Simulated Based Training Vs the Classroom

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Simulated-based learning is based on the principles which argues that learning best takes place in the context in which it is going to be used and takes after the idea that knowledge is best understood and remembered when based in a real life scenario says Professor Terry Stewart of Massey University New Zealand.

The constantly changing nature of today’s workplaces makes simulated or scenario based training an attractive option for any organisation wishing to improve employee productivity and retention of training knowledge. Continue reading →

Tradies Health Month – August 2017

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The most valuable part of a tradie’s toolkit is their health and safety.

August is Tradies Health Month, and Safe Work Australia are calling on tradies to make their health – and the health of their co-workers – a priority.

Safe Work Australia CEO Michelle Baxter said while tradies make up almost one-third (30%) of Australia’s workforce, they represent over half (58%) of serious claims for workers’ compensation*. Continue reading →

Guide to new OHS Regulations – Victoria

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Image: WorkSafe VictoriaA comprehensive guide to Victoria’s new Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 is now available.

The guide will help affected employers and other duty holders ensure their compliance with the new regulations when they take effect on 18 June.

According to WorkSafe’s Executive Director of Health and Safety, Marnie Williams, the new regulations will lift safety standards and reduce red tape. Continue reading →

# Hit me with your best shot

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Influenza virusAs we head in to the 2017 flu season, now is the time employers should be encouraging workers to get the flu shot with the virus traditionally peaking in the month of August. 

As at 17 May, there have been a total of 11,021 laboratory confirmed notifications of Influenza in Australia for 2017, with the most cases currently being reported in Queensland (3,869) closely followed by NSW (3,103). 
Continue reading →

Quad Bike Safety Training FREE for NSW Farmers

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NSW Farmers will now receive free quad bike training in a major boost to the safety improvement program aimed at significantly reducing the number of deaths on rural properties across NSW.

Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Matt Kean said farmers who complete an approved training course would also receive a free helmet – worth around $120 – suitable for use while they are riding their quad bikes. The changes announced today represent a further saving to farmers of up to $230. Continue reading →

New OHS Regulations 2017 (Victoria)

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Image: WorkSafe VictoriaThe new Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 (OHS Regulations) and Equipment (Public Safety) Regulations 2017 (EPS Regulations) will commence in Victoria on 18 June 2017.

With the new OHS Regulations 2017 due to commence in June, the compliance codes that align with the regulations are now under review. In consultation with stakeholders, WorkSafe VIC has updated the codes, and eight proposed codes are available for public comment from Monday 1 May to Friday 9 June. Find out more about public comment on the compliance codes.

OHS Regulations Changes

The new OHS Regulations 2017 are mainly the same. However, if you are in a workplace where asbestos is present; are a manufacturer or an importing supplier of hazardous substances or agricultural and veterinary chemicals; work in construction; or operate a mine or major hazard facility, you need to become aware of the changes. In most cases, compliance is required by 18 June 2017.

Most importantly, the new OHS Regulations 2017 maintain Victoria’s already high safety standards. In some high risk areas, like asbestos removal work, they improve standards. The changes also deliver significant savings to Victorian businesses in the areas of high risk work licensing and record keeping for designers and manufacturers of plant.

For some changes, transitional arrangements apply to allow duty and licence holders time to become compliant with the updated regulatory requirements.

If you are affected by the changes, WorkSafe has prepared a range of information and support resources to help you identify what to do to stay compliant when the changes take effect on 18 June 2017.

The Regulations have been renumbered with consecutive numbers, in line with the Office of the Chief Parliamentary Counsel’s guidance on the preparation of statutory rules. Reconciliation tables are available to help compare the numbering between the 2007 Regulations and the 2017 Regulations.

For further information contact the WorkSafe Victoria Advisory Service on 1800 136 089 or at [email protected]  or visit the WorkSafe Victoria website.

Source: WorkSafe Victoria, 25 April 2017

Serious workers’ compensation claims continue to fall

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According to the latest data released by Safe Work Australia, the rate of serious claims is falling but time lost from work is rising. Males account for 64% of claims with 90% of overall claims due to injury and musculoskeletal disorders. 

The Australian Workers’ Compensation Statistics 2014-15 report provides detailed workers’ compensation statistics, including preliminary claim data for 2014-15 and an analysis of claims over time.

Continue reading →

WorkSafe OHS Essentials Program

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Free safety advice for Victorian Businesses

Safety Australia Group are proud participants in the WorkSafe Victoria OHS Essentials Program. This is a free consultation service delivered by an independent occupational health and safety (OHS) consultant who will come to your workplace, help you identify hazards and provide a practical safety action plan. 

It’s a great opportunity to learn more about your safety obligations and to receive tailored advice on managing safety in your workplace. Continue reading →