Author: Nicki Davies

YOU’RE INVITED TO VISIT THE NEW LABOURPOWER TRADE WEBSITE

Posted on by Nicki Davies

We invite you to visit the Labourpower Trade website. Complete with our new branding, the website makes it easier to:  

  • Connect skilled tradespeople with jobs, and
  • Help employers fill job vacancies

Following the recent launch of Labourpower Trade, we are thrilled to introduce our new website. It offers a user-friendly experience with easy to access information and useful resources for job seekers, employees and clients.

Here are some of the new features that we are excited to share with you:

  • Firstly, a new responsive design that ensures easy browsing on your mobile, laptop, tablet or desktop
  • Also, easy to read content and information about our services and the industries we support

The Labourpower Trade website showcases our new branding that not only looks great but reflects our expanded services to clients and job seekers working as part of the Labourpower family.

There are also other features for you to enjoy including:

Labourpower Trade Candidates and Job Seekers
  • Under the CANDIDATE SECTION you will find a snapshot of the current jobs we have available. Can’t find the job you’re looking for? Simply click on the Contact Us button to get in touch with your nearest Labourpower Trade office
Labourpower Trade Clients
  • Under the CLIENT SECTION Labourpower Trade clients will find an easy to complete form to let us know about the vacancies you need to fill. Our experienced team of recruiters can respond quickly with quality skilled people to meet your staffing needs
Connect with Labourpower Trade

This is an exciting time for our business, and we invite you to connect with Labourpower Trade and stay informed about our continued growth and opportunities.

Our new website features links to Labourpower’s Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, which is where you will also find the latest Labourpower Trade jobs, news and developments.

Finally, we hope that you enjoy visiting the new Labourpower Trade website and welcome any feedback you have.

 

 

SAFETY BOOTS: THE IMPORTANCE OF PPE – PART 3

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Wearing protective safety boots at work helps prevent unnecessary accidents and ensure safe and healthy feet.

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

TAKE TIME TO TAKE CARE WITH THE RIGHT FOOTWEAR
  • Your safety boots must be suitable for your work environment and job tasks (some workplaces such as food manufacturers will require you to wear the boots they provide)

Tip: Maintain treads on shoes to help reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls in wet areas

THE IMPORTANCE OF WEARING FOOT PROTECTION

Steel toe work boots help protect your feet against crush injuries from fallen objects (can withstand over 1000kg of compression) as well as:

  • Burns from chemical spills
  • Punctures to the bottom of your feet such as nails
PROTECTING YOUR FEET AT WORK

Firstly, your safety boots must meet Australian standards and fit you correctly (poorly fitted shoes can lead to common foot problems such as corns and calluses)

Also, choose safety boots that cover the ankle to provide additional support and help prevent rolled ankles (avoid sandshoe type steel caps as they offer no protection to the ankle)

Remember, your boots are looking after an important body part so make sure that you always maintain and look after them properly:

  • Always store your safety boots in a safe and dry place
  • Keep your laces tied tightly to avoid any trip hazards
  • Replace your boots if there is any damage to them
  • Replace your boots if they are worn out

Tip: Consider wearing supportive socks with your boots to help keep your feet comfortable

IMPORTANT: Failure to wear safety boots will result in you being sent home

 

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 PPE series.

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

 

 

EATING A HEALTHY LUNCH: FUEL YOUR BODY – PART 2

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Eating a healthy lunch every day is important to your wellbeing and productivity. Making time for a healthy lunch gives you the energy you need to get through an afternoon of work.

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

GET YOUR LUNCH RIGHT WITH EVERY BITE
  • Eating lunch helps reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks
  • Eating lunch helps avoid afternoon energy slumps so that you stay alert

Taking a lunch break allows your mind to rest, recharge and refocus.

EAT LUNCH EVERY DAY

Eating a healthy lunch and taking time for a lunch break at work gives your physical and mental health a boost. Studies show that taking a lunch break can directly improve your productivity for the rest of the day as well as making your working day more enjoyable.

