Author: Nicki Davies

WORKPLACE HAZARDS – SAFETY AT WORK

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Workplace hazards exist in all workplaces. Some hazards more obvious than others. 

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

STAY ALERT! DON’T GET HURT

Workplaces try to keep you safe by implementing various controls. These assist in protecting workers from workplace hazards in order to:

  • Avoid injuries, illnesses and incidents
  • Reduce health and safety risks
  • Provide safe and healthy working conditions

IMPORTANT: Every person has a responsibility to keep themselves and others as safe as possible

NEVER TAKE SHORTCUTS

Labourpower conducts regular assessments and discussions with site operators to ensure safety systems are up-to-date.

Some of the safety systems put in place include for example:

  • Guarding on machinery and signage
  • Inductions and training
  • Safety policies, procedures and methods

IMPORTANT: Make sure you pay attention to the Labourpower Safety Messages sent out every fortnight

KEEPING YOURSELF SAFE AT WORK

No matter your job, it’s important to take steps to improve your health and safety at work:

  • Firstly, familiarise yourself with relevant workplace health and safety policies (as provided in your induction)
  • Secondly, make sure you understand the identified hazards. And follow the safe work practices relevant to your site and job task
  • In addition, wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required
  • Also, play your part in safety by reading safety messages and noticeboards, safe work methods as well as:
    – Listening carefully to what is said in Toolbox Talks
    – Following the training provided etc.

Finally, remember that not all hazards are obvious. It’s important to raise any concerns you have. If you are unsure about anything or see something that can cause an injury then:

  • Speak to your supervisor or
  • Labourpower representative
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.

 

 

EATING A HEALTHY DINNER: FUEL YOUR BODY – PART 6

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Eating a healthy dinner helps make you feel good and complete your food intake for the day.

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

A HEALTHY DINNER IS ALWAYS A WINNER

Eating a healthy dinner that provides a well-balanced meal is important to:

  • Unwind after the challenges of your day
  • Provide your body with the energy and nutrients it needs
  • Reduce your risk of diet-related chronic diseases

Tip: Try making small, practical changes at dinnertime with healthy meal recipes that work for you.

GOOD FOOD EQUALS GOOD MOOD

Meals that include wholesome foods have been shown to boost your mood as well as your overall health. Aim for a healthy dinner plate with a balance of items from different food groups that includes:

  • ¼ plate of lean protein e.g. meat, fish, chicken, tofu
  • ¼ plate of healthy carbs e.g. brown rice, pasta, potato, sweet potato
  • ½ plate of veggies e.g. leafy greens, asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprouts, baby corn, carrots, capsicum, celery, cucumber, eggplant, sugar snap peas, tomatoes

Tip: If your schedule means a late dinner, make healthy food choices and aim to eat a lighter meal

Check out other posts in our Fuel Your Body series for tips about healthy food choices, such as breakfast, lunch, snacks, shift work – tips for healthy eating and food labels.

TIPS FOR EATING HEALTHY DINNERS

Firstly, planning your dinners in advance will make your shopping easier.  Also, it will help you manage your budget and ensure dinners give you the nutrients you need. In addition:

  • Include three to four foods from different food groups
  • Cook large amounts and freeze some individual portions to eat later
  • Stock your pantry with some basics that let you whip up an easy meal on busy nights
  • Check out your local supermarket for quick and healthy meal ideas with free cookbooks available in-store and recipe ideas on their websites
  • You can also find lots of health recipes online by searching “easy healthy dinner ideas”

For further information visit: eatforhealth.gov.au/ or health.gov.au/health-topics/food-and-nutrition

 

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.

We look forward to bringing you more health and wellbeing tips as part of our FUEL YOUR BODY series.

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

 

 

WORKING AT HEIGHTS

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Working at heights refers to any work where you could potentially fall and injure yourself.

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

KEEP SAFETY IN YOUR SIGHTS WHEN WORKING AT HEIGHTS

Working at height can include the:

  • Use of stairs or a ladder to access machinery or an elevated platform
  • Edge of a dock within the warehouse
  • Getting in and out of plant / mobile equipment or vehicles

TIP: Try to do as much work as you can while you are on the ground

THREE POINTS OF CONTACT RULE

Following the three points of contact rule can help prevent slips and falls. This means maintaining three points of contact when mounting or dismounting equipment or when climbing or descending stairs and ladders, such as:

  • Two feet and a hand holding a rail
  • Two hands holding a rail and one foot to support your body

TIP: Secure all items when at height so that you and others are protected from falling tools

SAFETY TIPS FOR WORKING AT HEIGHTS

Whether you work at heights every day or just once in a while, there are basic steps you can follow to ensure your safety:

  • Always have good footwear to reduce the risk of a slip or trip
  • Inspect the equipment to ensure handrails and other parts are safe and not faulty or damaged
  • Make sure that handrails and foot plates are in good working order
  • Check for any wet areas or slip hazards

Finally, if you are going to work on a platform, always ensure that there is adequate fall protection in place and you are correctly licenced and trained.

