Safe Work Australia opens consultation on the draft model Code of Practice for Managing Fatigue Risks in the workplace

Safe Work Australia is developing a model Code of Practice to help Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) address and manage workplace fatigue risks, and has now opened consultation on the draft.

Safe Work Australia consultation on this draft model Code of Practice for Managing Fatigue Risks invites feedback from anyone involved in workplace health and safety across Australian industries.

What the Draft Model Code Covers

The federal safety agency says this draft model code has been created with assistance from Safe Work Australia Members and various safety regulatory authorities. It sets out practical guidance for identifying, assessing and managing fatigue as a workplace hazard, complementing existing resources such as the model Code of Practice for managing risks of plant in the workplace.

Fatigue remains a significant safety risk in sectors involving shift work, long hours or physically demanding tasks. Left unmanaged, workplace fatigue can contribute to reduced concentration, slower reaction times and increased likelihood of incidents on site.

Why Safe Work Australia Is Requesting Feedback

To facilitate development of the model code, Safe Work Australia is requesting diverse perspectives on the draft before it becomes finalised guidance.

“Safe Work Australia welcomes submissions from all interested stakeholders, including duty holders, regulators, government agencies, unions, workers, legal professionals, researchers, members of the public and other parties,” says the federal safety agency.

This open approach mirrors previous consultation processes, including those undertaken for the model Code of Practice addressing silica dust risks and the model Code of Practice for tower cranes.

Key Submission Details

• Deadline: 11:59pm, November 27, 2024
• Open to: duty holders, regulators, unions, workers, researchers, legal professionals and the public
• Purpose: shaping final guidance on managing fatigue risks in workplaces nationwide

Supporting Safer Workplace Practices

Businesses reviewing fatigue-related hazards alongside broader safety obligations may find it useful to pair this consultation with existing health and safety resources, such as mental health policies and plans, manual handling safe work method statements, or a workplace hygiene safe operating procedure.

For more information or to view the draft model code, visit the Safe Work Australia website.