Overview of Work Health and Safety Regulation
As a worker in the agriculture, forestry, or fisheries sector, it's crucial to be aware of the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011, specifically Chapter 6. This regulation plays a pivotal role in outlining how potential risks associated with construction work must be effectively managed.
Determining Construction Projects
Section 292 of the Regulation is particularly significant for you. It defines a construction project as any project involving construction work with a cost of $250,000 or more. This distinction becomes vital when considering potential future compensation payments following a workplace accident.
Defining Construction Work
Understanding what falls under the category of construction work is essential for your safety and rights. Construction work encompasses a wide range of activities, including but not limited to the construction, alteration, conversion, fitting-out, commissioning, renovation, repair, maintenance, refurbishment, demolition, decommissioning, or dismantling of a structure.
Your Role in General Construction Induction Training
Your safety matters, and the Work Health and Safety Regulation emphasizes the importance of general construction induction training. As a worker engaged in construction work, it is your right to receive this training if:
- You have not successfully completed general construction induction training.
- You completed training more than two years ago and have not engaged in construction work in the preceding two years.
Ensuring Your Preparedness
To safeguard your well-being and to potentially secure future compensation in case of a workplace accident or injury, ensure that you meet the requirements outlined in the Regulation. Stay informed, stay safe, and be proactive in accessing the training necessary for your role.
By understanding these regulations, you empower yourself with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of construction work, fostering a safer and more secure work environment.
Examples of construction work in the agriculture, fisheries and forestry industry that would require induction training and/or work method statement:
| Work criteria | Induction training required by worker? | Safe work method statement required? |
|---|---|---|
| Erection or significant alteration of a structure (e.g. building, shed, road, dam) | Y | Y |
| Construction work at height (e.g. windmill or silo above 2 m) | Y | Y |
| Deep excavation and trenching work (more than 1.5 m deep) | Y | Y |
| Demolition work | Y | Y |
| Work to remove friable asbestos containing material | Y | Y |
| Major repairs to fixed plant | N | Y |