[Received by email]

SUBMISSION ON RESEARCH STUDY INTO RELATIONSHIP WITH STANDARDS AUSTRALIA AND THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TESTING AUTHORITIES

Thank you for the opportunity to submit comments on the relationship with Standards Australia and the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA).

WorkSafe WA believes that both Standards Australia and NATA play an important role in the enforcement of Occupational Health and Safety in the workplace and submits advice concerning the following items identified in the Issues Paper.

*	Do the current standard setting and accreditation arrangements and processes best serve Australia's public interest and are they appropriate to meet future domestic and international challenges including the increasing globalisation of markets?

	Standard setting and accreditation are essential in the pursuit of Occupational Health and Safety. Greater public knowledge and understanding of Australian Standards and the role of NATA would facilitate increased adherence to the standards. Where appropriate, after proper consideration and evaluation, Australian and international standards should be consistent.

*	Participants may wish to nominate what they consider to be society's and industries' objectives for standards setting and laboratory accreditation services.

	Some of the objectives identified by WorkSafe WA include:

	1.	providing guidance and reference material that is easily understood, ensuring quality in the provision of goods and services in the areas of health and safety;

	2.	providing guidance in understanding safety and health; and

	3.	developing standards with adequate consultation with industry, community and experts.

WorkSafe WA believes that NATA accredited laboratories provide credibility in testing samples and Australian Standards provide a foundation for regulatory bodies.

Your sincerely

Bill Mitchell
Manager Policy