What is a WHS management system?
A WHS management system is the set of policies, procedures, responsibilities and records a business uses to manage work health and safety consistently. Australian WHS laws don't require a formal or certified system, but every business must manage risks so far as is reasonably practicable and be able to show how it does that. A well-built system is how most businesses meet that obligation.
What a WHS management system usually includes
- a WHS policy, with roles and responsibilities clearly assigned
- processes for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control
- consultation arrangements with workers and health and safety representatives
- WHS procedures, safe work instructions and training records
- incident reporting, investigation and corrective action
- monitoring, internal audits and regular management review
Larger organisations often align their system with ISO 45001, the international standard for occupational health and safety management systems. Small and medium businesses usually need something simpler that fits the way they actually work.
Training to build your system
Building a WHS Management System is a one-day online course for business owners and managers of small to medium enterprises. It covers each element above and shows how they fit together into a practical system that supports legal compliance and effective risk management.