Reducing the number of falls from heights will be a key area of focus for SafeWork NSW in its new five-year strategic plan.

The regulator said falls from heights remain one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities, along with falls on the same level (including from slips and trip hazards) and will be one of a number of targets as part of its compliance and enforcement campaign.

Psychosocial health and safety will also continue to be targeted, with a particular focus on eliminating sexual harassment in the workplace by strengthening existing tools and programs.

Exposure to hazardous substances, including silica and asbestos, continue to be a high priority with initiatives already introduced including a ban on engineered stone, tougher safety laws for those working with other silica containing products and materials, increased SafeWork NSW inspector presence and a silica worker register to help monitor the health of at-risk workers.

“Compliance with work health and safety laws remains a persistent challenge in NSW,” said Trent Curtin, acting deputy secretary of SafeWork NSW.

“Every day, our inspectors and staff provide advice and information to let workers know of their rights and to build knowledge and capability amongst businesses and leaders.

“Where necessary, we enforce compliance and undertake investigations and prosecutions to help secure safe and healthy workplaces, but our focus remains on taking fair and firm regulatory approaches to improve both physical and psychological health and safety,” he said.

In support of the strategic plan, the SafeWork NSW annual regulatory statement outlines regulatory priorities and reforms for this year.

The statement details SafeWork NSW’s approach to compliance and enforcement, and prioritises its focus on harm prevention, building industry capabilities, and establishing SafeWork NSW as standalone, strong and fit-for-purpose regulator.