Safework NSW updates three codes of practice

Safework NSW last month updated three codes of practice under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act to provide practical guidelines for:

1. Managing the risk of falls at workplaces:
   This Code applies to persons who conduct a business or undertaking, including anyone who designs, constructs, imports, supplies or installs plant or structures. The Code provides practical guidance about how to minimise the risks of someone falling from one level to another by following a systematic process to identify hazards that may cause injury; assess the risks of these hazards; implement risk control measures; and review these risk control measures to ensure they work.
2. Labelling of workplace hazardous chemicals:
   This Code describes the information needed on labels for various hazardous chemicals, so anyone using these chemicals in a workplace can identify hazards associated with the chemical and take appropriate steps to eliminate or minimise the risks. Duty holders under this code include manufacturers and importers; suppliers; and persons who conduct a business or undertaking.
3. Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work:
   This Code provides guidance on how to minimise the risks of hearing loss associated with noise in the workplace. Hazardous noise can destroy the ability to hear clearly and can also make it more difficult to hear sounds needed for working safely, such as instructions or warning signals. Managing noise-related risks helps to protect workers from hearing loss and disabling tinnitus (ringing in the ears or head); improving the conditions for communication and hearing warning sounds; and creating a less stressful and more productive work environment. This Code applies to any person conducting a business or undertaking.

You can learn more about these updated codes of practice by clicking the hyperlinked headings above or by calling SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50.