The NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act, 2000 and Occupational Health and Safety Act Regulation, 2001 set down the legislation and regulations that relate to Occupational Health and Safety in workplaces in NSW.

The scene of a flood, storm or rescue emergency may fall within the definition of a 'workplace' in the Act. Although volunteers are not defined as 'employees' in the Act, the sections which deal with the responsibilities of employers (such as the SES) make it clear that responsibilities for Occupational Health and Safety extend not only to employees, but to anyone who is legally in their workplace. This would include volunteers.

The SES therefore has a duty of care to ensure the health, safety and welfare of volunteers and personnel in performing their duties. On this we place the highest priority.

A poster that outlines the SES OH&S policy is attached for download.