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Archived news about the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner

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FSC launches A Practical Guide to Safety Leadership
25 June 2008

Tom Fisher highlighted the importance of senior management commitment in his launch of A Practical Guide to Safety Leadership at an event earlier this week in Canberra.

The Guide, developed by the CRC for Construction Innovation, is a follow up resource for A Construction Safety Competency Framework: Improving OH&S performance by creating and maintaining a safety culture.

Used together, the publications outline the basis for an improved safety culture by providing a useful step by step approach to ensure those who hold safety critical roles can be made aware of, and can execute, those tasks needed to effectively manage OHS.

Tom encouraged members of the building and construction industry to apply the guidance material and thanked the CRC for their continued efforts in developing practical material to support safety in construction.

Interested in safe design?
13 May 2008

In response to interest from the building and construction industry on the subject of safe design, the OFSC has developed a web page about safe design.

Safe design is about planning and risk management to reduce the risk of injury on building and construction projects, and in the use, maintenance and demolition of built structures. So it may be worth your while to stop and have a read about the topic on our website.

The web page brings together elements of the OFSC’s work about safe design and provides links to OFSC and other guidance on the subject.

We intend to update the web page from time to time with more information, so keep an eye out for updates to the page.

Initiative met with healthy appetite
12 May 2008

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) has received an overwhelming response to its health initiative.

Launched in February this year, the initiative targets two major health concerns in the building and construction industry: mental health and sun safety.

Items available to accredited companies include sun safe posters and a 1-litre pump pack of SPF 30+ sunscreen for use on work sites.

Other products target mental health issues in the workplace, with wallet cards and posters co-branded with beyondblue: the national depression initiative. These are available to all contractors — accredited or otherwise — to display and distribute on their sites. These products aim to raise awareness of mental health issues while also publicising support options available.

As a result of the initiative’s success, the OFSC has reprinted the wallet cards and posters.

The OFSC welcomes enquiries and requests for these items.

Both sun safe and mental health items may be obtained by phoning 1800 652 500 or by emailing ofsc@deewr.gov.au.

Project Safety Audit criteria
7 May 2008

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner has released information outlining Project Safety Audit (PSA) criteria. This criteria is used to review accredited builders on projects which fall within the scope of the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme).

The PSA criteria are used by Federal Safety Officers (FSOs) in their assessment of worksites. The PSA criteria include (but are not limited to) OHS Management System (OHSMS) criteria, Scheme Criteria and hazard management of the 19 high risk activities defined in the National Standard for Construction Work (NOSHC:1016 2005). It should be noted the criteria is not a definitive list and is intended as a guide only.

The PSA criteria form part of the requirements for maintaining accreditation under the Scheme.

Further advice and assistance regarding the PSA audit process is available by calling the FSC Assist Line on 1800 652 500 or emailing ofsc@deewr.gov.au.

Release of FSC resource material The model client: Promoting safe construction
22 April 2008

The Federal Safety Commissioner, Tom Fisher, today released a series of booklets The model client: Promoting safe construction at a workshop conducted for Australian Government agencies.

The booklets provide a framework for integrating safety initiatives into the management of construction projects.

The framework adopts a project lifecycle approach and establishes a series of key management actions for the client to implement throughout the construction project.

The resource consists of 5 booklets:

1. The Model Client Framework
2. The planning stage
3. The design and procurement stage
4. The construction stage
5. The completion stage

The introductory booklet describes the key elements of the OHS processes and an implementation approach. Subsequent booklets contain activities for the various stages of the project supported by a range of resource materials including checklists, templates and tools.

Other resources include the Project OHS Process Map and a CD featuring Word versions of the resource materials.

To download a copy of the booklets visit our Publications page.

A nationally consistent tool for subcontractors, OHSE SubbyPack released
10 April

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner has recently helped to facilitate the development of OHSE SubbyPack, A tool for Self Employed Persons, Suppliers, Service Providers, Contractors and Subcontractors in the Australian Building and Construction Industry.

OHSE SubbyPack is a nationally consistent tool which aims to provide subcontractors with a generic approach to OHS and environmental risk management.

