What is the definition of an 'Act' in the context of WHS?

The definition of an 'Act' in the context of Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) refers specifically to Australian laws and legislations. These acts are formal legal documents that establish regulatory frameworks aimed at promoting and ensuring health and safety standards within workplaces across various industries. They outline legal obligations and requirements that employers and employees must comply with to maintain a safe working environment.

Acts serve as the foundation for WHS legislation, enabling effective enforcement and compliance monitoring. By defining clear legal responsibilities, these acts help reduce risks and improve safety outcomes. While guidelines, codes of practice, and standard operating procedures may refer to best practices or provide additional guidance within the structure of the law, they do not serve as legislation themselves. The Act is the authoritative source that underpins the entire WHS framework, making it crucial for understanding the legal context of workplace safety.