Author: Nicki Davies

DRINKING WATER: THE IMPORTANCE OF HYDRATION

Posted on by Nicki Davies

Drinking water is often the most convenient and cheapest way for you to stay hydrated and rehydrate. 

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation

DRINKING H2O IS THE WAY TO GO

The body is made up of 50 to 75 per cent water, and as it can’t store water, you need fresh supplies every day. Most tap water in Australia contains fluoride that helps prevent tooth decay. Water is also a great choice for your health and hydration as it has:

  • No sugar
  • No carbohydrate

Drinking water on a regular basis helps keep you hydrated so that you stay more energised and awake.

HYDRATION AND WHY IT’S SO IMPORTANT

Good hydration is essential for good health and plays a key role in how your body functions each day. Dehydration can also affect your alertness which in turn can lead to mistakes, especially when you’re using machinery and sharp objects. If you don’t drink enough water, you might experience signs of dehydration including (but not limited to):

  • Confusion
  • Dark urine
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Muscle cramps
  • Thirst or dry mouth
  • Tiredness

IMPORTANT: Keep an eye out for your co workers when working in hot conditions or physically demanding roles as they may not know they are getting dehydrated. 

TIPS TO HELP YOU STAY HYDRATED

Drink plenty of water instead of sugary drinks like energy drinks, soft drinks or cordial.

Have a reusable water bottle with you during the day that you can refill, or keep a spare water bottle around (especially during hot days and/or when working in physically demanding roles).

Try to get into a water drinking routine. For example, drink water when:

  • You wake up
  • At breakfast, lunch and dinner,
  • Also, when you go to bed

Also, remember that you will have access to a tap or water cooler at every work site.

MONITOR YOUR URINE

Finally, the NSW Health Urine Colour Chart is a useful resource to help give you an idea of whether you are drinking enough water.

WELLNESS GOES 24/7

Labourpower values your health and wellbeing and is committed to wellness in the workplace. We are proud to partner with Workactive to bring you safety and wellbeing programs throughout the year.

Look out for our regular Toolbox Tuesday and Wellness Wednesday posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and the Labourpower website.

 

 

FATIGUE AWARENESS AT WORK

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Fatigue can be described as an overall constant feeling of tiredness. Or a lack of energy that interferes with your day-to-day activity.

Disclaimer: The following information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation

TO WORK AT YOUR BEST YOU NEED ENOUGH REST

Fatigue can result in a lack of alertness increasing the risk of incidents or injury on site, particularly for people who:

  • Operate machinery or mobile equipment
  • Work at heights
  • Work with flammable or explosive substances
  • Carry out hazardous work such as electrical work
  • Drive a road vehicle

IMPORTANT: Fatigue is mental or physical exhaustion that reduces your ability to work safely and effectively.

SIGNS OF FATIGUE

Understanding the signs of fatigue helps you take care of your own safety and wellbeing. Take time to monitor your levels of alertness and ability to concentrate while at work and assess your energy levels after work. Also look out for signs of fatigue in people working around you.

Common signs of fatigue include (but are not limited to):

  • Feeling tired even after sleep
  • Blurred vision or impaired visual perception
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Short term memory problems
  • Slow reflexes or reduced hand-eye coordination
  • A need for more sleep on your days off

IMPORTANT: Workers with fatigue can also impact the health and safety of those around them.

MANAGING FATIGUE IN THE WORKPLACE
  • Firstly, always follow Labourpower’s policies and procedures relating to fatigue

In addition, make sure that when you’re at work you:

  • Take your allocated breaks
  • Remember to eat healthy balanced meals and snacks
  • Also, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • In addition, do some pre-shift stretching and warm-up exercises
  • Finally, get adequate rest and sleep when you’re not at work

IMPORTANT: Contact your GP for medical help and treatment if you believe you are suffering from the effects of fatigue.

For more information, visit the Safe Work Australia website.

SAFETY GOES 24/7

Labourpower values your health and wellbeing and has an ongoing commitment to safety in the workplace.

We are also proud to partner with Workactive to bring you safety and wellbeing programs throughout the year.

We look forward to bringing you more safety tips as part of our Toolbox Tuesdays.

Look out for our regular Toolbox Tuesday and Wellness Wednesday posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and the Labourpower website.

 

 

MOVEMBER: SUPPORTING MEN’S HEALTH

Posted on by Nicki Davies

Movember is a leading charity changing the face of men’s health. In 2020, that charity is reminding Aussies that this year  will be the most important Mo they’ll ever grow.