The project is an initiative of the NSW and Victorian Construction Safety Alliances and has involved extensive consultation with a range of OHS professionals from building and construction organisations as well as representatives from the Australian Constructors Association and WorkCover NSW.

The OFSC is committed to continue working with industry to develop initiatives to assist subcontractors. The OFSC encourages the use of OHSE SubbyPack by subcontractors seeking practical guidance in the implementation of their OHSE management arrangements.

Working with underground utilities?
9 April 2008

Are you working with underground utilities? If so, you may be interested to know that the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) has released a new case study. The case study highlights initiatives to work safely when performing underground work, particularly working around electricity.

The example given in the case study is the construction of the M7 motorway in NSW.

It is suggested that collaboration, training and communication help reduce the risk of electrocution when working with underground utilities.

With risk management techniques including use of GPS and safety messages, the case study identifies ways which injury and accidents may be avoided.

The OFSC works with a range of building and construction industry stakeholders to develop case studies that promote practical ideas for OHS management. This is the tenth OFSC case study published. View all OFSC case studies.

If you have a subject that may be of interest to the industry in OHS management, please email us at ofsc@deewr.gov.au.

PTM Homes join the growing list of accredited companies
4 April 2008

Tom Fisher, Federal Safety Commissioner (FSC) is delighted to announce yet another company accredited under the Australian Government Building and Construction Scheme (the Scheme).

PTM Homes, a Northern Territory based organisation, received their certificate of accreditation from the FSC at a ceremony on 5 March 2008 in Darwin.

The presentation coincided with Tom’s recent trip to the Northern Territory during which he visited a number of construction sites and met organisations to discuss the Scheme.

With 81 companies accredited to date, and applications for accreditation received on a weekly basis, further improvement of OHS in the building and construction industry is looking promising.

Pictured from left: Matthew Gardiner (OFSC), Tony Papadakis (Managing Director, PTM Homes), Tom Fisher (FSC) and Michael Papadakis (PTM Homes).

Initiative to assist subcontractors with their OHS performance
2 April 2008

The OFSC is currently undertaking a project aimed at assisting subcontractors to better understand their OHS obligations, and to improve their OHS performance.

As part of the project, the OFSC has undertaken a qualitative study of subcontractor OHS requirements through a national survey programme. The aim of the programme has been to gain a better understanding of the barriers and enablers to an improved level of OHS performance among subcontractors.

The OFSC commissioned RMIT University to undertake the study in 2007. A summary of their findings is now released for the benefit of interested parties.

For more information, or to access the summary, visit our Research page.

OFSC Workshop for Australian Government agencies
14 March 2008

The OFSC is conducting a free workshop aimed at assisting Australian Government agencies to become model clients of the building and construction industry.

The workshop has been designed for project and contract managers working in Australian Government agencies on building and construction projects. The aim is to provide participants with information on processes and strategies to improve and integrate safety into the management of construction projects.

The half-day workshop and information session will be held on Tuesday 22 April 2008 at Manuka Oval, Manuka Circle, Manuka ACT. For more details, see the workshop outline and the invitation.

Sitzler awarded certificate of accreditation
14 March 2008

The Federal Safety Commissioner (FSC), Tom Fisher, recently presented Sitzler Pty Ltd with a certificate of accreditation under the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme).

The ceremony which took place on 4March in Darwin, celebrated Sitzler’s achievement in gaining accreditation.

During the presentation Tom noted the potential to return three dollars or more for every dollar spent on ensuring effective OHS. He said “Getting accredited makes good business sense, particularly here in the NT where Australian Government projects add to a total value of over $1 billion dollars. Of course, there is also the added bonus that through accreditation you’re demonstrating a clear commitment to improving OHS in this industry.”

With 79 companies accredited under the Scheme to date, the FSC and his Office are well underway in driving cultural change in the industry.

