What are the main legal responsibilities of employers under OHS laws?

The primary legal responsibilities of employers under Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws revolve around providing a safe work environment and ensuring that employees receive adequate training to recognize and mitigate hazards. This responsibility is foundational to promoting and maintaining workplace safety and health.

Employers must implement measures that protect their employees from potential risks, which includes identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing control measures to reduce those risks. Training is also a critical component, allowing employees to understand safety protocols, use protective equipment properly, and respond appropriately in emergencies. This dual focus on a safe workplace and comprehensive training is mandated by many OHS regulations, emphasizing that employers are obligated to take proactive steps to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.

While conducting workplace audits and assessments, reporting accidents, and hiring external consultants can also play roles in supporting workplace safety, they are not the primary legal responsibilities outlined in most OHS laws. These activities may enhance a safety program, but they do not replace the fundamental requirement of ensuring a safe workplace and providing proper training to employees.