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Safety @ work

OHSW in the workplace

Who is responsible?
Under the Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Act 1986 (the OHSW Act) both employers and employees have responsibility for health and safety in the workplace.

However, the employer has the ultimate responsibility and a duty of care to ensure the health and safety of employees and anyone else who might be affected by work carried out for their employer.

As an employee you are responsible for the things you have control over. This means that you must do everything reasonably practicable to protect your own health and safety and that of others.

What are your responsibilities as an employee?
As an employee you must:

  • follow all reasonable instructions
  • not put other employees or members of the public at risk
  • use any protective equipment that is provided
  • ensure you are not affected by alcohol or another drug.

You can be actively involved in making your workplace safer by becoming a health and safety representative (HSR), by contributing to health and safety committee meetings, or simply by raising any health and safety issues in the workplace.

If you are unsure about anything don’t be afraid to ask someone in authority in your workplace, such as your manager, supervisor or HSR.

What are your employers responsibilities?
All employers must ensure that:

  • the workplace is safe and there are safe systems of work
  • machinery, equipment, tools, appliances and substances are kept in a safe condition
  • ongoing information, supervision and training is provided about workplace tasks
  • they monitor working conditions and the health, safety and welfare of employees
  • facilities such as toilets and meal rooms are provided
  • first aid equipment and supplies are provided
  • records are kept of work related injuries
  • health and safety information is provided to all employees
  • employees receive proper instructions, information and training before commencing any new work.

Every employer must prepare polices that set out their arrangements for protecting the health and safety of employees whilst they are at work.

Last updated: 21 October, 2010

Telephone 1300 365 255

Employers and employees within South Australia can contact their local SafeWork SA office, or the Help Centre, for the cost of a local call. This service is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm, and on Wednesdays from 8.30am to 4.15pm (excluding public holidays)

Email: help@safework.sa.gov.au