COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
The Institute has a dedicated COVID-19 page to assist members here. HR Hub have developed resources regarding COVID-19 Work (Occupational) Health and Safety and Workplace Relations Considerations, including a working from home notepack. These resources are available to all members. Login and view on the HR Hub homepage under Latest Resources and Newsletters which are updated regularly.
Since publication of this note, WA passed a version of the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, which became operational on 31 March 2022. See Safe Work Australia for further information.
(Previously known as Occupational Health and Safety in the workplace)
Under the Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) legislation, previously known as Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S or OHS), an employer has a legal obligation to provide a safe workplace for its employees. This is called the employer’s ‘duty of care’, which includes a self-employed person, and extends to visitors of the employer's workplace. Employees also have responsibilities under WHS legislation. These obligations can vary from state to state according to legislation, however there are some general obligations worth noting for both employers and employees.