WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY: AAD STANDARDS FOR SAFE WORK PRACTICES

Introduction

The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safe working environment for all personnel by issuing a revised Work Health and Safety Policy. This policy outlines the division’s expectations for managing risk, maintaining a safe working environment, and providing adequate facilities and training.

Managerial Responsibilities

• Managers and supervisors at all levels are responsible for ensuring compliance with AAD-wide and branch-specific Risk Management practices and procedures.
• They must also ensure that their specific area of control is in line with AAD policies and procedures aimed at ensuring safe plant, equipment, and systems of work.

Worker Responsibilities

• Workers are expected to be aware of and adhere to requirements set out in the AAD Work Health and Safety Policy, as well as risk management practices and procedures.
• They must also participate in consultation mechanisms and report any concerns or suggestions related to work health and safety matters.

Key Definitions

• Due diligence: The policy defines due diligence as the exercise of reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions that could give rise to a contravention of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
• Officer: An officer is defined as an individual who has the ability to make decisions on behalf of the AAD, including managers, supervisors, and other personnel with delegated authority.
• PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking): A PCBUS is defined as an entity that conducts a business or undertaking, such as the AAD, which has duties under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
• Worker: A worker is defined as any individual who performs work for or on behalf of the AAD, including contractors, volunteers, and employees.

Roles and Responsibilities

• AAD Work Area Managers are responsible for ensuring compliance with work health and safety policies and procedures in their area of control.

References

The policy references relevant legislation, regulations, and guidelines, including:

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011
• Comcare guidance documents

Conclusion

By implementing this revised policy, the AAD aims to reduce the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses, promote a culture of safety and responsibility, and ensure that all personnel have access to adequate facilities, training, and emergency response procedures.