IMPORTANT: If you have a phobia of heights, or have not been trained or you are not comfortable undertaking the task, then inform your supervisor or Labourpower consultant immediately.

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.

 

 

R U OK? DAY 2020: THERE’S MORE TO SAY…

Posted on by Nicki Davies


R U OK? Day 2020 (10 September) is a national day of action. A time to remind all Australians that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?”

RU OK? Day aims to encourage Australians to connect with each other and support anyone struggling with life.

By starting a conversation with someone and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up.

LABOURPOWER IS PROUD TO SUPPORT R U OK? DAY

The pressure so many Australians are feeling in 2020 makes this year more important than ever. So today, is a timely reminder to check-in with colleagues and loved ones and ask the question R U OK?

Asking ‘are you okay’ is something we can all do to make a difference. As part of our commitment to each other’s well-being, we want to encourage the importance of regular, meaningful conversation.

Remember, you don’t need to be an expert to reach out – just a good friend and a great listener.

THERE’S MORE TO SAY AFTER R U OK?

This year’s RU OK? Day message is about helping people know what to do if someone says NO, they’re not okay.

Firstly, take time to listen and help the conversation continue by asking:

  • Have you been feeling this way for a while?

Also, encourage someone to take action or find support:

  • What can I do right now to support you?
  • Have you thought about talking to your doctor?

Finally, it’s important to check-in regularly to see how they’re doing:

  • How about I check in with you again next week?
  • How have you been since we last chatted?

A CONVERSATION CAN CHANGE A LIFE

It’s not always easy to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK, but it could change a life.

Remember, you don’t have to be an expert to keep a conversation going. To help you learn what to say next, visit the R U OK? website where you’ll find some terrific resources including:

TIPS ON HOW TO ASK
  • Ask R U OK?
    Be relaxed, friendly and concerned in your approach
  • Listen with an open mind
    Take what they say seriously and don’t interrupt or rush the conversation
  • Encourage action
    Ask: “What have you done in the past to manage similar situations?”
  • Check in
    Remember to stay in touch regularly by popping reminders in your diary to call them and check in

GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED

At Labourpower, if someone approaches you and says they’re not okay then we might be able to offer them access to our employee assistance program. If you’re worried about a colleague or you need help, then please contact your Account Manager or Labourpower HR.

Starting a conversation can be tricky and sometimes, it’s just too big for work colleagues, family and friends to handle. If you or someone you know needs urgent professional support, then contact your local GP or one of the agencies listed on the R U OK? website.

 

FOOD LABELS: FUEL YOUR BODY – PART 5

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Food labels contain lots of useful information that can help you make healthy choices about the food you eat. 

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

HOW TO BE ABLE TO CHECK YOUR FOOD LABELS

Learning how to interpret labels on packaged food can help you include healthier food in your diet. When shopping for food the most useful things to pay attention to on the labels are the:

  • Nutrition information panel
  • Ingredients list
INGREDIENTS LIST

The ingredients list details all food products listed from largest to smallest by weight. You can use this to check the first three ingredients for items high in:

  • Saturated fat
  • Sodium (salt), or
  • Added sugar
ALLERGENS ON FOOD LABELS

Food labels are helpful if you have a food allergy or intolerance. The main foods or ingredients that  can cause severe adverse reactions must be declared on the label no matter how small the amount. Common foods that may cause allergies include:

  • Peanuts, Other Nuts, Seafood, Fish, Milk, Gluten, Eggs, Soybeans
NUTRITION INFORMATION PANEL

Firstly, checking out the Nutrition Information Panel on labels can help you choose healthier food. Also, knowing what to look for can help you avoid unnecessary saturated fat, added salt, added sugars and kilojoules.

