National Safe Work Month is a time to commit to building a safe and healthy workplace. This year’s theme – for everyone’s safety, work safely – encourages individuals and organisations to prioritise safety in the workplace, because protecting workers’ mental health is just as important as protecting their physical health.
October is National Safe Work Month—a time to commit to building a safe and healthy workplace
On 13 and 14 September 2023 MATES in Construction acknowledged Fly the Flag Day.
Mend Services also acknowledged the day to raise mental health awareness and start the conversation on suicide prevention working closely with industry leaders to improve mental health for the construction industry. Construction workers are 6 times more likely to die from suicide than from an accident at work. Ongoing education and support to reduce this risk is critical. The building and construction industry has developed programs and support mechanisms that are genuinely innovative to address suicide and mental health through the workplace with Mates in Construction. This model has been very effective, it is now being used in other industries including transport. The impact of mental health and suicide prevention is a community necessity and must not only be an industry drive but have wholistic support through government funding and health services delivery. Mend is fortunate to work alongside Mates In Construction, Master Builder’s Association of NSW, both principle contractors and building companies to positively impact change. Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world; and Australian businesses have a duty to protect outdoor workers from ultra-violet (UV) radiation by providing suitable shade, systems of work and adequate PPE.
Regulatory compliance within the construction industry is key to ensuring safety for workers. It assists the industry with adhering to established standards and guidelines, therefore mitigating potential risks and liabilities.
Australia follows a comprehensive construction compliance framework that encompasses both national and state-specific regulations. Compliance with these regulations is not only legally mandated but also essential for maintaining high industry standards and safeguarding the wellbeing of workers, the public and the environment. Employers are obligated to identify and address psychosocial hazards within the workplace, under the new WHS safety regulations.
According to Dr Georgi Toma, Director of Heart and Brain Works, mental wellbeing at work is not an individual problem — but rather, the joint responsibility of employer and employees. Our Managing Director Fiona Curdie has registered with CEO Walk in My Shoes in association with Ronald McDonald House Charities to experience a day in the life of a family with seriously ill and injured children, teens and their families.
Support Fiona to help Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney to continue to provide a supportive home-away-from-home for families of children travelling to the House for treatment. Donate here: www.ceowalkinmyshoes.org.au/fundraisers/fionacurdie/ceo-walk-in-my-shoes-gws Proactive risk management is essential in all industries. Drug and alcohol use in the workplace is a serious issue that has negative consequences for employees, employers, a business’s bottom line and reputation, and the public.
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