The Tasmanian Government has launched an advertising campaign to encourage Tasmanian businesses to prepare for the new workplace OHS laws that will come into effect from January 2013.

 

The Minister for Workplace Relations, David O'Byrne, said the 'OH S…' campaign plays upon the OH&S acronym, to remind employers and managers that the new laws come into effect from next year.

 

"OHS… is the understandable gut reaction of any worker, manager or business owner when they hear there's been an accident in the workplace," Mr O'Byrne said. "This campaign uses that first reactionary moment to try and promote how workplaces can be proactive on work health and safety.

 

"We know that bland advertising often fails to capture people's attention. This campaign takes a more irreverent approach to get the message across effectively," he said.

 

Mr O'Byrne said the broader definition of 'worker' under the new legislation means duty holders must be aware of their health and safety responsibilities. 

 

"A workplace accident affects everyone - including family, friends and workmates. It's essential that workplaces take steps now to comply with the laws, and help ensure the safety of workers," he said.

 

Mr O'Byrne said more than 1,000 Tasmanians have already attended free WorkSafe Tasmania information sessions about the new legislation, around Tasmania.

 

One Tasmanian business that is taking action and embracing the legislative changes is Ronald Young & Co Builders.

 

The company's Director, Paul Burnell, said his organisation is developing new documentation and systems to ensure they comply with the new legislation before January 2013.

 

"We are taking a proactive approach to the upcoming changes with some of our work to date including a review of the Draft Codes of Practice relevant to the construction industry, weekly toolbox meetings as well as setting up a work health and safety committee and activity database," Mr Burnell said.

 

"We are also hosting an information evening for our contractors, attending relevant training sessions, such as those being held as part of WorkSafe Month, and encouraging our workers and contractors to do the same.

 

"We recognise our responsibility to be aware of, and to implement these changes to ensure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day," he said.

 

Businesses or workers interested in finding out more about how the new model work health and safety legislation might affect them should attend one of the many free information sessions being held across the State during WorkSafe Tasmania Month which runs from 1 October - 2 November 2012.

 

More information is at www.worksafe.tas.gov.au.