Pictured: Tom Fisher presenting Steve Margetic from Sitzler Pty Ltd with a certificate of accreditation

FSC announces health initiative
22 February 2008

The Federal Safety Commissioner, Tom Fisher, today announced the release of his health initiative during a speech to the Australian Institute of Building (AIB) 'Construct 2008' conference. The health initiative targets two of the leading health concerns in the building and construction industry: mental health and sun safety. The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner will also continue to work with industry to identify and address other major health issues in the industry.

The OFSC has developed several products for accredited companies. A poster and wallet cards co-branded with beyondblue are aimed at helping men recognise depression in themselves or their mates, and raising awareness of the help available. The OFSC has also developed a poster to remind construction site workers to use sunscreen. The poster will be provided to accredited companies with a pump pack of sunscreen for use at their sites.

Speaking at the AIB conference, the FSC said 'Our aim with these products is to make it easier for industry - easier to regularly wear sunscreen and easier to provide avenues for professional help available.'

Copies of the posters and the card are available by phoning the FSC Assist Line on 1800 652 500 or emailing ofsc@deewr.gov.au.

Release of the Federal Safety Commissioner’s 2006-07 Progress Report
31 January 2008

The Federal Safety Commissioner’s (FSC) 2006-2007 Progress Report has just been released. The report provides information about the implementation of the Australian Government’s OHS reform agenda in the building and construction industry.

The report includes analysis of the OHS performance of companies accredited under the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme).

Results to date show encouraging signs that OHS initiatives in the building and construction industry are starting to have a positive effect. For example, companies accredited under the Scheme have shown a significant reduction in Lost Time Injury Frequency Rates and Medically Treated Injury Frequency Rates.

A copy of the report can be requested by phoning the FSC assist line on 1800 652 500 or through email at ofsc@dewr.gov.au.

Two more OFSC Case Studies released
30 January 2008

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) has released two more case studies detailing initiatives that have been used to address OHS issues. One of these case studies, released on the FSC website in December 2007, outlines a health and safety management system specifically developed to manage safety in a multi-disciplined organisation. Another, released in July 2007, describes a site safety management plan used to address the hazards and risks on the Broadway Shopping Centre redevelopment project.

The OFSC now features nine case studies which share practical ideas to assist the building and construction industry in their management of OHS issues. The OFSC will continue to work with industry to provide a range of case studies covering small, medium and large projects, including civil and commercial construction projects, and covering a range of sub-sectors.

The OFSC invites interested parties to contact us about potential case studies.

View the OFSC case studies.

OFSC sponsors the CRC for Construction Innovation international conference
31 January 2008

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) is the Silver sponsor of the Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation Third International Conference, 'Clients driving innovation: benefiting from innovation'. Full details of the conference, to be held 12-14 March on the Gold Coast, are available on the conference website.

Master Builders International Conference 2007
03 December 2007

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) recently participated in the Master Builders International Conference held on the Gold Coast from 8 to 10 November 2007. The conference had over 1100 delegates participating in the event. The programme featured a range of seminars including skills shortages facing the industry; industrial relations changes; innovations in design; dispute resolution techniques; environmental considerations and economic factors affecting the industry. The OFSC had a booth at the conference expo with staff members on hand to answer any questions from the delegates.

Tom Fisher, Federal Safety Commissioner (FSC), delivered a seminar titled, ‘Leaders in Safety and Cultural Change’. This seminar detailed the importance of leading the way in safety in the industry and provided information on how leaders in the industry could set an example by promoting positive safety beliefs. His presentation generated much discussion among delegates who were particularly interested in how the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme) impacts on head contractors across Australia.

The conference culminated with the Master Builders Australia National Building and Construction Awards 2007. The FSC presented his award to Richard Crookes Constructions Pty Ltd for their commitment to OHS on the Homebush Bay Substation Redevelopment Stage 2. Despite an elevated hazard profile, the project was completed with zero work injuries. The construction of a switch building, cable pathways and a new transformer bay required workers to be exposed to the risks associated with working in an active substation. High-risk activities, including a requirement for asbestos removal from old conduits and duct work, were identified before the project commenced and procedures were put in place to undertake the work safely.

