As part of the ongoing harmonisation of work health and safety (WHS) laws, the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Qld) (2011 WHS Regulation) received approval by the Governor in Council on 24 November 2011.
The 2011 WHS Regulation covers a broad range of topics, including workplace representation and participation, general risk and workplace management, hazardous work, plant and structures, construction work, hazardous chemicals, asbestos, major hazard facilities and public health and safety.
While the transitional arrangements will mean a delayed start for some requirements, the 2011 WHS Regulation will largely come into effect on the same date as the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Qld) (2011 WHS Act), being 1 January 2012.