New WHS laws for WA

In a recent media release, the Western Australian government announced that the state's new Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws are set to begin on 31 March 2022 and mark a "national first," bringing general industry, mines, and petroleum operation under a single Act.

The government has said the new laws would modernise Western Australia's outdated workplace safety laws, which were over 30 years old and would recognise modern work relationships such as subcontractors and gig economy workers.

In line now with most other Australian states, the new 'harmonised' laws integrate the concept of a 'person conducting a business undertaking' (PCBU) which would mean any employer or entity that engages a WA worker has a legal obligation to protect their health and safety.

To reflect the social obligations and responsibilities the community now expects from companies and senior management, the new laws also introduce industrial manslaughter laws, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $5 million for an individual, and a $10 million fine for a body corporate.

According to the McGowan government, insurance can no longer cover penalties, ensuring that persons conducting a business or undertaking are held accountable for their actions and are individually responsible for financial penalties.

In comments by the Industrial Relations Minister, "The new Work Health and Safety Act provides all workplace participants to review their health and safety practices and make a new commitment to ensure all their staff are happy and healthy at work."

SafetyDocs provides comprehensive safety management systems and SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements) that will help keep Western Australian businesses safe and compliant with the new laws. Our systems are easy to use, and our team of experts is always available to help you out.

You can rest assured knowing that our systems are up-to-date with the latest regulations, so you can focus on what's important – running your business.