As we approach World Day for Safety and Health at Work, it's important to acknowledge the vital role unions have played in revolutionizing workplace health and safety (WHS) standards in Australia. In the 19th century, workplaces were hazardous, with poor ventilation, excessive heat, and unguarded machines. Unions and progressive reformers began advocating for change, leading to the introduction of basic factory and shop acts from the 1880s.
The 1970s-80s saw a significant surge in union-led WHS campaigning, resulting in comprehensive agreements that gave workers unprecedented rights to be consulted and involved in monitoring workplace safety. Under the Accord with the Hawke government, unions pushed for national WHS coordination and standard-setting.
Even under hostile governments, union campaigning has delivered significant wins for workers, such as securing billions in asbestos compensation from corporate wrongdoers like James Hardie in the 2000s. The harmonized Model WHS laws, adopted in most states and territories since 2010, have been a major step forward.
However, there is still much work to be done. A recent Work Shouldn't Hurt survey revealed that 80% of respondents had suffered a work-related injury or illness, with psychological injury becoming an increasing concern. Psychosocial hazards, such as excessive workloads, poor support, and lack of role clarity, can lead to serious mental health issues. Addressing these hazards requires a proactive approach, including risk assessments, control measures, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
In October 2022, new regulations came into effect in several jurisdictions, explicitly requiring employers to identify and manage psychosocial hazards. While this is a significant step forward in protecting workers' psychological health, proper enforcement and worker empowerment are crucial.
Unions will continue organizing and campaigning for stronger health and safety protections, both physical and psychological, but they need the support of their members to carry on the fight started by union forebears over a century ago.