Safety Bulletin - June 2022

Australia – 2022 actions for occupational lung diseases outlined

Safe Work Australia (SWA) has revised its Occupational Lung Diseases Work Plan, which outlines actions the national body will take in relation to occupational lung diseases. In 2022, SWA intends to complete the review of the workplace exposure standards for airborne contaminants, create asbestos guidance and information sheets, and undertake various work related to respirable crystalline silica and engineered stone, which includes working on model WHS amendments, creating supporting materials, investigating research opportunities and developing a national WHS evaluation framework.

View SafeWork Australia’s plan here.

New South Wales – Draft Bill for medicines, poisons and therapeutic goods proposed – Open for comment until 9 June

NSW Health has developed a Draft Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Bill 2022 which, together with its associated regulations, will replace the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 and Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Regulation 2008. The new Bill is intended to modernise and improve the framework for medicines, poisons, and therapeutic goods. A discussion paper has been released for public feedback, while a separate consultation process will be held for the associated regulations. Comments close 9 June 2022.

Victoria – New draft regulations for dangerous goods storage and handling proposed

WorkSafe Victoria has consulted on proposed new Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2022 along with a Regulatory Impact Statement. The proposed Regulations will replace previous Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2012 which are scheduled to expire on 27 November 2022. Minor changes and new definitions will be incorporated to improve clarity, however the new Regulations are not proposed to alter existing duty holder obligations.

View Engage Victoria’s consultation here for more information..