In 2006, the Victorian Government accepted a recommendation of a parliamentary inquiry into labour hire that further research should be undertaken into the causal links between occupational health and safety (OHS) practice and outcomes in the labour hire sector. In response, WorkSafe Victoria (WorkSafe) commissioned the Australian Centre for Research in Employment and Work (ACREW) at Monash University to conduct a study. ACREW examined
current management practices of labour hire companies that lead to effective OHS outcomes for labour hire workers, host employers and labour hire agencies.

This publication is based on case studies developed by ACREW from information provided by agencies, host employers and interviews with labour hire employees.

It summarises the case studies developed by ACREW and points to good OHS practices. It also suggests ways the organisations covered in the case studies could enhance their systems to protect the health and safety of labour hire workers. The purpose is to encourage learnings that will drive further improvements in performance.

The case studies are not intended as a template to be followed in all circumstances. The aim is to encourage agencies and host employers to develop solutions that suit their particular situation. It is important to note that good practices and learnings from one industry can often be transferred to other industries.

This publication also provides a table that sets out the elements of good management of OHS and return to work (RTW) identified through the ACREW research. At the end, there is a comprehensive list of further resources available from WorkSafe to help labour hire agencies and host employers understand their obligations and manage OHS and RTW effectively. These resources will also help labour hire workers understand their rights and responsibilities.

Download the full 31 page here (2.96MB).