Occupational Safety and Health Act and Systems in Australia - Essay Example

OHS systems consist of arranging elements that, in combination, help to prevent work-related injury and illness. Such a system presents a model which incorporates the essentials of an effective process for managing health and safety risks. As such, it is a tool for use by the management of any organization. The use of these systems is not mandatory under health and safety legislation in Australia and, conversely, using an OHS does not, on its own, assure compliance with legislative requirements.

It is, however, recommended as a means by which organizations can improve their management of health and safety (Mol, p 29). Organizations of all different kinds and sizes can benefit from the adoption of a range of effective OHS management actions, and a systematic approach in this can optimize the outcomes for all parties such as employers, workers, and all others affected by the work. OHS system can be used by an organization wishing to develop, implement, improve or audit its activities aimed at preventing and controlling health and safety risks.

Many different OHS systems are available. Some have been formulated by OHS authorities and other government departments; others are proprietary systems developed by OHS consultants. All of them attempt to provide a systematic approach to OHS management (Mol, p 30). Organizations should be able to reduce workplace injury and illness and minimize the costs associated with workplace accidents. Undertaking this process should help satisfy ethical concerns and industrial relations considerations, as well as helping to demonstrate that the organization is exercising due diligence in fulfilling its duty of care (Mol, p 32).

Gloria Thai Restaurant is designed to meet the daily needs of citizens in Australia. The restaurant can be found virtually in all towns and cities across Australia. According to the manager, what motivates the business to provide a healthy and safe workplace to its employees is the need to retain professional personnel to provide quality service to the restaurant's customers. Health workplace for the employees will ensure that the restaurant gains a competitive advantage over its competitors.