Compliance code: Workplace amenities and the work environment

What it contains

Employers have specific duties and obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) 2004 and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (OHS Regulations) 2017 for providing appropriate workplace facilities. If your work involves construction sites, see the Facilities in construction compliance code.

Note that on 18 June 2017, the OHS Regulations 2017 replaced the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007, which expired on this date. This compliance code has not yet been updated to reflect the changes introduced by the OHS Regulations 2017. Complying with a compliance code made in relation to the old regulations may not necessarily mean compliance with a duty under the new regulations.

This compliance code has been made available solely as a source of practical guidance, to contribute to industry state of knowledge and assist those who must comply with health and safety laws.

The information in this compliance code is particularly relevant for you if you’re an employer (unless you’re in construction). It’s also relevant for health and safety representatives (HSRs) and employees. It uses examples and tools you can apply to your own situation.

It includes information on:

• what workplace amenities and facilities are
• how to identify and maintain adequate amenities and facilities
• different types of facilities and amenities
• considerations for the work environment
• planning emergency responses