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation

NOVEMBER MEANS MOVEMBER

2020 has certainly been a big year for everyone. A lot has changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing anxiety and stress levels for many. Movember is an annual event that aims to raise awareness of a number of health issues that are not often talked about within male circles, including:

  • Looking at mental health through a male lens, focusing on prevention, early intervention and health promotion
  • Helping men know the signs, symptoms and risk factors for prostate and testicular cancer

It’s important to make your wellbeing a priority and take steps to be healthier and stronger.

GET INVOLVED IN MOVEMBER

Now in its 17th year, Movember encourages men and women across the country, to rally in support of Movember’s cause areas including men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

Here are just some of the things that you can do to help support the charity:

  • Grow a moustache
  • Run or walk 60km
  • Host a fun event
  • Choose your own challenge

Both men and women are encouraged to get involved in Movember.

LOOK AFTER YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Firstly, fuel your body by eating healthy and nutritious food. Check out the Labourpower Fuel Your Body Wellness series on our website

Also, stay at a healthy weight. This can help reduce your risk of:

  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure, and
  • Other chronic illnesses

In addition, try moving more. Remember, regular exercise is good for both your physical and mental wellbeing

It’s also important to stay connected by spending time with people who make you feel good

Also try starting a conversation. Being there for someone, listening and giving your time can be life-saving

Meanwhile, book a visit to your GP to ask about routine check- ups and screenings. Also ask how often you should be examined

Finally, always follow Workplace Health and Safety advice to minimise risk of injury and keep yourself and others safe at work

MORE ABOUT MOVEMBER

Please visit the Movember website to find out more about this year’s fundraising initiatives and gain access to a wide range of useful information and resources about men’s health.

WELLNESS GOES 24/7

Labourpower values your health and wellbeing and is committed to wellness in the workplace. We are proud to partner with Workactive to bring you safety and wellbeing programs throughout the year.

Look out for our regular Toolbox Tuesday and Wellness Wednesday posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and the Labourpower website.

 

 

NATIONAL SAFE WORK MONTH: WHS IS FOR EVERYONE

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

National Safe Work Month 2020. Every year Safe Work Australia asks businesses, employers and workers to join this initiative and commit to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians.

Disclaimer: The following information is general in nature. It does not take into account your personal situation

WHS IS FOR EVERYONE

Labourpower believes in safety for everyone. Also that best practice WHS helps contribute to our:

  • Overall health and wellbeing, and
  • Improves overall productivity and quality of work
SAFETY IS NEVER AN ACCIDENT

No matter what your job, it is important to look after your health and safety at work.

SAFETY IS IN YOUR HANDS

We all have a role to play in workplace safety. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the safety procedures. Also to follow the safe work instructions at your work site. This helps ensure the safety of yourself and others. You can put yourself and other people at risk if you fail to:

  • Act in a safe manner at all times
  • Follow all safe work practices agreed for your site
  • Report any safety concerns to your supervisor

IMPORTANT: Safe work practices also mean taking care not to put other people in the workplace at risk.

STAYING HEALTHY AND SAFE AT WORK

Here are some DO’s and DON’Ts to protect your health and safety at work.

DON’Ts 

  • Work when affected by fatigue, sickness or under the influence
  • Over exceed your capabilities
  • Operate any machinery you are not trained or qualified to operate
  • Tamper with equipment or try and fix it

DOs 

  • Firstly, always pay attention to what you’re doing all the time and what is happening around you
  • Also, report anything that looks dangerous
  • Finally, remember to make use of the health and wellbeing resources available to you through the Labourpower Toolbox and Wellness flyers

REMEMBER: If you are ever in doubt, always stop and ask for help. In addition, report any issues to your supervisor immediately.

STAY COVID SAFE

This year’s National Safe Work Month theme is Work Health and Safety through COVID-19. It is a timely reminder to follow Labourpower’s COVID safe work practices at all times

SAFETY GOES 24/7

Labourpower values your health and wellbeing and has an ongoing commitment to safety in the workplace.

We are also proud to partner with Workactive to bring you safety and wellbeing programs throughout the year.

We look forward to bringing you more safety tips as part of our Toolbox Tuesdays.

Look out for our regular Toolbox Tuesday and Wellness Wednesday posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and the Labourpower website.

 

NATIONAL SAFE WORK MONTH 2020

Labourpower is also proud to join National Safe Work Month. It’s part of our commitment to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians.

