Employers are legally required to provide a safe work environment, identify and manage risks, ensure proper training for workers, and comply with applicable workplace health and safety laws and regulations, such as the Work Health and Safety Act in Australia.

Safety training should be conducted during onboarding, when new equipment or processes are introduced, after changes to safety policies, and at regular intervals (e.g., annually) to refresh knowledge.

An emergency plan should include evacuation procedures, emergency contact details, roles and responsibilities, first aid arrangements, and how to communicate effectively during emergencies such as fires, spills, or medical incidents.

Lead by example, involve employees in safety decisions, recognise and reward safe behaviors, provide regular training, and maintain open communication about safety concerns and improvements.

Yes, if your business has a certain number of employees (e.g., in Australia, businesses with more than five workers typically need a documented policy). A written policy demonstrates your commitment to health and safety, outlines responsibilities, and provides a framework for managing risks.

Respond immediately to ensure safety, provide first aid if needed, report the incident as required by law, investigate the cause, and implement measures to prevent recurrence. Maintain accurate records for compliance and review.

Verify contractors’ safety credentials, provide an induction on your site-specific safety rules, review their SWMS or safety documentation, and monitor their activities to ensure adherence to your health and safety standards.