Here are some pithy comments from a very well-respected legal colleague on a position articulated by someone who should know better: “It is entirely illogical (if not plainly idiotic) to suggest that on one hand a PCBU should be able to rely on the expertise of a contractor in relation to work which the PCBU … Read more
On 25-26 May 2022, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will host Australia’s biggest and brightest minds in health and safety for the Workplace Health & Safety Show 2022 (that includes me!). My session titled “Baiada 10 Years On” will look at what has changed in the contractor safety management space since this landmark case. … Read more
Western Australian District Court Judge Troy Sweeney has confirmed the importance of clearly delineating the work of contractors and coordination of that work by a Principal Contractor and confirms that a Principal Contractor is not responsible for directing the methods of work of those contractors. The case is very very long but very very good … Read more
To all my facilities management colleagues I am presenting at the FM Association Conference. Hope to see you there. Click here for more information Sue
In a recent case, two employers, a Principal Contractor and a Contractor, were fined after a worker was killed when operating a pile driver. Why was the Principal Contractor prosecuted and fined I ask? As usual, the Principal Contractor got themselves involved in the work methods of the contractor When pile driving the contractor’s worker … Read more
I was helping a client out today explaining the health directives requiring covid 19 vaccinations to attend work and thought I would share it. To confirm no State in Australia has legislated to mandate covid 19 vaccinations (or in fact any vaccination) i.e. if you are working from home and have no contact with others … Read more
Spots to attend a webinar held by LinkSafe online contractor management system featuring moi.. “sold” out in 30 minutes. We are organising some more, so stay tuned…
“The contention that a Principal Contractor is responsible for the methods of work employed by an independent contractor, including their management of safety in respect of that work is one of the greatest health and safety myths of all time. Sue Bottrell Lawyer/ Chartered OHS Professional
I was recently asked to comment on the proposed regulation of the management of psychological harm in HROnline. See the article below. Enjoy! Worker’s comp claim could open the floodgates for remote staff to claim psychological injury – HRM online
Please see my comments regarding the tragedy that is MT Sheds, following the sentencing of the owner and Director yesterday. Employer receives jail time for workplace death – HRM online