Queensland business still require Workplace Health & Safety Officers
February 2010
While there has been a lot of media coverage on the national Model Occupational Health & Safety Act, CCIQ would like to remind business this new standard will not come into affect until 2012 and as a result the existing legislation still stands.
Recent discussionswith Queensland businesses across the state have identified that a number of businesses are not aware that they still require an accredited Workplace Health & Safety Officer (WHSO) if their organisation employs more than 30 people. Businesses without an accredited WHSO could face fines and prosecution if they are caught out.
A recent CCIQ survey of 700 businesses demonstrated clear advantages that accredited WHSO had provided to businesses. By having a WHSO, businesses gain valuable internal expertise on WHS issues, ensuring a constant focus and increasing awareness of these issues, and ensured they complied with their obligations under the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995.
Having a WHSO on staff is a mechanism for ensuring businesses meet their duty of care to Queensland employees.
Further information
CCIQ offers accredited WHSO training courses. For further information, or to book, please visit www.cciq.com.au/training or call 1300 138 470.
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