Safe Work Australia is seeking comment on its occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations and model code of practice.

The new regulations have been created to support the Federal Government’s model Work Health and Safety Act.

Areas covered in the regulations include general workplace management, hazardous work, plant and structures and major hazard facilities.

The draft model code looks at handling OHS risks including hazardous chemicals, asbestos and manual tasks.

Safe Work Australia Chairman Tom Phillips says the harmonisation of OHS laws will allow businesses to manage the workplace better, resulting in increased worker safety.

“The model laws will help to improve workplace safety standards across all industries,” he said.

State governments have until December next year to introduce the model work health and safety laws.