Tender opens for Federal Safety Officers
16 November 2007

The OFSC invites tenders from suitably qualified and experienced OHS auditors to join its panel for OHS auditing services for the Scheme. Companies and individuals are encouraged to apply.

OHS auditors will be engaged as consultants to the Federal Safety Commissioner, and appointed as Federal Safety Officers for a period until 19 December 2009.

For more information, visit our Tenders page.

OFSC releases updated Fact Sheets
16 October 2007

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) has released new and updated fact sheets on the Scheme.

The OFSC fact sheets provide guidance and information on the background, objectives and current initiatives of the OFSC and are distributed through our website, at relevant conferences, meetings, exhibition booths and on request.

The newly released and updated fact sheets include:

Updated

The Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme

New

Amendments to Act receive Royal Assent
25 September 2007

The amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Act 2005 have received Royal Assent on 24 September 2007 by His Excellency Major General Michael Jeffery AC CVO MC, the Governor-General of Australia.

The amendments, introduced by the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (OHS) Bill 2007, allow for the application of the Scheme to projects indirectly funded by the Australian Government, subject to certain thresholds.

The Bill also makes technical amendments to:

require head contractors to be accredited when they sign contracts for projects covered by the Scheme and while undertaking work covered by the Scheme;
streamline the process of appointing Federal Safety Officers; and
allow the Federal Safety Commissioner and persons working in the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner to disclose information on the Scheme to the Minister.

The Regulations that accompany the Act and provide for the operation of the Scheme will be available shortly.

Changes to the Scheme will take effect from 1 October 2007.

For further information about the Scheme, phone the FSC Assist Line on 1800 652 500 or read the Stage Two fact sheet.

The Hon Joe Hockey MP launches the Guide to Best Practice for Safer Construction
14 September 2007

Minister Hockey highlighted the importance of safety on Australian construction sites in his launch of the Guide to Best Practice for Safer Construction, and commended the building and construction industry for its development of the guide to support safety in construction.

Minister Hockey launched the guide at an event in Mural Hall at Parliament House on Wednesday, 12 September 2007. The launch was attended by heads of the industry including prominent supporters of the guide and speakers at the launch: Mr Bill Wild, Chair, Engineers Australia Taskforce for Construction Safety, and Mr Damien Hertslet, Chief Operating Officer, Bovis Lend Lease. Dr Keith Hampson, Chief Executive Officer, Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Construction Innovation, a collaborator on the development of the guide, introduced the speakers.

The guide was authored by the Safer Construction Taskforce, comprising Engineers Australia and the CRC for Construction Innovation which includes industry representatives and academia. The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner was an observer on the taskforce and supported the industry’s effort to develop their own safety initiative. In addition, the Federal Safety Commissioner’s Safety Principles are incorporated into the guide.

In the guide, safety practices are applied to the main stages of a construction project. Tasks and examples illustrate how safety can be introduced and sustained in a construction project. The guide also highlights the importance of all stakeholders – clients, designers and constructors, and their subcontractors – collaborating to ensure better safety.

OHS Bill passes Senate
13 September 2007

The Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (OHS) Bill 2007 (the Bill) was passed in the Senate today.

The Bill provides for the application of the Scheme to projects indirectly funded by the Australian Government, subject to certain thresholds.

The Bill also makes technical amendments to:

require head contractors to be accredited when they sign contracts for projects covered by the Scheme and while undertaking work covered by the Scheme;
streamline the process of appointing Federal Safety Officers; and
allow the Federal Safety Commissioner and persons working in the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner to disclose information on the Scheme to the Minister.

Changes to the Scheme will take effect from 1 October 2007. The associated Regulations will be available shortly.

For further information about the Scheme, phone the FSC Assist Line on 1800 652 500.

OHS Bill passes House of Representatives
11 September 2007

The Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (OHS) Bill 2007 (the Bill) was passed in the House of Representatives today.

It is anticipated that the Bill will now be presented to the Senate on 13 September 2007.

The Bill provides for the application of the Scheme to projects indirectly funded by the Australian Government, subject to certain thresholds.