TIPS FOR UNDERSTANDING FOOD LABELS

Here is a brief summary of the Dept of Health’s guidelines of what to look out for on a Nutrition Information Panel to help you make healthier food choices:

  • 100g Column and Serving Size: If comparing nutrients in similar food products use the per 100g column. If calculating how many kilojoules you will actually eat, use the per serve column. Make sure you check whether your portion size is the same as the serve size
  • Energy (Represented Kilojoules): Check how many kJ per serve to decide how much is a serve of a discretionary’ food, aka junk food / sometimes food which has 600kJ (140 calories) per serve. Eat less of these if you’re trying to lose weight
  • Total Fat: Aim for less than 10g per 100g. For cheese, look for less than 15g per 100g, and for milk, yoghurt and ice cream, less than 2g per 100g
  • Saturated Fat: Less than 3g per 100g is best but aim for the lowest possible. (As a broad rule, the greater the difference between the total fat and saturated fat, the healthier a food is deemed to be)
  • Sugar: You may not be able to avoid all sugars but know what you’re consuming.  A food with less than 5g sugar per 100g is considered low-sugar (or less than 2.5g per 100ml for a drink). More than 15g per 100g is considered high sugar, especially if sugar is among the first ingredients listed
  • Fibre: Look for 3g or more per serve
  • Sodium: Choose the lowest sodium option where possible. Less than 400mg per 100g is good, and less than 120mg per 100g is best
WHERE TO FIND MORE INFORMATION

Check out the Eat for Health website where you will find  calculators to work out your daily energy and nutrient needs as well as your average recommended serves. Visit  https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/eat-health-calculators

Finally, don’t forget to check out other posts in our Fuel Your Body series for tips about healthy food choices, such as breakfast, lunch, snacks and healthy eating for shift work.

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.

We look forward to bringing you more health and wellbeing tips as part of our FUEL YOUR BODY series.

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

 

 

COMMUNICATION: WHAT TO DO IF YOU CAN’T WORK YOUR SHIFT

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Good communication is essential when you are on the roster to work a shift. Firstly, this ensures that we know your availability at all times.  Also, that you understand client requirements at each site. 

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

WE’RE A 24/7 OPERATION AND RELY ON YOUR COMMUNICATION

YOU, together with our clients, are our most valuable asset.

The Labourpower business is reliant on meeting client expectations. This means supplying staff for all shifts. To achieve this and to keep you busy working, good communication is essential.

IMPORTANT: If you are unable to attend work you must make all reasonable efforts to let your manager know at least one hour before your start time.

KEEP IN TOUCH 24/7

We understand that there may be times when you are not available to work. And this is okay.

It’s important to let your manager know if you’re unable to work.  Then they are able to organise your replacement.

Communicating your availability is essential for future rostering.

Reasons to contact Labourpower include (but are not limited to):

  • Firstly, if you are unable to work a rostered shift
  • Also, if you are running late for work

It is also important to let us know as soon as possible if you find permanent work.

REMEMBER: Labourpower operates 24/7.  There is ALWAYS someone available for you to speak to.

TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

Labourpower does not set the shift roster times, duration, work or any changes or cancellations that the client makes. To ensure everything runs smoothly, we also recommend that you:

Firstly, keep in constant contact with your Labourpower consultant.

Remember to notify us immediately if your contact details change. It’s important that we always have your current email address and mobile number.

Also remember that it is also important to call us:

  • If something is not safe within your work,  or
  • You are asked to do something that is unsafe

Finally, if you are unsure about anything then get in touch immediately

BE COVID SAFE

If you or someone you know is displaying any coronavirus symptoms, then it is important that you DO NOT go to work. Please stay home and contact your Labourpower Branch IMMEDIATELY.

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.

 

 

SHIFT WORK – TIPS FOR HEALTHY EATING: FUEL YOUR BODY – PART 4

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Shift work can disrupt your body clock which not only affects your sleep patterns but can also wreak havoc on your diet.

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

EATING A HEALTHY MEAL CAN IMPROVE HOW YOU FEEL
  • Firstly, eating healthy food regularly makes shift work easier to manage
  • In addition, it gives you the right fuel for your body, so you have the energy you need to get you through the day

Tip: Aim to maintain a regular and healthy eating pattern throughout each day. 

WHAT SHOULD I EAT AND WHEN?

Shift work can put a strain on your body.  So, eating a healthy diet is important for your:

  • Day-to-day energy levels
  • Protecting your health, and
  • Reducing your risk of chronic illness

Avoid skipping meals, eat regularly and over a 24-hour period make sure you:

  • Firstly, aim for 3 main meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner-style meals)
  • Also, include 2-3 healthy snacks

Check out other posts in our Fuel Your Body series for tips about healthy food choices, such as breakfast, lunch  and snacks.

