WORKCOVER NSW has announced new safety controls for the operation of major hazard facilities across the state, in a bid to reduce the risk of major incidents and limit their consequences.
The Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (Major Hazard Facilities) Regulation 2008 could apply to more than 30 facilities.
Major hazard facilities include oil refineries, chemical processing plants, liquefied petroleum gas depots and large chemical warehouses containing hazardous chemicals and explosives.
Starting from 14 July 2008, the amended regulation requires any site classed as a major hazard facility to provide a safety report on the measures being taken to ensure the safe operation of the facility. They will also need to have a safety management system, security plan and emergency plan.
According to the safety authority, the regulation is part of the push toward the standardisation of national safety legislation.
Major hazard facilities and facilities requiring clarification of their status as a major hazard facility need to notify WorkCover by December 2008.
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