Industry codes of practice provide practical guidance and advice on how to achieve the standard required by the Act and regulation. Codes of practice are developed through consultation with representatives from industry, workers and employers, special interest groups and government agencies.
Codes of practice are made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and must be approved by the Minister for Commerce before they come into effect.
A code of practice is not law, but it should be followed unless there is an alternative course of action that achieves the same or better standards.
Employers, workers, designers, manufacturers and suppliers should use the code of practice in conjunction with the Act and regulation.
Evidence of failure to observe an industry code of practice may be used as evidence in proceedings for an offence under the Act. However, a person is not liable simply because of a failure to observe the code.
To correct an alleged breach of the Act or regulation, a person or organisation must follow the advice and information provided in the code of practice if directed by a Workcover inspector.