QLD Leads the nation when it comes to worker safety

The Palaszczuk Government continues to show its commitment to workers, implementing two nation leading measures to keep workers safe this Labour Day.

Today, Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace announced that the Government has accepted all 31 recommendations from an independent review into the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

These recommendations will ensure Queensland’s WHS laws remain the strongest in the country, with legislation set to be introduced to Parliament later this year to implement the majority of the recommendations.

In a further step to protect businesses and workers, the Palaszczuk Government’s Australian-first Code of Practice for managing silica dust in construction and manufacturing commences today.

Developed in consultation with unions, employers and technical experts, the dust control methods contained in the code are based on extensive data evidence.

Designed to protect Queensland workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS or silica dust) – known to cause the deadly disease silicosis – the new code of practice provides minimum enforceable standards to eliminate or minimise exposure to silica dust.

The Code applies to all construction work as well as the manufacturing of building materials that contain crystalline silica.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industrial Relations, Grace Grace:

“The Palaszczuk Government will never shy away from standing up for workers and taking action that will keep Queenslanders safe.

“While legislative reviews and reform can be complex processes, they are absolutely necessary to give us the in-depth insights and advice we need to strengthen laws to protect Queensland workers.

“One of the key findings from Work Health and Safety Act review was the need for more education on the rights of worker health and safety representatives (HSRs), so we will clarify and enhance the existing frameworks and support the reduction of unnecessary disputes.

“Our amendments will deliver on an election commitment to enable HSRs to choose their training provider.

“Labour Day 2023 also marks the commencement of Queensland’s nation leading silica dust code of practice for the construction and manufacturing industry.

“We have all been shocked and saddened to head the stories of workers suffering from silicosis. Make no mistake, this code will save lives and make our work sites safer for everyone.”

Further information:

You can view the WHS Act Review report and the Queensland Government’s response here: https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/work-health-and-safety-act-2011-review?refresh=true