Safe Work Australia has published an updated work health and safety (WHS) checklist to assist businesses in developing comprehensive safety strategies with ease and to understand their duties in guaranteeing employee safety.
For those designated as a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), it is important to understand your duties in guaranteeing employee safety. One fundamental aspect of this duty is consultation – PCBUs must engage with workers, health and safety representatives, and other duty holders to effectively manage WHS risks.
The newly published checklist by Safe Work Australia aims to empower PCBUs by offering a clear roadmap for consultation processes. This user-friendly tool can be downloaded for easy reference and implementation here.
The checklist serves as a valuable resource for PCBUs, aiding them in determining when consultation is required, how to engage effectively with stakeholders, and identifying areas where knowledge and practices may need strengthening. Ultimately, it streamlines the process of creating and implementing an effective WHS strategy that aligns with legal requirements.
For those seeking further guidance, Safe Work Australia recommends downloading the Model Code of Practice: Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation, and Coordination, as well as the Worker Representation and Participation Guide. These resources provide comprehensive insights into the principles of consultation and cooperation, ensuring that workplaces remain safe and compliant.