Your Industry
Your Industry - Government (Local, State)
Victoria has 79 local councils, and ten State government departments.
A very wide range of workers work for local or state government, from clerical to outdoor staff. Workers in the government sector can be exposed to a wide range of hazards which can have serious effects on their health and/or safety.
There has been plenty of research which shows that unionised and organised workplaces have a better OHS record than un-unionised sites as these sites are far more likely to have well-trained and resourced elected OHS Reps, joint OHS Committees and support from the union. This applies not only to traditional 'blue collar' workplaces, but so-called 'white-collar' workers too.
Below are some items which might specifically interest you, but also check the general Law & Rights, Hazards and FAQ sections for more information.
FAQs
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Offices - computers and eyesight
Does working on computers affect your eyes?
[read more] -
Office space
What are the minimum space requirements for offices? [read more] -
Other FAQs
Workplace amenities, fire escapes and more..
[read more] -
Office Hazards: Computers and VDUs - what are the guidelines?
Working with computers can cause workers a number of problems. Read more.
[read more] -
Offices: Temperature and humidity – what are the “rules”?
The VTHC OHS Unit often receives questions like "What does the legislation say about temperature in offices?" [read more] -
Breaks for computer/VDU users?
There is no requirement under Victorian OHS legislation to provide specific breaks to computer/VDU users. However ... [read more] -
Offices - what OHS legislation applies?
OHS legislation in Victoria is generic, and covers all workplaces - including offices. [read more] -
Rest/meal breaks - what am I entitled to?
There's nothing specific in OHS legislation. Read more.
[read more] -
Electrical Equipment - What are the laws/guidelines?
Employers must ensure the workplace (including the plant) is safe and without risks to health - what does this mean for electrical equipment (eg testing and tagging)? [read more]
Hazard
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Office hazards: Photocopiers, printers etc
Advice for OHS Reps and an Action Plan to contol the risks of office hazards. [read more] -
Needlestick Injuries
Many workers face the daily risk of injury from needlestick injuries - read more.
[read more] -
Sprains and strains
Sprains and strains are the most common injuries suffered by workers across all workplaces, and in all industries. [read more] -
Legionnaires disease
What is 'legionnaires' or 'legionella'? What reps and workers you should know about it. [read more]
Item
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Teleworking - or working from home
Teleworking: a growing trend in Australia ... [read more]
Regulations
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2.1 General Duties
General Duties are covered by Chapter 2, Part 2.1 of the regulations [read more]