#safeworkmonth #safetytogether

NEW LOGOS FOR LABOURPOWER

Posted on by Nicki Davies


Labourpower is proud to introduce new logos for our business units as part of the ongoing growth of our company’s brand.

We entered 2020 with a brand new website and logo to reflect Labourpower’s leading position in the industry today.

Firstly as the parent brand, Labourpower is the foundation for all our company offerings. Our main branding is red for strength and power.

However, as our business continues to evolve and respond to new challenges, we are introducing  new logos to reflect who we are as a business today.

These new logos reflect the next chapter for Labourpower. Also, the breadth and depth of services and quality solutions that we’re able to offer our candidates and clients.

 

LABOURPOWER COMMERCIAL

Labourpower Commercial (formerly Consulting) is our white-collar recruitment specialist division. Blue was chosen for the logo to evoke a sense of trust, stability and wisdom.

Labourpower Commercial provides permanent, contract and temporary staffing solutions at all levels in key industry sectors. Our team has a successful track record recruiting professional, technical and executive candidates. In other words, people with the skills and experience to deliver quality outcomes.

 

LABOURPOWER TRAINING

Labourpower Training provides training solutions for businesses across Australia and the upskilling of candidates. The logo features the colour green to represent growth and learning.

Meanwhile, Labourpower Training provides ongoing, industry-specific training programs to help each client’s workforce succeed. Above all, our quality training solutions aim to increase staff retention and employee satisfaction, as well as delivering a strong ROI.

 

LABOURPOWER TRADE

Labourpower Trade  focuses on trade, civil and construction recruitment solutions. Its logo features the colour orange. A strong, positive colour chosen for determination and creativity.

Labourpower Trade is our specialist recruiter with a proven track record in providing skilled tradespeople. We offer solutions to meet all temporary, contract and permanent placement staffing needs. Visit the Labourpower Trade website for more information.

 

Labourpower continues to go from strength to strength as a leading provider of quality recruitment solutions across Australia. Finally, look out for our new logos and don’t forget that you can also connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

 

 

LABOURPOWER TRADE AND HOWARTH RESOURCES GROUP JOIN FORCES

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Labourpower Trade and Howarth Resources Group are joining forces to further strengthen their labour hire and skilled trades recruitment capabilities.

Both companies have built a niche market in the road, rail and construction industries. Working together under the Labourpower Trade banner, the market leaders are now able to achieve even better outcomes for clients and candidates.

LABOURPOWER TRADE DIRECTOR ZAC WEBBER SAYS…

Director of Labourpower Trade Zac Webber, says that the merger will allow the companies to deliver on their shared vision regarding the future of recruitment in the road, rail and construction space.

“Clients and employees come to us for our expertise. They stay with us because we continue to deliver on our promises and provide a platform for growth,” he said.

“Combining the expertise of Labourpower Trade and Howarth makes good business sense. It puts us in an even stronger position to create solutions that benefit organisations and job seekers across Australia.”

HOWARTH RESOURCES GROUP DIRECTOR ANDREW HOWARTH SAYS…

Meanwhile, Director of Howarth Resources Group Andrew Howarth, agrees that the merger is a great fit. He says this is a key milestone for his business.

“Our company’s reputation is built on providing exceptional labour hire. Joining Labourpower Trade celebrates the values we share. It also allows us to take our service to the next level,” he said.

“Our combined track record and being able to leverage Labourpower’s best practice tools and technology creates a significant offering to the marketplace.”

Since operating under the award-winning Labourpower umbrella, Labourpower Trade (formerly RRC Australia) has been able to expand its talent pool and services to clients, as well as servicing other key industry sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, mining and waste.

To sum up, this merger brings together two market leaders in the trade recruitment sector who believe in local jobs for local people.

Zac Webber says that together, Labourpower Trade and Howarth will be able to offer new, innovative recruitment solutions. These will benefit clients and candidates Australia-wide.

“We look forward to working closely with the Howarth team and welcoming them to the Labourpower Trade family.”

ABOUT LABOURPOWER TRADE

We are a leading recruiter in trades, civil, rail and construction, specialising in recruiting skilled tradespeople. We place temporary, casual, contract and permanent positions across all industries Australia-wide.

Finally, if you’re someone looking for a new challenge or a company looking for the right people, speak to our experienced recruiters or connect with us on Facebook or LinkedIn today.

