiny In High Risk Industries
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...
The Importance of a Traffic Management Plan
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...
Smart Safety or Digital Domination?
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”?...
