Why unresolved hazards are evidence of a failing safety system A hazard report is not the end of the safety process. It is the point at which the employer becomes aware of a condition that may require control. If the matter is recorded but no suitable action follows, the workplace has evidence of awareness without […]
Turning Risk Assessments into Consistent Workplace Action Checklists are among the most practical tools available to safety representatives, employees and management. However, an effective checklist cannot simply be downloaded, copied from another workplace or drafted from general assumptions. It must be based on the actual hazards, activities, equipment and working conditions present at the workplace. […]
Understanding venue safety certificates, event risk categorisation and event safety planning In the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act 2 of 2010, an “event” means: Sporting, entertainment, recreational, religious, cultural, exhibitional, organisational or similar activities hosted at a stadium, venue or along a route or within their respective precincts. The applicable legislation is: Safety […]
Turning legal duties into practical workplace action. Most employers want to provide a safe and legally compliant workplace. However, occupational health and safety requirements can feel overwhelming when organisations must consider the Occupational Health and Safety Act, its regulations, incorporated standards, municipal by-laws, COIDA requirements and sector-specific obligations. This can lead to a large safety […]
Building a workplace where good habits are noticed before incidents force attention. Occupational health and safety is often discussed only when something has gone wrong. A person is injured, a near miss is reported, an inspector arrives, a complaint is raised, or a client asks for evidence. The conversation then becomes urgent, uncomfortable and reactive. […]
Why contractors must be managed as part of the workplace risk profile, not simply signed in and left to work. Many workplaces manage contractors as if they are ordinary visitors. They arrive at reception or security, sign a register, receive an access card or visitor sticker, and are allowed onto site. From an administrative point […]
Each November, workplaces around the world embrace Movember, a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for men’s health. The term “Movember” merges “moustache” and “November,” symbolising the campaign’s trademark gesture, men growing moustaches throughout the month to ignite conversations about critical health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide […]
As the holidays approach, employees tend to deal with more distractions than usual. Planning dinners, hosting out-of-town family members, purchasing gifts and figuring out the logistics of other festive activities can easily cause people’s minds to wander when they are at work. From a health and safety perspective, it is worth considering how these issues […]
As we diligently approach the conclusion of 2023 and set our sights on the initiatives for 2024, a crucial aspect on your planning agenda is the comprehensive induction training for all on-site staff and contractors. This training is not only a regulatory requirement but an essential investment in fostering a culture of safety and awareness […]
In this month’s newsletter, we will delve into the less conspicuous but equally critical aspects of health and safety in the workplace, specifically focusing on the intricate challenges posed by workplace stress, violence, and substance abuse. These issues are often elusive and may not readily reveal themselves, making it imperative to shed light on their […]
