Asbestos contamination found in mulch in NSW was the news headline this morning as I was sipping on my morning coffee. Article found here
The New South Wales Environemtal Protection Agency are investigating asbestos contamination found in mulch that had been delivered to multiple sites across NSW.
Recently, I’ve been thinking about the potential health risks posed by contamination during our daily activities. It’s alarming how often people unknowingly encounter substances that could lead to both short and long-term health issues.
My awareness of contamination issues dates back about six years when I was involved in a project at a manufacturing site undergoing closure. The remediation process revealed hydrocarbon-contaminated soil from fuel and oil used in manufacturing, along with historical asbestos storage due to a lack of safe disposal methods.
During the West Gate Tunnel project, polyfluoroalkyl substances were encountered during excavation, prompting concerns about the handling of contaminated soil and the impact of communities where the material would be stored long term.
Also, how my family and friends are conducting gardening activities unknowingly exposing themselves to the potential deadly Legionnaire’s disease while working with potting mix purchased from the local hardware store of gardening supply shop, right after a 73-year-old Melbourne man passed away after conducting gardening activities.
Fast forward to a year ago, I’m now working on a construction project utilizing upcycled crushed concrete for fill. This raised the question of the concrete’s origin, leading to an investigation into the supplier’s practices. It turns out the crushed concrete comes from various projects, including demolition sites.
After looking into the source of the material my findings were adequate, but in saying this, I had to make sure.
Fortunately, the company responsible for processing the concrete diligently tracks all incoming materials, conducted required testing to ensure acceptable, and holds the necessary permits and certifications for upcycling activities. This was a relief to the project management team who was relying on the product to make the job easier and avoid a potential cost blowout.
The lesson here is to be cautious when ordering materials. It’s crucial to inquire about the source and the certification of the supplier to avoid potential health and project management issues, such as cost overruns and contamination.
Systec offers a range of environmental services, if you have any questions about contamination or asbestos containing materials on your site.
Liam Cooper – OHS Consultant
WORKSAFE VICTORIA’S NEW INFRINGEMENT NOTICE SCHEME
The infringement notice scheme will act as an additional deterrent and help keep Victorian employees safe.
The obligations of employers and other duty holders under OHS laws don’t change. Employers still have a duty to provide and maintain a working environment that’s safe and without risks to health so far as is reasonably practicable.
From 31 July 2021, WorkSafe inspectors can issue infringement notices with penalties of up to 10 penalty units, or $1817.40, attached.
For more information on the infringement notice scheme visit the Worksafe Victoria Website
If you are concerned about your business being open to infringements
SysTec in conjunction with the Worksafe Victoria OHS Essentials Program offers businesses with 60 employees or less, sole traders with contractors a free independent service to help you keep your employees safe at work
The OHS Essentials Program is
- CONFIDENTAIL – Systec OHS Consultants are not employed by WorkSafe, all recommendations are kept confidential
- INDEPENDENT – Practical. tailored Safety advice from Systec Consultants
For more information on the WorkSafe OHS Essentials program please get in contact with us or send us an enquiry
Phone: (03) 9484 0086
Email: Admin@systec-pl.com.au
ENQUIRIE HERE
WorkSafe Approved HSR Refresher Course
This WorkSafe approved HSR refresher course provides an opportunity for HSRs and Deputy HSRs to revisit aspects of the HSR Initial OHS Training Course and refresh their knowledge of OHS in the workplace.
Under the OHS Act 2004 (section 67), all elected HSRs and deputy HSRs, after completing an initial course of training, have an entitlement for each year they hold office to attend a WorkSafe-approved HSR refresher OHS training course.
An employer, if requested, must allow the HSR/Deputy HSR to attend on paid time, pay the cost of the course and any other associated costs. Section 67 also allows HSRs to choose the course, in consultation with their employer.
Course Content
- The value of HSRs
- Consultation in the workplace
- Element of the legislative framework
- Risk management overview
- Duty of care
- Issue resolution
- The role of inspectors
- Safety compliance
Who should attend?
Health & Safety Representatives and Deputy Health and Safety Representatives.
Although HSRs are the primary audience; managers, supervisors, health and safety committee members and anyone else with an interest in health and safety may also benefit from attending this course.
Delivery
Delivery of this course takes place over 1 Day for 8 Hours
Our Difference
Systec are leaders in OHS compliance working in the industry for over 25 years. Our courses provide relevant information, ongoing support, and efficient delivery.
