The NSW Occupational Health & Safety Act was introduced to ensure the health, safety and welfare of people both at work and at workplaces. Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) covers employees, employers, contractors and visitors to the workplace.

Woollahra Council regards OH&S as an integral part of the Council's business operations, and as such is committed to the reduction and control of accidents which can result in injury to employees, contractors, suppliers or customers.

Woollahra Council considers OH&S to be both an individual and a shared accountability. Employees at all levels are responsible for ensuring that all work is carried out in the safest manner.

It is essential that all candidates are aware of their responsibilities under OH&S legislation. Questions regarding OH&S may be asked during the interview.

Employer responsibilities

Council aims to:

• Recognise and work within the bounds of all relevant State and National Occupational Health and Safety, and Workers Compensation legislation and regulations.
• Maintain a comprehensive Health and Safety Prevention Program.
• Maintain effective processes and procedures in relation to the use, handling, storage and transport of materials, equipment and substances hazardous to the health of employees.
• Provide safe work facilities wherever practical, including the provision of appropriate personal protective equipment.

Employee responsibilities

• Take all necessary steps to prevent injury to themselves, fellow employees and others affected by their actions or omissions at work.
• Understand and follow Council operating procedures.
• Immediately report any incidents that have or that may lead to injury or damage.
• Ensuring that they use any equipment provided in accordance with the training and instruction they have received.
• Immediately reporting any serious or imminent danger they detect in relation to the equipment they have been provided with or the machinery with which they are working.
• In the absence of a supervisor or manager, ceasing work and proceeding to a place of safety in the event of being exposed to serious, imminent or unavoidable danger.