Please find below a a template Risk Management and WHS Framework, along with an explanatory bulletin regarding this document.
In particular, there are a few key points that each rowing organisation should note in considering the template Risk Management and WHS Framework:
- The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) provides that each business entity that falls within the scope of the WHS Act is considered to be a ‘Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), and has obligations under the Act
- However, a volunteer organisation is excluded from the obligations under the WHS Act, so in general terms an entirely voluntary organisation is not bound by these legislative obligations;
- While some voluntary rowing clubs are not bound by the legislative obligations of the WHS Act, they may wish to implement a risk management framework to provide a safe environment regardless of the legislative requirements – – in such circumstances it is recommended that the Committees of those organisations carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of enacting a policy with which they will be required to comply;
- Each rowing association and club that elects to use the guidelines must tailor the document to reflect that organisation’s practices (for example in relation to the specific practices within that organisation). Organisations will not be able to simply adopt the framework without first reviewing and adapting it for their own practices and environment. Instructions are provided in the template policy to assist rowing organisations to adapt the policy for this purpose.
- In addition to the template Risk Management & WHS Guidelines, RA has also developed some additional resources which are intended to assist clubs and schools to ensure that their on-water activities are as safe and enjoyable as possible. These resources complement the Risk Management & WHS Guidelines and can be found here.
- The below documents and information are intended as a working document to assist rowing associations and clubs to consider their specific risks, controls and practices. They should not be construed, or relied upon, as legal advice
Template WHS and RM Guidelines – Bulletin
Template Risk Management Framework