Our professional trainers have experience in and out of the classroom providing the best experience for our students and empowering them to create safer workplaces.
SysTec: Premier Technical Management and Training Services Across Australia and Asia Pacific
Founded in 1995, SysTec delivers top-tier technical management services, specializing in engineering project management, safety, quality, environmental, and training solutions across Australia and the Asia Pacific. Our expertise and commitment have made us a trusted partner for industries and government agencies.
Leading Technical Solutions & Project Management
Established by industry expert Glenn Jordan, SysTec has a proven history of managing high-impact projects and delivering technical innovation. Key achievements include designing Australia’s offshore oil and gas safety framework, developing gas and petroleum regulations for Victoria, and assisting organizations with HSEQ certifications, environmental approvals, and project construction management.
Industry-Leading Training Programs
SysTec’s training division provides cutting-edge courses in construction, engineering, WHS, and technical skills, keeping organizations and students at the forefront of industry standards. Our training programs are designed to address current workforce needs and support professional growth.
Trusted by Government and Industry
Renowned for exceptional service, SysTec partners with government departments, private companies, industry associations, and trades groups in sectors such as oil, mining, manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and education, ensuring compliance, safety, and productivity across industries.
Custom Solutions Tailored to Client Needs
At SysTec, we customize solutions to meet client-specific requirements. Our broad service offerings include:
- On-Demand Project Staffing – Skilled professionals to support project execution
- Technical Documentation & Audits – Document preparation, auditing, and compliance checks
- Management Systems & Risk Assessments – Comprehensive OHSE risk management and contractor assessments
- Environmental Services – Environmental audits, approvals, and sustainability studies
- High Hazard Industry Support – Chemical risk assessments and Dangerous Goods training
- Occupational Hygiene Services – Specialized hygiene assessments and support
- Accredited Training – VET and WorkSafe-approved courses
- Specialized Industry Surveys – Aluminum composite panel and EPS risk assessments, asbestos surveys, and clearance certifications
Experienced, Industry-Savvy Field Personnel
SysTec’s field experts are industry-experienced and highly qualified, known for providing value-driven services aligned with industry and government needs.
SysTec continues to be a leader in technical management and training, offering customized, high-quality services that meet the evolving needs of Australia and the Asia Pacific.
Health and Safety Representative Initial OHS Training Course (5 Days)
Worksafe Approved 5 Day Health and Safety Representative Course
The course is designed to enable HSR’s to develop their skills to represent the Designated Work Group (DWG) and exercise their powers to make their workplace safer under the OHS ACT.
The OHS Act 2004 provides the entitlement for a HSR to attend an initial course with pay at the employers expense . A course must be chosen by the HSR in consultation with the employer.
Our Difference
Systec are leaders in OHS compliance working in the industry for over 25 years. Our courses provide relevant information, ongoing support, and efficient delivery.
Our professional trainers have experience in and out of the classroom providing the best experience for our students and empowering them to create safer workplaces.
Learning Objectives
- Interpreting the OHS legislative framework and its relationship to the HSR
- Identifying key parties and their legislative obligations and duties
- Establishing representation in the workplace
- Participating in consultation and issue resolution
- Representing designated work group members in any OHS risk management process undertaken by the appropriate duty holder(s)
- Issuing Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) and directing cessation of work
Delivery
Delivery of this course can take place using the following formats
- 5 day intensive – Course takes place over 5 days in a week
- 2 week intensive – 3 days the 1st week and 2 Days the 2nd Week
- Standard – 5 Days over 5 weeks
- Custom / Flexible – Customised to your business operations and availability of staff
Who Should Attend
Health & Safety Representatives and Deputy Health and Safety Representatives.
Although HSRs are the primary audience, managers, supervisors, health and safety committee members and anyone else with an interest in health and safety may also benefit from attending this course.
If OHS training has not been undertaken in over 2 years, this course may be a good opportunity to update your OHS skills. (note: HSRs have only one entitlement for initial training however the absence of an entitlement does not prevent an employer who recognises the benefits of HSRs receiving training from allowing them to attend additional courses).
After completing the Worksafe Approved 5 Day Health and Safety Representative Course, HSRs and deputy HSRs can do a one-day refresher once every year. View our refresher course here.
Group discounts are available enquire now.