With the newly released WHS laws, it's a good time for Western Australian businesses to review their current WHS practices. This is especially true if they want to certify their safety management system to ISO 45001.

WA's new Work Health and Safety Act 2020 and regulations officially commenced on 31 March 2022. In a national first, the new laws bring together WHS for general industry, mines and petroleum, and geothermal operations under a single Act. No doubt, this is the most critical health and safety reform for WA workplaces in over 30 years!

The new WHS laws align with most other States and Territories in Australia. Introducing the new laws provides an ideal opportunity for local businesses to review their current practices. Working towards implementing an ISO 45001-certified safety management system will significantly improve safety overall.

Why ISO 45001?

The greatest asset in any business is its people. Whatever the risks involved in your industry, identifying & managing risk, promoting a safe workplace, and reducing accidents are in the best interest of everyone.

An effective Occupational Health and Safety system will result in fewer accidents, more excellent care within the workplace and an organisational culture that promotes safe and healthy work systems. Employees who know there are systems in place that showcase commitment to their ongoing safety and well-being are more motivated, loyal and of more excellent value to the organisation they work for.

ISO 45001 outlines the requirements for implementing an Occupational Health and Safety Management System. The standard has been designed to help organisations establish and maintain a management system to improve employee welfare, health, and safety at the workplace.

The OHS standard has been developed to be compatible with ISO 9001:2015 (Quality) and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management Systems in an Integrated Management System.