Navigating your health and safety obligations
At Hentys Lawyers, we understand the complexities of OH&S legislation when combined with Employment, Criminal and Workers’ Compensation legislation and provide specialised legal guidance to help employers across Australia navigate their legal and business obligations effectively. From developing compliance strategies to representing clients in the event of a workplace incident, Hentys Lawyers is your trusted partner in creating a safe, compliant workplace.
Workplace Accident Investigations and Assessments
In the unfortunate event of a workplace accident, a swift and thorough investigation is essential to determine the cause, prevent future incidents, ensure compliance, and protection of the business interests. Hentys Lawyers assists employers in conducting and participating in these investigations, guiding evidence gathering, employee interviews, and documentation. Our legal team also assesses the findings, helping you understand the implications and advising on necessary corrective actions. By working closely with your business, we aim to minimise disruptions and ensure your response aligns with the protection of your interests, legal obligations and best practices.
OH&S Policies and Procedures
Effective policies and procedures form the foundation of OH&S compliance. Hentys Lawyers works with you to develop or review OH&S policies that address hazard identification, Safe Operating Procedures (SOPs), Safe Working Method Statements (SWMS), incident reporting, emergency response, and risk management. We ensure these policies comply with OH&S legislation and are practical and easy to implement. Establishing clear guidelines fosters a culture of safety and accountability, reducing the likelihood of workplace incidents and providing a strong defence should legal issues arise.
Risk and Hazard Identification Assessments
Hentys Lawyers assists employers in identifying workplace hazards through comprehensive risk assessments. Our team provides detailed guidance on recognising potential risks—such as chemical exposure, machinery safety, and even mental health stressors—and implementing mitigation measures. Each industry faces unique challenges, so we tailor our risk assessment strategies to suit your workplace environment. You can confidently address and manage risks with our support, ensuring a safer, more compliant workplace.
Training In OH&S Management and Statutory Compliance
Proper training is a cornerstone of OH&S compliance. Hentys Lawyers offers training support to help employers educate their teams on OH&S standards, statutory compliance, and safety protocols. We help design training programs that cover hazard awareness, safe work practices, emergency response, and compliance with statutory obligations. By investing in thorough training, employers can empower employees to act responsibly, creating a safer work environment and reducing the risk of accidents.
Defending OH&S Prosecution Matters
If your business faces an OH&S prosecution, Hentys Lawyers is here to provide expert defence representation. Our team has extensive experience defending employers in OH&S-related legal matters, from minor breaches to serious allegations. We analyse the details of your case, develop a strategic defence, and represent your interests throughout the proceedings. We aim to achieve the best possible outcome while minimising the impact on your business operations and reputation.
Appearing and Managing Coronial Inquests
Coronial inquests can be daunting, but with Hentys Lawyers, you can confidently navigate the process. We represent clients in coronial inquests, preparing documentation, managing evidence, and providing robust legal representation to protect your interests. Our experience in managing coronial inquests ensures that your business has the support to handle these complex and often sensitive proceedings effectively.
Legal Representation and Advisory Services
Hentys Lawyers provides strong legal representation to protect your business in case of a workplace incident or non-compliance. We offer advisory services during investigations and help resolve compliance disputes, ensuring you have a trusted partner during potentially challenging times. Our legal team is well-versed in handling and defending alleged breaches of OH&S legislation and can guide you through the investigation process, from gathering documentation to responding to inquiries from the relevant legal authority in your state and territory such as WorkSafe Victoria, SafeWork NSW, and SafeWork SA.
By engaging Hentys Lawyers, you benefit from a proactive legal approach prioritising safety, compliance, and peace of mind. Our advisory services are designed to prevent incidents before they occur, but should the unexpected happen, our legal team is here to advocate for your business and mitigate risks.
The Financial and Legal Implications of Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with OH&S legislation and regulations can have severe financial and legal consequences for businesses. Every statutory authority for OH&S law in Australia enforces strict penalties for breaches, including fines, business shutdowns, and legal action, depending on the severity of the violation. Hentys Lawyers is committed to helping employers avoid these costly repercussions through comprehensive compliance strategies and effective legal counsel.
Beyond fines, non-compliance can damage your reputation, affect employee morale, and increase insurance premiums. Our legal expertise protects your business from these risks, allowing you to focus on growth confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hentys Lawyers’ OH&S Services
- Conducting workplace investigations and assessments.
- Preparation of O/WH&S and human resources policies and procedures.
- Conducting risk identification assessments and identification of hazards.
- Providing training for all aspects of O/WH&S management systems, procedures, obligations and statutory compliance.
- Providing statutory and regulatory compliance advice.
- Injury and accident investigation and reporting.
- Preparation of occupational rehabilitation and return to work programming instruments.
- Guidance on O/WH&S Management Systems.
- Preparation and review of Safe Operating Procedures and Safe Working Method Statements.
- Defending O/WH&S prosecutions issued by regulators and appearing in Coronial Inquests.
- Providing legal briefings to Executives and Boards.
Why Choose Hentys Lawyers for OH&S Compliance?
Hentys Lawyers brings years of specialised experience in OH&S law and a deep understanding of the legal landscape at a National level. We are committed to providing personalised support, ensuring clients benefit from a tailored compliance strategy that addresses their unique needs. With Hentys Lawyers as your OH&S compliance partner, you gain access to:
- Specialised Knowledge: Our team has extensive experience with OH&S law in Melbourne, allowing us to provide insights and solutions that are both practical and legally robust.
- Proactive Legal Support: We offer end-to-end support to protect your business from policy creation to incident response 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
- Continuous Compliance Monitoring: OH&S compliance requires ongoing attention, and we keep you informed of legislative changes and industry best practices.
Ready to move forward with your workplace health and safety?
Note: Hentys represents employers only.
For urgent WorkCover and Employment matters, please call Timothy Ashton at any time on 0416 094 174.