The Bill also makes technical amendments to:

require head contractors to be accredited when they sign contracts for projects covered by the Scheme and while undertaking work covered by the Scheme;
streamline the process of appointing Federal Safety Officers; and
allow the Federal Safety Commissioner and persons working in the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner to disclose information on the Scheme to the Minister.

It is intended that changes to the Scheme will take effect from 1 October 2007.

For further information see The Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (OHS) Bill 2007 fact sheet, or phone the FSC Assist Line on 1800 652 500.

Model clauses released
3 September 2007

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner has developed model clauses to assist in applying the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme from 1 October 2007.

The model clauses are intended for use by:

Australian Government agencies responsible for the procurement of building work on behalf of the Australian Government;
Australian Government agencies responsible for the delivery and management of Australian Government funding agreements, grants and programmes; and
persons who are responsible for the procurement of building work using funding provided by the Australian Government.

Specifically, the model clauses are intended for use in tender, contract and funding agreement or grant documentation.

For further information on the model clauses please contact us.

Safe Work Australia Week launched
30 August 2007

The Australian Safety and Compensation Council has made workplace
safety a national priority with the launch on 24 August of Safe Work Australia Week 2007

Scheme changes – reminder to all Australian Government agencies
7 August 2007

Agencies should be aware that changes to the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme) will occur on 1 October 2007.

These changes may impact on current Australian Government tenders that are due to be finalised on or after 1 October 2007.

On 1 October 2007, the $6 million threshold that currently applies to building and construction contracts that are directly funded by the Australian Government will be lowered to $3 million. This means that if a contract of $3 million or more is due to be signed on or after 1 October 2007, the head contractor must be accredited under the Scheme.

For further information concerning the application of the Scheme, please contact us.

Provisional accreditation expires
1 August 2007

Provisional accreditation under the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme expired for all companies on 31 July 2007. The Accreditation Register now displays only those companies who have achieved full accreditation under the Scheme.

There are currently 34 companies who have achieved full accreditation, with a number of companies also currently undergoing the accreditation assessment process. It is encouraging to see the effort and commitment of companies to date not only in applying for accreditation, but continuously working to improve their systems of OHS management.

As those with provisional accreditation expire, it is expected that the Register of accredited companies will decrease in the short term. It should be noted however that the number of companies who are currently undergoing the full accreditation process is increasing, and as companies achieve full accreditation they will be included on the Register.

Australian Government agencies

As provisional accreditation expires it is suggested that client agencies who have proposed tenders or are about to enter into contracts with building and construction companies, regularly inspect the Accreditation Register to determine the accreditation status of companies you are dealing with.

Should your preferred company not be listed on the Register, you should contact the OFSC as soon as practicable to seek advice or further details on the accreditation process.

If at all possible, those applications from companies who are being considered for building and construction contracts where accreditation is a pre-requisite will be given a high priority in the processing of their application.

For further information please contact us.

FSC launches Leaders in Safety
31 July 2007

Federal Safety Commissioner Tom Fisher has urged senior managers in the building and construction industry to set an example to their employees, by committing to a safety culture on Australian building sites.

The FSC launched the new guide, Leaders in Safety, at the Workers Compensation and Safety Conference 2007 in Sydney.

Leaders in Safety: A guide to developing senior management safety behaviours in the building and construction industry, stresses that leaders and senior managers can change cultures by paying careful, systematic attention to their workplace cultures and by their commitment to decreasing deaths and injuries on construction sites.

Leaders in Safety provides practical guidance for senior managers to adopt, introduce, promote and maintain safety behaviours.

The guide covers case studies from Australian companies, with ‘key learning’ data as well as chapters on changing specific mind sets or behaviours (‘cultures’) which inhibit or exclude safety behaviours.

In his safety message to senior managers, the FSC asks for demonstrated commitment to safety; the integration of safe design principles into the risk assessment process; whole-of-project consultation and communication; demonstrated subcontractor OHS management; whole-of-project performance measurement; and training.

Leaders in Safety reflects the FSC’s Safety Principles and Guidance, released in September 2006.

