Leader: Ms Joanna Betteridge

Offered

City (Melbourne) Trimester 3 2008 (On-campus block of classes)

Synopsis

This unit involves a study of Victorian law on occupational health and safety, in particular the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, the Dangerous Goods Act 1985, OHS Regulations and compliance codes. Reference will also be made to Federal and other State and Territory OHS laws. The unit will explore the depth and scope of the duties and self-regulatory responsibilities which are cast upon employees and employers, contractors and occupiers and others at the workplace in Victoria with reference to relevant case law. These duties and responsibilities will be examined in an historical, sociological and wider legal context.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students should

1. have an understanding of, and be able to critically evaluate, the methods for prescribing and maintaining standards of safety in the workplace
2. have an understanding of the role of courts and legislatures in workplace safety
3. Be familiar with the current and emerging OHS legislation and case law in Victoria;
4. Have an understanding of how the OHS laws fit within the context of other legislation dealing with behaviour in the workplace such as industrial relations legislation, equal opportunity legislation and workers' compensation legislation; and
5. Be able to apply the law to a variety of fact situations with a view to solving problems and, if applicable, giving advice.

Assessment

Research assignment (7,000 words): 90%
Class participation: 10%

Contact hours

One 3-hour seminar per week