The first ThinkSafe issue of 2021 has been released by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). It is available here. The issue provides information on the progress of the new work health and safety laws in WA, and supplies links to the webinars and supporting videos from the 2020 Safe Work Month events.
DMIRS has also released its latest quarterly performance snapshot:
Safe Work Australia – Review of Workplace Exposure Standards
Safe Work Australia (SWA) is currently evaluating more than 700 existing Workplace Exposure Standards (WES) as part of a large project. SWA has been releasing the draft proposed WES in batches for public comment, with Release 15 (Paraffin wax and others) including a proposal for welding fumes and sulfur dioxide, among other products.
The CME team are currently working with members to collate feedback on the SWA-proposed WES reports to ensure the standards are based on the highest quality evidence and supported by a rigorous scientific approach, which can also be implemented in practice.
National Dust Disease Taskforce – Consultation Report
A second phase of consultation took place following the release to the Commonwealth Minister for Health of the National Dust Disease Taskforce’s Interim Advice on the prevention, early identification, control and management of occupational dust diseases in Australia – in particular accelerated silicosis. CME’s submission is available here.
The advice and feedback provided by stakeholders has informed the development of its Final Report. The Department of Health engaged Hall and Partners Pty Ltd to summarise discussions throughout Phase 2 Consultations. The report is available here.
Contact: Laila Nowell, Policy Adviser – Safety, Health and Wellbeing
Email: L.Nowell@cmewa.com
