Duty of Care - Safety Talk (PDF)

Many people do not realise that refusing or failing to observe company safety rules and safety procedures or instructions from their supervisor is, in fact, breaking the law. People don't appreciate that, as an employee, they have certain legal obligations with regard to their own safety and the safety of other people in their workplace.

A failure to recognise and meet these legal obligations can result in:
•  injury or harm to yourself;
•  injury or harm to other people; and
•  you being prosecuted.

Occupational safety legislation operates in the same fashion as other aspects of the law. Ignorance of the law is no defence for committing an offence. For this reason it is important that you recognise and understand what your responsibilities are under the Duty of Care.