Read Leaders in Safety

Client agency seminar
15 June 2007

On 7 June 2007 the OFSC held a successful Client Agency Seminar at University House, Australian National University. Over 20 client agencies were represented at the event, launched by the FSC Tom Fisher.

The OFSC’s Director of Accreditation, Terasa Cremer, gave an overview of the OFSC and in particular spoke about the vision of the FSC for world-class safety throughout the building and construction industry. Ms Cremer went on to introduce and discuss the initiatives the FSC is pursuing to realise this vision.

OFSC Scheme Development Team Director, Matt Gardiner, gave a brief overview of the proposed Stage 2 legislation before Federal Safety Officer Trevor Love gave a presentation on auditing from an FSO’s perspective.

The Model Client Initiative was then introduced by Assistant Director of Accreditation, Helen Cooper. She spoke about the initiative itself and why it was set up, before handing over to the representative from the Department of Finance and Administration, Mr Greg Whalan, who spoke about the Mint refurbishment, one of the projects participating in this initiative.

The seminar concluded with Ms Cooper providing information about the model client resources the OFSC is currently developing in consultation with RMIT.

There was a high level of positive feedback from those who attended the seminar, with particular praise given to the clarity and professionalism of the presenters.

Seminar series launched
6 June 2007

The OFSC launched its 2007 Seminar Series in Canberra on 5 June.

The seminars are aimed at informing relevant government agencies and industry participants about Stage Two of the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme.

Separate sessions are being held for government (commencing 2.00pm) and industry (commencing 4.00pm).

Registration for seminars is still open. Registrations may be made using the Seminar Series Registration Form or by calling the FSC Assist Line on 1800 652 500.

Dates for the remaining seminars are as follows:

Sydney: 13 June
Brisbane: 14 June
Darwin: 18 June
Perth: 19 June
Adelaide: 21 June
Melbourne: 26 June
Hobart: 27 June

Information on the seminars and details of seminar locations is provided on the Seminar Series Registration Form.

Amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Improvement (Accreditation Scheme) Regulations 2005
25 May 2007

Amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Improvement (Accreditation Scheme) Regulations 2005 (the Regulations) commenced on 25 May 2007.

Regulation 24 specifies contracts to which the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme) does not apply.

New regulation 24(d) specifies that, subject to Federal Safety Commissioner (FSC) approval, the Scheme does not apply to contracts between the Australian Government and a contractor where:

the contractor will not carry out any building work (for example, the contractor is not a builder but is instead a developer or consortium); and
the contractor agrees to only use an accredited builder/s to carry out building work.

The effect of new regulation 24(d) is that the FSC may determine, on a case by case basis, that persons such as developers and consortiums do not require accreditation under the Scheme.

To view these and other regulations relevant to the Scheme, please visit our Legislation page.

OFSC national seminar series
24 May 2007

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner will conduct a national Seminar Series in June 2007. The purpose of the Seminar Series is to inform government officials and industry members about changes to the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme).

Two seminars will be held in each capital city. The first seminar will provide specific information for officials at all levels of government who are involved with the procurement of building and construction work that has received funding from the Australian Government.

The second seminar will provide specific information of building and construction industry participants. This seminar will focus predominately on Stage Two of the Scheme, accreditation, and reporting requirements.

The seminars will run for approximately one hour including an opportunity for questions.

The Seminar Series registration form contains information about dates, locations and venues. For further information or to register please contact us.

New OFSC Case Studies released
18 May 2007

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) released three more case studies detailing initiatives that have been used to address OHS issues. One of these case studies details the site safety plan used to address the hazards and risks on the STAT-EAST Works project. Another describes a solution for increasing the level of fall protection in formwork construction. The third case study outlines a programme for encouraging a positive health and safety culture amongst employees and subcontractors.

The seven OFSC case studies share practical ideas that can be adopted by industry to assist in their management of OHS issues. The OFSC will continue to work with industry to provide a range of case studies covering small, medium and large projects, including civil and commercial construction projects, and covering a range of sub-sectors.

