Public comment sought on safeguarding of machinery and plant
Issue Date: - Friday, 8 August 2008
WA’s Commission for Occupational Safety and Health is seeking public comment on a draft code of practice for the safeguarding of machinery and plant.
Commission Chair Tony Cooke said today the draft code of practice aimed to assist workplaces to meet their legal obligation to provide and maintain a safe working environment.
“The code explains the legal obligations involved in safely guarding machinery and plant in the workplace so it does not pose a risk to safety and health,” Mr Cooke said.
“Statistics show that around 1440 workplace injuries each year involve machinery, and that around 240 of these injuries are serious enough to result in more than 60 days off work.
“The lack of guarding on machinery is a significant cause of workplace deaths and injuries in WA, and this code aims to reduce this tragic toll.”
The proposed code applies to workplaces covered by both the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 and the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994, making it applicable in almost all WA workplaces.
It sets out broad duties for employers and other people at workplaces, as well as those who design, manufacture, import or supply plant. It provides:
• General guidance on the identification and control of hazards and risks associated with guarding – or the lack of guarding – of machinery and plant;
• Information on key legislative requirements of the two sets of Acts and Regulations as they relate to the guarding of machinery and plant; and
• Practical guidance on guarding of machinery and plant commonly found in workplaces.
The draft code has been developed by the Commission for Occupational Safety and Health and the Mining Industry Advisory Committee, along with representatives of unions, employer organisations and government.
Mr Cooke said it was important that the Commission received comments from industry representatives, unions, organisations and community members to ensure all views were thoroughly considered.
“I strongly encourage anyone who has an interest in safeguarding machinery and plant to consider the draft code of practice and make a submission,” he said.
“Anyone who does will be playing an important part in the future safety and health of Western Australians.”
Comments on the draft code can be forwarded to the Commission’s Executive Officer in person or via post, e-mail or fax. The period for public comment closes on October 10.
Further information and copies of the draft code can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777 or on the website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.