Changes to the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 in November last year will impact on the leisure and amusement industry from 1 January 2007 WHSQ general manager Judy Bertram said recently.

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) has advised that the erection, dismantling and repair of certain types of amusement devices now fall within the definition of ‘construction work’ under the amended Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995.

Bertram said the changes will affect businesses engaged in the erection, dismantling or repair of amusement devices incorporating a mast, tower or devices that are steel constructions such as roller coasters.

“WHSQ is advising the industry now so that people are prepared for the beginning of enforcement activity in relation to this work from 1 January 2007.”

Until then WHSQ will focus on construction regulations that link directly with the management of risk (eg. workers having protection from falling more than 2m).

Bertram said from 1 January 2007, the provisions for construction safety plans (where the work is over AUS$120,000), work method statements for high risk construction activity and safety induction requirement will be enforced to the full extent of the legislation.

“This will give people time to implement any new procedures they need to meet the requirements,” Bertram said.

Further information on the changes is available by phoning +61 1300 369 915.