The Occupational Health and Safety Act (2004) applies to all workplaces, as do the regulations and most of the Codes of Practice (note, following a code of practice does not automatically ensure compliance with a duty under the Act. These code serves as practical guidance, contributing to the body of knowledge and supporting those responsible for adhering to health and safety laws with practical guidance).
However, some regulations and codes are more likely to be relevant in offices - for example the Hazardous Manual Handling Regulations, the Hazardous Substances Regulations, or even the Asbestos Regulations (when offices are being refurbished).
Australian standards are not legally binding unless they are incorporated into legislation. However, when interpreting legal matters, Australian standards may be referenced to guide duty holders on meeting their obligations. Compliance codes may also include references to specific Australian standards.
For more information on this, check these pages on our website:
- Overview of OHS and related legislation in Victoria: This page provides an overview of all the OHS and related legislation, including a list of regulations and codes of practice. A brief description of the regulations and codes under the OHS Act is also provided.
- A more detailed summary of the various sections of the OHS Act.
- The 2017 consolidated OHS Regulations (each chapter is summarised).
See Also
-
On this site:
-
WorkSafe Victoria publications:
- Office health and safety - the most complete and updated employer's handbook on managing OHS risks in office environments, covering many office-related OHS issues.
- Compliance code: Workplace facilities and the working environment - This compliance code offers practical guidance for individuals with duties or obligations under the OHS Act and the OHS Regulations to provide workplace facilities and maintain safe workplace conditions.
- Fitness Ball is not suitable as a chair - this Guidance Note also provides advice on sitting posture and the design of workplace chairs.
- Injury hotspots - Office workers - Body map of the most common injuries and hazards for workers in office environments, and possible control measures.
-
Comcare has a Virtual Office web tool that provides a range of information on office-based hazards. It includes links to Commonwealth OHS regulatory and guidance material that may be used in the development of OHS policies and procedures.
-
From the Trade Union Congress supported Hazards Magazine, resources on Computer Workstations including links to international on-line checklists and research tools.
- From the UK's HSE - a sample risk assessment for a general office, providing useful advice to reps and workers.
Last amended February 2026