 

 

 

 

INJURY REPORTING – SAFETY AT WORK

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Injury reporting is important. Firstly, so employees receive appropriate treatment and support. Also, to ensure that employers can address any safety issues in the workplace.

Disclaimer: The following information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation

INJURIES MUST BE REPORTED SO THAT YOU CAN BE SUPPORTED

Workplace injuries can range from physical cuts and lacerations to pain from repetitive lifting and manual handling. Labourpower is committed to taking all reported injuries seriously. We will work to ensure that:

  • All injured workers get the support and help needed
  • We review practices to improve workplace health and safety

IMPORTANT: No matter how small the injury may appear, it’s important to report the incident and injury early.

SAFETY IS NO ACCIDENT

Understanding the cause of an injury can help reduce work-related injuries and illnesses. ALL injuries (including those that occur outside the workplace) should be reported even if these injuries seem minor. Reporting an injury helps to:

  • Make sure you receive appropriate treatment and care
  • Ensure any safety issues at work are addressed
  • Prevent any reoccurrence of an incident or injury

IMPORTANT: Always report an injury to your supervisor and Labourpower representative —not a co-worker.

IT’S IMPORTANT TO REPORT ALL INJURIES

Labourpower has resources available no matter where you work. This ranges from general information to qualified medical professionals who can assist with treatment plans as well as preventative care. It’s key for you to:

  • Firstly, know what actions to take if an incident or injury at work involves you
  • Secondly, follow all safety measures and practices in place at the host client
  • In addition, understand the danger of the risks and identified hazards around you
  • Also, pay attention to all safety messages, signs and follow your training

Finally, report ALL injuries and incidents to your supervisor, no matter how small.

REMEMBER: The sooner you report an incident or injury, then the sooner Labourpower can seek treatment for you and provide you with appropriate care. 

SAFETY GOES 24/7

Labourpower values your health and wellbeing and has an ongoing commitment to safety in the workplace.

We are also proud to partner with Workactive to bring you safety and wellbeing programs throughout the year.

We look forward to bringing you more safety tips as part of our Toolbox Tuesdays.

Look out for our regular Toolbox Tuesday and Wellness Wednesday posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and the Labourpower website.

 

NATIONAL SAFE WORK MONTH 2020

Labourpower is also proud to join National Safe Work Month. It’s part of our commitment to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians.

#safeworkmonth #safetytogether

MENTAL WELLNESS: NAVIGATING MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH COVID-19

Posted on by Nicki Davies

Mental wellness is more important than ever. Taking care of your mental health and wellbeing is a priority. Especially at a time where dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live and work.

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation

IT’S NEVER WEAK TO SAY THAT YOU’RE NOT OKAY

It’s important to look after your mental wellness during this time by:

  • Being aware of how you’re feeling
  • Understanding what you can do to take care of your mental wellbeing

Mental health is the way we think and feel as well as our ability to deal with ups and downs.

NAVIGATING MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritising mental health and wellbeing is more important than ever. It’s important to get support if you spot any early warning signs. For example, at work you might notice that you are:

  • More tired than usual
  • Make silly mistakes
  • Often late for work
  • Irritable and short-tempered

When we enjoy good mental health we are better equipped to deal with life’s challenges.

Check out other posts in our Toolbox Talk and Wellness series for tips on how to manage your health and wellbeing including, for example,  Mental Health Matters,  our Fuel your Body posts covering breakfast, lunch, snacks, shift work – tips for healthy eating as well as Alcohol and Your Health, Tips for your Financial Wellbeing and more…

TIPS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
  • Look after your physical health. Regular exercise and a healthy diet is good for your physical and mental wellbeing
  • Develop and stick to a routine. Having some structure to our days can help with providing stability during challenging times
  • Keep in touch with family and friends.  Maintaining social connections is important to feeling safe and well. It can also help to share the ups and downs you’re experiencing with someone you feel comfortable with
  • Take breaks.  Make the most of your work breaks to help clear your head, get some fresh air or have some time for yourself
  • Stay informed. Remember to only get updates from reliable sources such as government websites Australia.gov.au and health.gov.au
  • Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to seek support if you need help. Your GP is a good place to start and there are also some great online resources available. Beyond Blue has a dedicated coronavirus online and phone support service and the government’s  Head to Health website also provides links to trusted Australian resources
NATIONAL SAFE WORK MONTH 2020

Labourpower is proud to join National Safe Work Month as part of our commitment to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians.

