Reduce the Risk: Heat Stress
With heat levels rising and summer approaching, it's time to get serious about heat stress. It’s always better to prevent health risks than to have to deal with the consequences of them when it’s too late. That’s why we’ve compiled some key tips for staying safe this summer, especially when working outdoors or in hot conditions. We have also included information on recognising the signs and symptoms of heat stress. Keep reading to find out more and to view our latest video from the WorkPac Group Safety & Risk team on understanding and managing heat stress.[responsive_vid]
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Reduce the Risk: Basic First Aid
In case an emergency arises, it's important to understand the basics of First Aid. Check out our infographic below for more information.
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Safety Alert
SIGNIFICANT INJURY INCIDENT INVOLVING LIGHT VEHICLE AND WORKERThis incident DID NOT involve a WorkPac employee however it serves as a reminder of the risks associated with unplanned vehicle movement.A Pump Operator was temporarily pinned between his own light vehicle and the pump he was operating after his vehicle rolled forward approximately 13m. The Operator self evacuated and was able to raise the emergency from the two-way radio in his own vehicle.INJURY: Although no serious injuries were identified, the Operator was required to remain in hospital overnight for observation in relation to the potential crush injury.EQUIPMENT: Toyota Landcruiser and site pump.HAZARD: In the line of fireCAUSE: The vehicle was not parked as per procedure and the vehicle handbrake was defective.CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:Unplanned movement due to vehicle not parked as per site procedureHandbrake was defectiveVehicle not fundamentally stablePrestart checks not forwarded for actionWORKPAC RECOMMENDATIONS:Follow all Site Policies and ProceduresEnsure vehicles are serviceable prior to useTag out and report all non serviceable Plant and EquipmentEnsure vehicles are fundamentally stable when parked and prior to exiting the vehicleForward all Plant and Equipment defect notices to Maintenance for actionEducation awareness relating to line of fireCONTACT: For any further information contact Peter Zigmantas, Regional Risk Manager, Central Queensland, (07) 49694722.
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Get cyclone ready with WorkPac’s emergency kit
Cyclone season occurs from November through to April in Australia so it’s a good idea to have an emergency kit and household plan organised. Be prepared this season.Get cyclone smartTrim treetops and ensure branches are clear of your home, clear your property of loose material that might cause damage during extreme weather and clear out your gutters.Create an emergency contact list.Organise an emergency management plan and clearly communicate this to all of your family.Prepare an emergency kit.Our pets are so special, make sure you don’t forget to pack for them too! Ensure they have a collar, are clearly identifiable and have a secure pet carrier, leash or harness on hand. Include them in your emergency plan – if there’s a weather warning, keep your animals close.Handy emergency contactsLife threatening emergenciesTelephone Triple Zero (000). For life threatening, critical or serious situations only.State Emergency Service (SES) flood and storm assistanceTelephone: 132 500 for help with a damaged roof, rising flood water, trees fallen on buildings, or storm damage.Local CouncilVisit your local council website for information for your specific location, or look up your local council contact numbers.Weather and warningsVisit the Bureau of Meteorology web site at www.bom.gov.auAlternatively, visit the Bureau's Telephone Weather Services Directory for Queensland.Additionally, tune to your local radio station for warnings and advice. Details of your local ABC radio frequency and local web-page can be obtained from www.abc.net.au/local.Animal emergenciesWildlife Hotline: To report wildlife emergencies, marine strandings and pollution incidents, call the Wildlife Hotline on 1300 130 372.To report lost or missing animals during times of disaster and emergency events visit your state RSPCA lost/found web site:QueenslandNew South WalesVictoriaSouth Australia Western Australia Northern Territory TasmaniaAustralian Capital Territory Should you need to report an animal in distress, or you have concerns for the welfare of an animal, please contact one of the following options:RSPCA websiteEmergency Animal Disease and Biosecurity MattersSocial mediaFollow your state police service, SES, fire and rescue service and local council for real time information.Sources:http://www.burdekin.qld.gov.au/2012/media-releases/get-emergency-kits-ready-now-for-cycloneflood-season/
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Safe Work Month 2015 Re-Cap
A message from WorkPac’s National Safety and Risk Manager, Rachel Pearse on National Safe Work Month 2015."With October being National Safe Work Month, we decided this was a great opportunity for us to focus on and promote safety in the workplace to reduce death, injury and disease in support of this year’s theme, Be safe. Be healthy. Because….The involvement from our Business Centres and FTMs has been overwhelming and we don’t intend to stop just because October is over. We are committed to keeping the energy high and the momentum going, staying focused on ensuring we all go home to the things that matter each and every day!" In WorkPac Biloela The Biloela Team attended a WorkPac Toolbox Meeting at Ostwalds, Moura. WorkPac have had several onsite injuries so we arranged a safety awareness breakfast BBQ, just one of the ways we promote our commitment to a zero harm workplace. The BBQ gave us an opportunity to discuss the importance of identifying hazards, looking out for your mates, presenting fit for work and most importantly managing your fatigue coming into the festive season.In WorkPac Townsville The WorkPac Townsville team promoted Sun Safety & Hydration. Being a hot and humid region with some extreme UV ratings, the team focused on the slip, slop, slap message and the importance of drinking at least 1.5 litres of water a day.
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