Determination of legal and other requirements
Plain-language summary
Knowing which safety laws and other obligations apply to you, keeping that list current, and understanding what each one actually requires.
What the clause is really asking
Compliance is non-negotiable in OH&S because the law sets the floor for protecting people. This clause asks you to identify the legal requirements and other commitments that apply, such as occupational health regulations, machinery rules and client safety standards, and to keep that knowledge up to date. The intent is that you cannot meet obligations you do not know exist.
What auditors look for
Auditors review your legal register and test it by picking a known regulation for your industry and checking it is captured and understood. They look at how you stay current when laws change and who is responsible for that. They link this clause to compliance evaluation under 9.1.2 to see the loop close.
Typical evidence
Legal and other requirements register; subscription or update service records; records of how new requirements are tracked; links from requirements to specific controls; client and other commitments captured.
How to comply — recommendations
Build a register listing each applicable law and other obligation, what it requires of you, and which control or process meets it. Assign someone to keep it current, whether through a legal update service or a consultant, and record reviews. Make sure it covers occupational health and hygiene, not just physical safety. Connect each requirement to how you actually comply so the evaluation under 9.1.2 is straightforward.
Common nonconformities
Register out of date after legal changes; requirements listed without saying what they actually require; occupational health and hygiene obligations missing; no owner for keeping the register current; client or other commitments not captured.
Related clauses
ISO 9001 (no direct equivalent); ISO 14001 6.1.3
Get the Safety Module 2 pack (quiz, toolbox talk, attendance register & hazard hunt worksheet)
Free, instant download. We'll only email you the occasional practical quality update — no spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Qlause provides interpretive guidance only and is not a substitute for the standard. Refer to your licensed copy of the relevant standard for the authoritative text.