DPI Update (Issue 26)

Management of OH&S in the earth resources industry

An inquiry is being conducted by Neil Pope, a former parliamentarian, to:

• Investigate and report on OHS performance in the industry
• Make recommendations on the future management of the system
• Consider the effectiveness of DPI as an OHS regulator, the possibility of WorkCover managing the system, synergies with other DPI responsibilities and national developments in safety.

This is a profoundly significant issue which directly affects our Member’s employee’s health and safety.

Furthermore, the CMPA understands that safety compliance requires diligent participation of the regulator, owner and employees.

In the most, Members (excluding a few who are frustrated by the DPI’s tough stance) feel that the Department’s evolutionary approach to managing safety proactively over the last five years has been justified.

Changing the present system is an adventure that the majority of our members are unwilling to return to or partake in.

It is assumed that the intent of any change is to benefit the industry and the general community, not just cut costs. It would be deeply concerning if in five years from any change to the status quo, there was a marked deterioration of safety and environmental outcomes of our sector.

Key points discussed in the Association’s submission included:

• The construction materials sector in Victoria and the CMPA
• Comparison of safety outcomes
• Vocational training
• Level playing field for financing OHS outcomes
• Deterioration of the regulating of our sector
• Industry acceptance of its safety responsibilities

The CMPA’s position is that the DPI should continue the regulatory management of OHS in the extractive industries.

The full submission is available from the CMPA website.
www.cmpavic.asn.au

You must be logged in to post a comment Login