HEALTHY EATING TIPS FOR SHIFT WORKERS
  • Make an eating plan for the week that helps you organise food around your shifts
  • Eat lighter meals and snacks during your shift as they are easier to digest
  • Avoid high fat foods to reduce heartburn and indigestion
  • Watch the portion sizes for each meal (try not to overeat)
  • Choose healthy snacks that contain some protein
  • Avoid sugary snacks and drinks
  • Keep up your fluids and drink plenty of water
  • Limit your caffeine intake (including coffee, tea, cola and energy drinks)
  • Avoid caffeine about 6 hours before bedtime (so that you can get good sleep)
  • Avoid alcohol after a night shift
  • Eat a small meal after your shift so you don’t go to bed hungry

For further information visit: Shifting nutrition: A shift workers guide to nutrition

 

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.

We look forward to bringing you more health and wellbeing tips as part of our FUEL YOUR BODY series.

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

 

 

FACE MASKS: THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF SAFELY WEARING A MASK

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Wearing face masks to protect against coronavirus has become part of daily life for many people.

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

MAKE WEARING A MASK YOUR NUMBER ONE TASK
  • If you are unknowingly infected a face mask will help reduce the chance that you could spread the virus to others
  • Therefore, it is important to know how to put on a mask properly

Tip: A mask should fit securely around the face, specifically covering your nose and mouth areas

ARE MASKS COMPULSORY?
  • Victoria has made face masks mandatory
  • In the rest of Australia, the wearing of masks has become strongly recommended

Note: Some clients outside VIC may require you to wear a mask

DO’S FOR WEARING A MEDICAL MASK SAFELY
  • Firstly, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water before touching the face mask
  • Next, check your mask for any tears or holes
  • Ensure that the coloured side faces outwards
  • Find the top side where the metal piece or stiff edge is, place this over your nose and press to form fit it to your face
  • Make sure the mask covers your mouth, nose, and chin
  • Adjust to ensure no gaps between your mask and face
  • Avoid touching your face mask
  • Keep the mask away from you or any surface when removing it
  • Use the straps to safely remove the mask and store in a resealable sandwich / zip lock style bag
  • Wash your hands after handling your mask
  • Finally, pay attention to your mask expiry period and know when to discard it

Tip: It is important to wash or sanitise your hands before putting on and taking off your mask

DON’TS
  • Firstly, don’t use a damaged, damp or loose mask as they will not be effective
  • Also, never wear the mask only over mouth or nose (both must be covered)
  • Do not touch the front of your mask or do other things that will require touching the mask
  • Finally, do not leave your used mask within the reach of others OR leave your face mask where it can be contaminated

Important: Remember that masks alone do not protect you from COVID-19. You must still maintain a 1.5m distance from others wherever possible and always wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, even while wearing a mask.

SAFETY GOES 24/7

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

 

 

HEALTHY SNACKS: FUEL YOUR BODY – PART 3

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Healthy snacks are an important part of healthy eating.

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

IT’S TIME FOR HEALTHY SNACKING WHEN ENERGY IS LACKING

Healthy snacks should be eaten between meals to help ease your hunger.When you eat healthy snacks they should provide you with the:

  • Nutrients your body needs
  • Also, energy to get you through the day

People who eat well are more likely to be healthier, happier and more productive.

BEAT THE SNACK ATTACK

Processed foods are filled with carbs and sugar. Therefore, they won’t give you the nutrients you need to get through your working day. You might get a rush at first, but you’ll soon find you come crashing down.

Healthy snack choices can help you beat the slump as well as helping you to:

  • Stay energised
  • Be more productive
  • Sharpen your mind
  • Improve your mood
  • Feel engaged
  • Make better food choices
TIPS FOR HEALTHY SNACK HABITS

Nutritious snack choices help boost mental and physical performance.

Firstly, aim to pack your own healthy snacks that you can take to work each day.

Also,  create a routine by planning your snack times between meals.

Try to avoid unhealthy choices from vending machines and make sure you drink plenty of water throughout your day.

Finally, choose nutritious options that will help keep your energy levels up throughout the day, for example:

  • 40g unsalted mixed nuts + 1 rye cruskit and sliced avocado with pepper to taste
  • 1 wholegrain crispbread (such as a vita-wheat) with reduced fat cream cheese or peanut butter
  • A boiled egg
  • A small tub of high protein plain yoghurt with fresh or frozen berries
  • A slice of cheese on a rice cake

Source: https://blog.csiro.au/healthy-filling-snacks

 

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.

We look forward to bringing you more health and wellbeing tips as part of our FUEL YOUR BODY series.

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