In Australia, businesses have the primary duty of care for Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) which means having established WHS practises is essential and a legislative obligation.
WHS laws are regulated separately by each state, but there are foundational principles they all follow. Today, we will be focusing on small businesses, which make up 98% of all businesses in Australia.
Small businesses typically have less than 20 workers, often being single-director companies or family businesses.
Despite their smaller size, WHS is equally as important to avoid injury, costly fines and compensation. Beyond minimising risk, a comprehensive WHS policy also demonstrates your dedication to employee well-being and the success of your business.
Why is a Comprehensive WHS Policy Important?
Workplace health and safety should never be compromised. A comprehensive WHS policy serves as a blueprint, outlining your commitment to providing a safe workplace. It helps in:
- Ensuring Compliance: A well-structured WHS policy ensures compliance with the legislative requirements, reducing the risk of fines and legal issues.
- Protecting Employees: It shows your dedication to the health, safety, and well-being of your employees, reducing workplace accidents and injuries.
- Enhancing Reputation: Demonstrating a strong commitment to WHS enhances your business’s reputation, attracting both customers and employees who value safety.
Key Elements of a Comprehensive WHS Policy
1. Determine Legal Obligations and Policy Statement
Start by determining the national and state laws which will inform your policy. Safework Australia is a great place to start.
After you’ve defined your legal obligations, begin your policy with a clear and concise statement expressing your commitment to WHS. Outline the importance of workplace health and safety within your organisation and set the tone for compliance and accountability.
2. Roles and Responsibilities
Clarify the roles and responsibilities of individuals within your organisation regarding WHS. Make sure it’s clear who is responsible for what aspect of health and safety, promoting accountability.
3. Risk Assessment and Management
Detail the process for identifying, assessing, and managing risks in the workplace. Encourage a proactive approach to risk management to minimise accidents and potential harm.
4. Incident Reporting and Investigation
Establish a clear procedure for reporting incidents, accidents, near misses, or hazards. Include steps for thorough investigation, ensuring incidents are properly analysed to prevent future occurrences.
5. Emergency Procedures
Outline procedures to follow in case of emergencies, such as fires, medical emergencies, or natural disasters. Educate employees on evacuation routes, assembly points, and emergency contacts.
6. Training and Education
Describe the training programs provided to employees, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their tasks safely. Regular training updates should also be mentioned.
7. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Specify the appropriate PPE required for various tasks and work areas. Highlight the importance of its proper usage and maintenance to ensure protection.
8. Health and Well-being Initiatives
Promote health and well-being among employees by offering wellness programs, access to health resources, and creating a supportive work environment that prioritises physical and mental health.
9. Compliance and Review
Outline how compliance with the WHS policy will be monitored, audited, and reviewed regularly. Emphasise continuous improvement and adaptation to changes in regulations or work processes.
10. Communication Strategy
Define a clear communication strategy to ensure that all employees are aware of the WHS policy, understand its content, and are updated on any changes or improvements. Be sure to include this in onboarding so that new employees are aware of WHS procedures.
Partner with Close Consulting
At Close Consulting, we understand the importance of a comprehensive WHS policy for small businesses. We also understand that it can feel complicated and daunting. If you haven’t established a clear WHS policy, or believe yours is outdated and requires review, you can reach out to us for expert guidance.
We assist a range of small businesses in developing tailored WHS policies that protect both you and your employees.
We’re here to support you every step of the way in promoting a safe and healthy workplace.