Appendices

Appendix G Occupational health and safety

This appendix addresses the annual reporting requirements set out for Commonwealth agencies in s. 74 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991 (OH&S Act).

Arrangements

The agency’s Health and Safety Management Arrangements were developed, approved and implemented during the year in accordance with the OH&S Act and in consultation with all employees. An OH&S Policy was established and implemented, and health and safety workplace representatives were appointed.

The OH&S Committee was established and met three times in 2008–09. The committee reports regularly to the Executive Management Group and to all staff, and publishes the minutes of its meetings on the intranet. Vacancies for health and safety representatives were filled in accordance with the OH&S Act.

Measures

The agency continued to promote a supportive working environment by providing staff access to the Employee Assistance Program. All employees and volunteers were offered free influenza vaccinations: 56 employees and volunteers chose to receive the vaccination. Three employees accepted the offer of workstation assessments.

Training was provided for health and safety representatives, first aid officers, fire wardens and harassment contact officers. Strategies and training to enhance workplace safety were implemented.

It is likely that the absence of compensation claims from staff in 2008–09 was an outcome of these measures.

Incidents and investigations

Five accidents were reported to Comcare, and one to Comcover, under s. 68 of the OH&S Act.

No investigations were carried out or notices given under ss. 29, 46 and 47 of the OH&S Act.

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