October is National Safe Work Month
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This year, SafeWork NSW is focused on falls from heights and exposure to silica dust as these two areas have some of the highest risks for business and workers in the state.
While these high-risk activities may relate to the construction industry and some trades and services, other workplace such as office based and professional services should have other initiatives and programs to enhance their safety performance.
I attended a safety meeting recently where I learnt of a 'mates supporting mates' program. September 13 marked the 11th R U OK Day and various workplace have buddy systems, which are programs that focus on improving outcomes of mental health by encouraging workers to look out for each other.
Simple initiatives may cost a little but can effectively change safety culture and workplace morale, leading to better safety performance.
For example, various industries use different coloured safety helmets for new recruits and apprentices. This allows other workers to be aware of those new in the job who may need support and guidance regarding working safely and improving work procedures. White safety helmets are worn by managers, foremen, engineers or supervisors on site. From a safety aspect, workers are able to identify them easily on large work sites.
When finding an initiative or project to improve safety, it's ideal to have worker collaboration as it engages them in the program. Another option is identifying a safety issue and brain-storming with the work group. I know of workplaces that have run competitions to see which group could develop the best initiative. It was then backed up by actions that would become part of best practice.
What are the safety issues in your workplace? Is there an initiative that could turn it around?
Even though we are half way through safety month, there is no reason why safety initiatives should not be developed and implemented. Part of safety compliance is continuous improvement.
Safety initiatives should be implemented periodically as part of the safety management plan.
Unlike new year's resolutions, which are generally based on optional choices, safety is crucial. The lack of action to implement changes and projects could be a lost opportunity to prevent unsafe workplace conditions.