In this week's issue of SafetyNet we explore big developments in the ship-breaking industry, ANU research on inequlaities in workplace safety, inspection tips for HSRs and the Blint Builders prosecution.
A worker in tertiary education writes to Ask Renata about recalcitrant CEOs, and as always we encourage you to send in your own queries to Ask Renata.
For OHS news and helpful information visit We Are Union: OHS Reps Facebook page.
For previous issues visit our SafetyNet Archive.
Union News
SHARE YOUR STORY ABOUT ADDRESSING A PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARD
HSRs know preventing mental health injuries is just as important as physical injuries. That's why, for our upcoming HSR conference, we will be placing a strong emphasis on psychological health.
This year, we are eager to hear your personal experiences.
We like to showcase three HSRs who’ve effectively addressed workplace psychosocial hazards and give you opportunity to tell your story at this year’s conference.
If you’ve successfully tackled psychosocial hazards or dealt with mental health issues in your workplace, we invite you to share your story here.
PREVENT BULLYING: RSVP TODAY FOR JULY'S WEBINAR
Due to high demand, our first event on 19 June was fully booked, but we are pleased to offer a second workshop, 27 July for those who missed out.
The workshop, facilitated by Marty from VTHC's OHS Team, will guide participants through an action plan to address bullying-promoting systems.
Learn more
ASK RENATA
I have recently become an HSR. Our workplace is extremely unsafe, and a number of staff have proposed practical and affordable solutions which are always refused by the CEO who has no regard for the safety of staff.
Congratulations on your recent election as HSR.
We’re very sorry to hear you’re working in an environment where worker safety is not taken seriously. The good news is, our OHS Act gives HSRs all the powers needed to get things moving.
Read our full response here
WEEKLY COVID NUMBERS
From 23 June - 29 June, Victoria recorded:
2,560 (-25%) total cases for the past week
8 COVID deaths on average each day over the past week
207 cases in hospital (7 day rolling average) with 10 in ICU (7 day rolling average)
More COVID weekly stats here.
International News
SHIP-BREAKING INDUSTRY SET FOR TRANSFORMATION
The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (Hong Kong Convention) will enter into force in June 2025, after Bangladesh and Liberia became contracting states to the Convention on 26 June 2023.
Regulator News
WORKPLACE INSPECTION TIPS FOR HSRs
Workplace inspections reduce harm and empower HSRs to identify hazards and raise them with the employer and designated work group (DWG).
PAINT MIXING MACHINE IGNITES FLAMMABLE VAPOURS
WorkSafe has reminded employers and occupiers of premises where dangerous goods are stored about the dangers of using electrical equipment that is not rated for use in hazardous areas.
Research
THE DEADLY IMPACT OF DIFFERENT JOBS: NEW RESEARCH REVEALS INEQUALITIES
Recently published research from the Australian National University examines how different jobs affect a person's chances of dying.
Researchers studied a large group of people in Australia between 25 and 64 years old, using information from the national Census and data about deaths, to compare the mortality rates among different occupations.
More here
Prosecutions
TIPPING AIRCON UNIT CAUSES SEVERE INJURIES
Blint Builders, a residential building company, has been found guilty of failing to address fall from height risks and failing to produce requested documents during an investigation by WorkSafe.
Read more here
Events
OHS TRAINING UNIT
The Victorian Trades Hall Council’s OHS Training Unit is one of the most experienced training providers in Victoria.
We have delivered OHS training to tens of thousands of Health & Safety Reps across Victoria since 1983.
We deliver high quality WorkSafe Approved training that is practical and solution-focused in multiple locations around Melbourne’s suburbs and regional Victoria.
- 5 Day HSR Initial OHS Training Course Fee - $950 (inc GST)
- 1 Day HSR Refresher Training Course Fee - $350 (inc GST)
Click on the links below for dates and locations.
HSR Initial OHS Training Course
HSR Refresher OHS Training Course
VTHC also offers tailored training, including for managers and supervisors, on Comcare, and gendered violence.
Check out our website for more information.
OHS Team
http://www.weareunion.org.au