Overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act)

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Module 3: Overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act)


Introduction

The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) is a crucial piece of legislation aimed at ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees across various industries.

 This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the OHS Act’s objectives, key sections and regulations, significant terms and definitions, and the new Covid-19 workplace laws introduced post the Disaster Management Act. 

Through case studies, examples, and tips, students will gain a thorough grasp of these critical components.

Aim and Scope of the OHS Act

The OHS Act's primary goal is to protect the health and safety of workers by preventing workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Its comprehensive scope covers a wide range of workplace activities and environments.

Objectives:

  1. Ensure Employee Safety and Health: Protect employees from workplace hazards.
  2. Promote Safe Work Environments: Establish standards and practices to maintain safe working conditions.
  3. Prevent Occupational Injuries and Illnesses: Implement preventive measures to reduce the occurrence of work-related injuries and diseases.

Scope:

  • All Industries: The OHS Act applies to various sectors including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and more.
  • Employers and Employees: Both employers and employees are subject to the Act’s provisions, emphasizing shared responsibility for workplace safety.


Tip: Understanding the scope of the OHS Act is crucial for recognizing the broad applicability of its regulations. 

Ensure you know how it applies to your specific industry and job role.

Sections and Regulations of the OHS Act

The OHS Act is structured into several key sections and regulations that outline specific requirements and procedures for maintaining workplace safety.

  1. General Duties of Employers: Employers are required to provide a safe work environment, ensure the health and safety of their employees, and comply with all relevant regulations.

    Example: Employers must conduct regular risk assessments, provide appropriate training, and supply necessary safety equipment.

  2. General Duties of Employees: Employees must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others, cooperate with employers, and comply with safety protocols.

    Example: Employees should report unsafe conditions, use protective equipment correctly, and follow safety guidelines.

  3. Health and Safety Committees: Establishment of committees to monitor workplace safety, investigate incidents, and recommend improvements.

    Case Study: A large manufacturing company set up a health and safety committee that successfully reduced workplace accidents by 30% through regular safety audits and employee training programs.

  4. Reporting and Record-Keeping: Employers must keep records of workplace injuries, illnesses, and safety inspections, and report serious incidents to the relevant authorities.

    Tip: Maintain detailed and accurate records to ensure compliance and facilitate audits or inspections.

  5. Regulations on Specific Hazards: Detailed rules addressing specific workplace hazards, such as chemical safety, machinery operation, and noise control.

    Example: The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to provide information and training on hazardous chemicals in the workplace.





Significant Terms and Definitions

Understanding the terminology used in the OHS Act is essential for interpreting its provisions accurately.

  1. Hazard: Any source of potential damage, harm, or adverse health effects on someone under certain conditions at work.
  2. Risk: The likelihood that a person may be harmed or suffer adverse health effects if exposed to a hazard.
  3. Incident: An occurrence arising out of or in the course of work that could result in injury or damage.
  4. Competent Person: Someone who has the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to manage health and safety issues effectively.


Tip: Familiarize yourself with these terms to better understand and apply the OHS Act’s regulations in your workplace.


Covid-19 Workplace Laws

The Covid-19 pandemic prompted significant updates to workplace safety regulations to prevent the spread of the virus.

New Regulations Post Disaster Management Act:

  1. Health Screening: Employers must conduct regular health screenings, such as temperature checks, for employees and visitors.
  2. Social Distancing: Implement measures to maintain physical distancing in the workplace, including reconfiguring workspaces and limiting the number of employees on-site.
  3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide necessary PPE, such as masks and gloves, and ensure their proper use.
  4. Hygiene and Sanitation: Enhance cleaning protocols, provide hand sanitizers, and ensure frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

Case Study: A retail company implemented strict Covid-19 protocols, including health screenings, social distancing markers, and mandatory mask-wearing. These measures not only protected employees and customers but also allowed the business to continue operating safely during the pandemic.

Tip: Stay updated on evolving Covid-19 regulations and ensure your workplace complies with the latest guidelines to protect health and safety.

Conclusion

The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) is a comprehensive legal framework designed to ensure the safety and health of employees across all industries. By understanding its aim and scope, key sections and regulations, significant terms, and the new Covid-19 workplace laws, students can appreciate the importance of compliance and the practical steps needed to foster a safe working environment. Through case studies and practical tips, this module equips students with the knowledge to effectively navigate and implement the OHS Act in their respective workplaces. 


The most common OSHA violations serve as a critical reminder for employers to maintain workplace safety standards.

 As of 2024, the top OSHA violations are:


  1. Fall Protection: Violations related to fall protection in construction, such as inadequate fall prevention systems and failure to use personal fall arrest systems where necessary.
  2. Hazard Communication: Non-compliance with the Hazard Communication Standard, which requires proper labeling, safety data sheets, and training programs to inform workers about chemical hazards.
  3. Scaffolding: Violations related to scaffolding in construction, including improper assembly or lack of guardrails.
  4. Respiratory Protection: Failure to provide suitable respiratory protection against airborne contaminants or lack of a proper respiratory protection program.
  5. Ladder Violations: Use of ladders that are damaged, have structural defects, or are used improperly.
  6. Machine Guarding Violations: Lack of proper guarding on machinery to protect operators and other workers from hazards.
  7. Lockout/Tagout Violations: Inadequate control of hazardous energy during service or maintenance of machines or equipment.
  8. Powered Industrial Trucks Violations: Improper use and maintenance of forklifts and other powered industrial trucks.




Employers should take proactive steps to address these common issues to prevent workplace injuries and avoid penalties. Regular training, safety audits, and employee engagement in safety protocols are effective strategies to ensure compliance and protect workers.

Les


Furthermore, I offer my services to assist small businesses, employees, and students with inquiries, and I can craft specialized articles and procedures for a nominal fee.

Enjoy reading for free; if you like the story, and would like to offer a donation it would really be appreciated

Blog Short Stories   I also write short stories for all. 


Thanking You

Les 

joubertles@yahoo.com

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