The OFSC invites interested parties to contact us about potential case studies, so please contact us if you have an innovative safety initiative.

View the OFSC case studies.

Minister presents certificates of full Accreditation
4 April 2007

On Tuesday 3 April 2007 the Hon Joe Hockey MP, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, presented certificates for achieving full accreditation under the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme to twelve companies at a ceremony in Sydney.

The presentation included opening remarks from Tom Fisher, the Federal Safety Commissioner, some introductory comments from Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer, Master Builders Australia Inc and a short speech by Minister Hockey. Minister Hockey then presented certificates to representatives from the twelve companies that have achieved full accreditation under the Scheme. A number of senior executives from other major construction companies that have applied for full accreditation also attended the event.

Minister Hockey congratulated the companies and said that companies that are fully accredited have demonstrated that they meet the six focus points of the Scheme, which are:

tangible senior management commitment to OHS;
integration of design issues into the risk management process;
whole-of-project consultation and communication;
effective management of subcontractor OHS arrangements;
whole-of-project performance measurement; and
ensuring all workers are suitably trained and competent in OHS.

He also noted that their past OHS performance was also taken into account.

Read the Media Release which includes the list of fourteen companies that have achieved full accreditation.

View the Accreditation Register

Minister Hockey with FSC Tom Fisher and representatives of the accredited companies

FSC Tom Fisher and Minister Hockey address guests at the event

Introduction of the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (OHS) Bill 2007
2 April 2007

Amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Act 2005 were introduced into Parliament on 29 March 2007 under the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment (OHS) Bill 2007.

The Bill reinforces the Australian Government's commitment to improving OHS performance in the building and construction industry.

The Bill fulfils this commitment by applying the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme) to situations where building work is indirectly funded by the Commonwealth or a Commonwealth authority.

The amendments simplify the Federal Safety Commissioner’s process for engaging Federal Safety Officers. They also allow the Federal Safety Commissioner and his staff to disclose certain OHS information relating to the Scheme to the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations.

For more information, see the fact sheet - The Building and Construction Industry Improvement Amendment Bill (OHS) Bill 2007.

A detailed explanation of the amendments can be viewed on the Parliament of Australia website.

Site visit to HMAS Creswell
12 April 2007

Representatives from the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) accompanied a number of Department of Defence personnel on a site visit to the HMAS Creswell Redevelopment Project at Jervis Bay on Wednesday 28 March 2007.

Defence is participating in the OFSC model client initiative and nominated the HMAS Creswell Redevelopment as a suitable project. The HMAS Creswell Redevelopment aims to provide enhanced training facilities, upgraded infrastructure and engineering services, new and refurbished accommodation and upgraded physical fitness and waterfront facilities. Further details of the redevelopment will be available as the project plans are finalised and submitted to the Parliamentary Works Committee.

The visit to HMAS Creswell provided an opportunity to view the site prior to the commencement of work. The visit also enabled OFSC representatives to gain a better understanding of the specific needs and requirements factored into the redevelopment process.

The model client initiative was developed by the OFSC and plays a key role in the Australian Government’s strategy to improve OHS performance in the building and construction industry. The chief objective of the model client initiative is to raise awareness of OHS and champion good practices and innovative solutions.

HMAS Creswell clock tower

Leak stop repair training unit at HMAS Creswell

Refurbishment under way at the Royal Australian Mint
6 March 2007

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, the Hon Chris Pearce MP, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance and Administration, Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck, officially marked the commencement of major refurbishment works at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra on 26 February 2007.

The refurbishment project, which is being undertaken with Australian Government funding of approximately $41.2 million, is scheduled to be finished in 2009.

The Mint has accepted an invitation from the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner to participate in its ‘model client initiative’, with the refurbishment project being a showcase for occupational health and safety management in the construction industry.

Pictured: Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Administration, the Hon Chris Pearce MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer and Tom Fisher, Federal Safety Commissioner. Photo courtesy of the Royal Australian Mint

ASCC releases updated fact sheets
2 March 2007

The Australian Safety and Compensation Council have announced the release of revised priority industry fact sheets. The fact sheets relate to a range of industries, including construction. To find out more, visit the ASCC website.

