WHS Management Systems

WHS Management Systems

More than just ticking a box.

It’s a set of documents for systematically managing WHS.

The basics:

A WHS Management System is a set of WHS documents (policies, plans, and procedures) to systematically manage WHS risks, meet WHS legal and other requirements, and to continually improve their WHS performance.

Ultimately, the objective of a WHS Management System is to provide a safe working environment.

Key elements:

Policies: sets the organisations intentions, directions, and commitments for WHS.

Plan: outlines the high-level arrangements for managing WHS such as WHS responsibilities, training and awareness, communication and consultation, risk management processes, hazard and incident management, monitor and review, and continuous improvement.

Standards: outlines minimum requirements and guidelines for managing WHS risks.

Procedures: outlines the specific ways to carry out an activity or process.

Forms, Templates and Registers: documents to enable required activities or processes.

Pro tips:

Structure the WHS Management System in logical order (set the intent and directions first; followed by outlining the: high -level arrangements, risk specific requirements, hazard and incident processes, monitoring processes; and lastly outline the continuous improvement processes).

Tailor the management system to your organisation and ensure it is fit for purpose.

Don’t set and forget. It needs to be implemented, monitored, and continuously improved.

Consult the team when developing and reviewing.

Lead by example and empower the team to actively engage in WHS management including continuous improvement opportunities.