Late in 2011 the Department of Education stated that they will be providing additional support for Occupational Safety and Health management in schools with additional Occupational Safety and Health consultants being provided in the regions.

“Safe working environments and systems of work are a vital element of the department’s duty of care for all staff and there is a need to ensure that principals are well supported to meet their obligations in the area of occupational safety and health.”

There will be a greater focus on Occupational Safety and Health training, a systematic approach to risk assessment and control especially in the high risk areas such as design and technology and education support and more proactive support for safety representatives.

Additional staff will also be provided to more efficiently manage workplace injury through early intervention, focussed rehabilitation services and return to work programs.