SafeWork SA is boosting workplace safety with a plan to empower Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) and increase their numbers. 

Developed with the SafeWork SA Advisory Committee, the strategy addresses recommendations from the 2022 Independent Review of SafeWork SA.  

South Australia has about 5,000 HSRs across industries, acting as vital links between workers and management on safety issues. These volunteers are entitled to training and can perform their duties during work hours.  

SafeWork SA Executive Director Glenn Farrell said the strategy aims to “increase the number of active HSRs in South Australian workplaces and to bolster our support for already elected HSRs, to be positive safety enablers”.

The plan focuses on five goals: strengthening engagement between stakeholders; building HSR confidence; encouraging businesses to work with HSRs; improving training; and recognising HSR contributions. 

A new handbook for HSRs has been created, along with a recognition program.  

The program includes an award for innovative safety solutions, to be presented during National Safe Work Month each October. 

Finalists will also feature on SafeWork SA’s website and social media.  

“Workplace safety is a basic right for all workers. This strategy provides a platform to enable safer workplaces across this state,” says SA Unions Health & Safety Training Manager Dash Taylor Johnson.

Quintin Robinson from the South Australian Business Chamber welcomed the initiative’s support for small-to-medium enterprises.

“This strategy will provide a clear blueprint for how businesses can work with their HSRs to improve workplace safety for everyone,” he said.  

More details are accessible in PDF form, here.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. CareerSpot News