Archived News for OHS Sector Professionals - March, 2014
One of Australia’s chief research groups is setting up a centre to focus on the true causes of serious accidents and injuries.
Signage switch issues illuminated
New laws will soon be in place to allow the use of glow-in-the-dark exit signs.
Asbestos scare shuts a dozen Surat CSG sites
Work has stopped at twelve coal seam gas sites in Queensland over the weekend after the discovery of asbestos.
Home insulation failure fronts Commission
The Royal Commission into the tragic failure of the Rudd government’s home insulation scheme will begin today, and could prompt some intriguing revelations from politicians and public servants on the witness list.
Union probe launched deep into dodgy dealings
The Governor-General has tabled papers to kick off the Royal Commission into Trade Union Governance and Corruption.
Metadata study infers severe invasion possible
An experiment has shown just how much can be gleaned from metadata, and why it should not be released too freely.
Academic minds turn to matters of mining
A new centre has been funded to study the effects of one of the world’s most dangerous professions.
WorkCover review finds NSW workers less covered
An independent review has found a set of WorkCover changes are much more favourable to businesses than their employees.
Electronic safety net sought soon for NSW
New South Wales will take on repeated suggestions and make it compulsory for all fuel tankers to be fitted with electronic stability control.
Incredible ocean link plan brings unknown risk
Progress appears to have been made on a $40 billion project to open a new link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Leaks and spills in Japan still, insiders say returning unwise
Experts have told media outlets that a decision to let Fukushima resident back into their homes is premature and potentially very dangerous.
John Holland group summoned over death on Perth
Several groups surrounding civil construction firm John Holland will face Federal Court over allegations that federal health and safety laws were breached, leading to the death of a rail maintenance worker on the Perth CityLink.
Mine fire quietened while water health risk heats up
After more than month of constant haze, fumes, smoke and flames; the long-burning fire at the Hazelwood open cut mine is now under control, leaving authorities to try to tackle the health risks it has created.
Tiny fine from nasty leak, but Santos says all is well
Gas firm Santos Ltd has been fined after groundwater sampling revealed elevated levels of elements including arsenic, lead, and uranium at a site in New South Wales.
Late night boozing still fine in NSW Parliament
New South Wales Members of Parliament can continue drinking during late-night sittings, after a parliamentary inquiry ruled drunkenness was covered by existing rules.
Broader view needed to dig at real source of harassment
It is certain that many workplace clashes are the result of differing opinions or personalities, but new research shows the workplace itself plays a big role too.
Building OHS scheme renovated, keeping solid foundation
The OHS scheme covering the building industry will be updated, with authorities looking to modernise and streamline processes while keeping safety intact.
Cops keep checking spree going on NSW trucks
Authorities are cracking down on a range of heavy vehicle faults this week, with a targeted spree in New South Wales.
Double bus fire down to the wire
A wiring problem appears to have been the cause of two bus fires in as many months.
Egg safety checks as yolks make folks ill
One company has been named as the source of a salmonella outbreak affecting hundreds of people in Victoria.
Locals' road wish granted by RMS inspections
Ongoing community concerns have prompted authorities to review the safety of a wet and slippery mountain pass between the Pacific and New England highways.