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

As part of National Safe Work Month, Labourpower also recognises World Mental Health Day on 10 October 2020, including this year’s message to:

 “Look after your mental health, Australia.” 

Visit their website for more information

 

WELLNESS GOES 24/7

Labourpower values your health and wellbeing and is committed to wellness in the workplace. We are proud to partner with Workactive to bring you safety and wellbeing programs throughout the year.

Look out for our regular Toolbox Tuesday and Wellness Wednesday posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and the Labourpower website.

 

#safeworkmonth #safetytogether #LookAfterYourMentalHealthAustralia #WMHD2020

NATIONAL SAFE WORK MONTH: HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING THROUGH COVID-19

Posted on by Nicki Davies

October is National Safe Work Month – a time to commit to improving safety and health in the workplace.

This year’s theme, Work Health and Safety through COVID-19, acknowledges and reflects the wide-reaching impacts of COVID-19 on Australian businesses, employers and workers.

Labourpower National HR Manager Brooke Horbury reflects on the challenges brought about by the pandemic and provides an insight into the initiatives put in place at Labourpower.

TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE KEY CHALLENGES
FACING LABOURPOWER AS A RESULT OF THE PANDEMIC?

COVID-19 brings unprecedented challenges for everyone and Labourpower is learning and adapting every day. Our first step was to set up a COVID Response team within our HR department, establishing COVID safe protocols in accordance with Federal, State and Territory guidelines, to ensure the health and safety of:

  • Casual staff
  • Internal staff, and the
  • Wider community to slow the spread of infection
HOW ARE YOU HELPING CLIENTS TO MITIGATE RISK?

Many of our clients across the country continue to provide essential services and require people to show up to work during the pandemic.

Labourpower helps clients navigate the challenges of operating in a COVID world. Businesses must prioritise staff safety and wellbeing if they are to be sustainable. We work closely with our clients to ensure stringent protocols that help:

  • Identify risks
  • Minimise spread
  • Support any initiatives/processes they have implemented on-site

Labourpower’s National COVID-19 Safety Plan allows us to be agile and responsive, with employee wellbeing and safety at the centre of everything we do.

HOW ARE YOU SAFELY MANAGING SUSPECTED
OR CONFIRMED CASES OF COVID-19?

As soon as we had our first positive case in the workforce, we knew exactly how to manage the situation to keep our workers safe and limit the spread of COVID-19.

Most importantly, it was reassuring to know that our National COVID-19 Safety plan is effective and works.

Our flexible approach has seen us continually improve and strengthen our processes to create positive outcomes for our staff and clients.

The Labourpower COVID-19 Management team speaks to any employee or client with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19. They assess each report on a case-by-case basis to determine how best to manage and mitigate any risk.

HOW MANY STAFF MEMBERS HAVE RETURNED TO WORK OVER THIS PERIOD?

As part of our COVID-19 management plan, Labourpower HR requires staff to self-isolate from work if they or anyone in their household:

  • Is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19
  • Has had contact with a suspected or confirmed case, or
  • Has tested positive

Once an employee receives a negative COVID-19 result, we ask them a series of questions to ensure they are fit and well for work.

As soon as we identify that there is no risk for them to return to work, the staff member can go back on the roster.

To date, 1753 employees have been cleared to return to work by the Labourpower COVID-19 Management team.

HOW IMPORTANT IS COMMUNICATION AT THIS TIME?

Certainly communication is key to helping our staff and clients navigate the impacts of COVID-19. For example, keeping our workers up-to-date with:

  • Regular text messages,
  • Toolbox talks and
  • Other communications

As well as regular check-ins with people in isolation is important.

Similarly, we also make regular communication with our clients a priority so that they know that we are standing by them. They have confidence that we are able to continue to deliver a service that supports their business and its needs in a way that ensures the health safety of all employees.

ARE THERE ANY POSITIVE OUTCOMES BROUGHT ON BY THE PANDEMIC?

Every member of our team has been remarkable. We have seen incredible resilience as people:

  • Continue to show up to work
  • Cope with the unpredictable, and
  • Maintain a focus on providing quality outcomes for businesses across all industries

I am proud to be part of a team that has shown such a firm commitment and proactive approach to tackling the challenges of COVID-19. Through openness and transparency we are helping to create a safe work environment for individuals and each client’s business.

 

NATIONAL SAFE WORK MONTH 2020

Labourpower is proud to join National Safe Work Month as part of our commitment to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians.

#safeworkmonth #safetytogether