Note to all Provisionally Accredited companies
30 January 2007

Please ensure that your company has applied for full accreditation prior to your provisional accreditation expiry date.

Should you apply after your provisional accreditation has expired, your company will need to submit a completely new application addressing all criteria including each of the six focus points in Section 7.

For more information, see the fact sheet - Transition from Provisional to Full Accreditation. If you have any enquiries, please contact us.

OFSC Case Studies released today
8 January 2007

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) is working with the building and construction industry to develop case studies on initiatives that have been used to address OHS issues. The OFSC case studies share practical ideas that can be adopted by industry to assist in their management of OHS issues.

In addition to the case studies published in October 2006, the OFSC has released two more publications. One of these case studies details the safety index used on the upgrade of the Tullamarine and Calder freeway junction. The other case study describes a work life balance programme that has been implemented through feedback received from employees at a construction company. These case studies were released today.

The OFSC will continue to work with industry to provide a range of case studies covering small, medium and large projects, including civil and commercial construction projects, and covering a range of sub-industries.

The OFSC invites interested parties to contact us about potential case studies, so please let us know if you have an innovative safety initiative.

View the OFSC case studies.

Amendments to the Regulations
5 January 2007

Amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Regulations 2005 came into effect on 16 December 2006. The new subregulations 8.1A and 8.1B enable the Federal Safety Commissioner to record and disclose what is otherwise protected information in the following circumstances:

the information relates to the building work of an accredited person;
it is in the public interest to disclose that information;
the information would assist a Commonwealth agency or authority to assess the suitability of accredited persons when entering into Commonwealth building Contracts; and/or
the accredited person to whom the information relates has consented to the recording and disclosure of the information.

To view these and other regulations relevant to the Building and Construction Industry Improvement Act 2005, visit our Legislation page.

New fact sheets now available
11 December 2006

Fact sheets are now available on a range of topics relating to the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner. These can be downloaded directly from this website as PDF files. If you would like a hard copy of any of the fact sheets, please contact us.

View the fact sheets

Federal Safety Commissioner’s National Excellence in OHS Award 2006
20 November 2006

Federal Safety Commissioner, Tom Fisher, presented the National Excellence in OHS Award at the Master Builders’ National Awards in Canberra on 10 November 2006.

The winner was A W Edwards Pty Limited for the STAT-EAST works of the Epping to Chatswood railway line, Macquarie Park Station.

The hazards that confronted A W Edwards in undertaking work in an underground tunnel were significant and included working at height within the tunnel and the need to constantly monitor air quality and velocity.

Overall the judges were impressed with the very strong commitment to safety demonstrated and the quality of OHS documentation. Importantly, on the ground, the documents were given practical effect.

Mr Wilhelm Harnisch, CEO of Master Builders Australia, said that the safety of workers in the building and construction industry is of paramount importance, and Master Builders Australia were proud to offer this award in conjunction with the Federal Safety Commissioner.

Grocon commits to FSC Safety Principles
27 October 2006

Grocon Pty Ltd has committed its support for the Federal Safety Commissioner’s Safety Principles and Guidance.

In a speech at the launch of Safe Work Australia Week in Melbourne on 23 October, Mr Michael Loterzo, General Manager, Legal, Risk and Southern States Operations, spoke of the importance that Grocon places on safety.

It is a core business value across the Grocon Group, from the Board through to design consultants and prospective employees, in the letting of subcontracts and in training.

‘Safety should not be considered a cost to the business, instead safety as a core business value may in fact provide a competitive advantage rather than competing upon price alone’, he said.

Michael Loterzo, General Manager, Legal, Risk and Southern States Operations, Grocon Pty Ltd

Minister Andrews announces Stage Two of the Scheme at Safe Work Australia Week launch
24 October 2006

At the launch of Safe Work Australia Week on 23 October 2006, the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, the Hon Kevin Andrews MP, announced the extension of the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (the Scheme) to indirectly funded construction work and a reduction in the threshold for directly funded work.