2 May 2012

Health and safety review positive

A review of the 20 year old workplace health and safety legislation, along with the commitment to invest more in workplace safety, are welcome initiatives says the Employers & Manufacturers Association's Health and Safety Manager, Paul Jarvie.

"A lot has changed in the last two decades and safety issues are quite different to what they were in the 1980's," Mr Jarvie said.

"Business supports the role of the modern regulator as practiced in Australian, Japan and elsewhere.

"The role of the modern regulator is where workplace safety inspectors are empowered to advise and assist businesses meet their obligations, and help them create a safe workplace culture while retaining their powers to investigate and police.

"We want to see the emphasis shift so safety inspectors can form partnerships with businesses to support and encourage their compliance in the first instance.

"The recent shift to specific industry safety plans, away from a 'one size fits all' approach, is a positive step along this track.

"With such an approach in place an increase in the number of safety inspectors will be very helpful.

"This review alongside the creation of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is a welcome opportunity to put the spotlight on this important area."

ENDS

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