Labor & Employment

Asbestos Framework Review Consultation

Safe Work Australia has opened a consultation on reviewing the Asbestos Framework. The review aims to strengthen model WHS laws to better control asbestos risks and support its prioritized removal. Feedback is welcomed from various stakeholders until April 26, 2026.

Model Code of Practice on Biological Hazards at Work

Safe Work Australia has released the first Model Code of Practice globally on managing biological hazards at work. This guidance assists employers in protecting workers and others from exposure to biological hazards like viruses, bacteria, and mould, which can cause injury, illness, and disease across all industries.

Consultation on Improving WHS Dispute Resolution

Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on options to improve dispute resolution under model work health and safety (WHS) laws. The consultation paper explores a specialist tribunal and alternative dispute resolution approaches, with submissions due by April 17, 2026.

Online Model Code of Practice for Healthcare Industry

Safe Work Australia has released an online version of the model Code of Practice for the Healthcare and Social Assistance industry. This update makes the existing guidance more accessible and user-friendly for employers and workers across the sector.

Recycling Company Fined for Telehandler Incident Causing Life-Changing Injuries

Sheridan Skips Burnley Limited was fined £24,000 after an employee suffered life-changing injuries in a telehandler incident. The Health and Safety Executive investigation found the company failed to conduct adequate risk assessments and segregate vehicles from pedestrians.

EEOC Commission Meeting Sunshine Act Notice

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has issued a notice regarding an upcoming commission meeting. The notice specifies the date, time, place, and matters to be considered during the meeting, adhering to Sunshine Act requirements.

OSHA Cites Florida Contractor $28,135 for Serious Violations After Fatality

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Hyvac Inc., a Florida contractor, for two serious violations after a worker fatality. The agency proposed $28,135 in penalties for exposing workers to struck-by hazards.

OSHA Fines Grain Company $276,407 for Safety Violations After Worker Injury

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued citations and proposed $276,407 in penalties to Alliance Grain Co. in Gibson City, Illinois. The citations stem from an inspection following a serious injury to a seasonal laborer, revealing violations related to machine guarding, lockout/tagout procedures, and grain bin entry safety.

OSHA cites contractor after worker exposure to toxic chemicals

The U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA has cited PCE Petroleum Contractors Enterprises Inc. for 12 serious violations after a worker was fatally exposed to benzene and toluene. The agency proposed $60,242 in penalties.

Labor Department: Union Pacific Railroad wrongly terminated employee

The U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA found Union Pacific Railroad violated the Federal Railroad Safety Act by terminating an employee after they reported a work-related injury. OSHA ordered the company to reinstate the employee and pay over $315,000 in damages.