Work safety
It is an employer's responsibility to provide a safe and secure work environment. If you are uneasy or concerned about your safety at work, talk to your employer about improving safety in and around the workplace.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) is the agency responsible for improving workplace health and safety and helping reduce the risk of workers being killed or injured on the job. WHSQ provides information on:
- workplace incidents and inspections
- law and penalties
- your rights and obligations
- training licences and registrations
- publications and forms.
Read more about workplace health and safety.
General health and safety obligations
- The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 lists the requirements for making workplaces and work practices safer for everyone.
- The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 sets out the legal requirements to prevent or control hazards that may cause injury or death in the workplace.
- Codes of practice give practical advice on ways to minimise common risks.
Read more about general health and safety obligations
Workplace incidents
In an emergency always dial 000 and give first aid if required.
By law, you must report incidents in the workplace to WHSQ where there is:
- serious injury
- work-caused illness
- a dangerous event
- a dangerous electrical event
- a serious electrical incident
- a major accident under the Dangerous Goods Safety Management Act 2001
- a death in the workplace.
Incidents that do not cause serious injuries or illnesses do not need to be reported to WHSQ, but must still be recorded and investigated internally.
Risk management
Some professions are riskier than others. Both employees and employers must consider legislation and codes of practice to understand the health and safety requirements for managing risk.
Read more about managing risks
Accident prevention
Good health and safety practices, personal protective equipment and risk mitigation strategies can prevent accidents in the workplace.