Making time for lunch is important to your overall wellbeing. The benefits of eating a healthy lunch each day include (but are not limited to):

  • Improves physical health
  • Greater enjoyment of work day
  • Helps ability to cope with stress
  • Recharges your brain
  • Helps control your weight
  • Increases afternoon energy levels
TIPS FOR A HEALTHY LUNCH ROUTINE

Eating lunch every day will give you with the energy you need to work through the afternoon.

Firstly, aim to pack your own healthy lunch that you can take to work each day. Also try to plan your daily lunches in advance and include lunches that you know you will enjoy.

In addition, cook a bit extra for dinner or over the weekend so that you can take leftovers for lunch.

Make sure that your lunch gives you enough fuel to get you through the rest of your working day i.e. someone who does manual labour and physical work needs more high energy foods at lunchtime than someone who does sedentary work in an office.

Visit the Better Health website or Nutrition Australia 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.

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.

 

 

HIGH-VISIBILITY (HI VIS) CLOTHING: THE IMPORTANCE OF PPE – PART 2

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

High-visibility clothing (Hi Vis) plays a critical role in maintaining safety at work and preventing workplace accidents

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

GET YOUR SAFETY RIGHT, WEAR HI VIS ON SITE
  • Unless there are specific uniform requirements at the host client’s site, workers must wear high visibility (Hi Vis) clothing. This ensures that you are easily visible and also helps to minimise the risk of workplace accidents
THE IMPORTANCE OF WEARING HI VIS

Hi Vis clothing ensures that it is easy to see you when working on-site. The human eye responds best to large, contrasting, bright or moving objects. Therefore, the high colour contrast between clothing and the work environment in which it is seen enhances your visibility.

PROTECTING YOURSELF AT WORK

Hi Vis clothing plays a major role in maintaining safety and preventing accidents:

  • You must wear Hi Vis on site, especially when working around mobile and moving equipment
  • Hi Vis helps others to see you when working in dark environments when visibility is reduced and also assists with host clients’ Traffic Management Plans
  • Make sure your Hi Vis is not damaged, faded or worn out and that it surrounds your body fully (in a 360’ way)

Hi Vis clothing helps reduce the risk of injuries and accidents in busy environments.

However, it’s important to remember that Hi Vis forms only one part of safety on site, do not rely upon on it as fail safe measure.

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 PPE series.

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

 

 

BREAKFAST BENEFITS: FUEL YOUR BODY – PART 1

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

A good breakfast every day provides plenty of benefits to your overall health and wellbeing. Eating breakfast breaks your overnight fast and gives you the fuel you need to boost energy levels and alertness as you start your day. 

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

A GOOD BREKKIE EACH DAY FUELS YOUR BODY THE RIGHT WAY
  • Eating breakfast replenishes your energy
  • Eating breakfast helps to kick start your metabolism

Nutritionists advise that you eat breakfast within two hours of waking.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST

Making time to eat something nutritious at the start of your day can make a great deal of difference to your overall wellbeing. Eating a healthy breakfast also has long-term health benefits. It can help reduce obesity, high blood pressure, risk of heart disease and diabetes.

There are plenty of reasons why eating breakfast each day is good for you, including:

  • Increases energy levels
  • Boosts memory and concentration
  • Provides essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients
  • Stabilises blood sugar levels
  • Improves metabolism
  • Helps you make better food choices throughout the day
TIPS TO SHAKE UP YOUR WAKE UP

Eating a good brekkie energises your mind and body which helps improves your focus and productivity.  Here are some tips for including breakfast in your day:

Firstly, try to create a routine that fits in with your schedule. For example, setting your alarm 10 minutes earlier to make time to eat brekkie at home

In addition, choose nutritious options such as protein, fibre and wholegrains. This means that your breakfast keeps you energised and alert throughout the day, for example:

  • Wholegrain toast with a thin scrape of peanut butter, or avocado and spinach or reduced fat ricotta
  • Porridge or yoghurt with fresh fruit
  • Wholegrain cereals with reduced fat milk
  • Fruit or vegetable smoothies
  • Boiled eggs with wholegrain toast

Visit the Nutrition Australia website for more information  https://nutritionaustralia.org/fact-sheets/breakfast/

 

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.

 

 

INTRODUCING LABOURPOWER TRADE

Posted on by Nicki Davies

1 July 2020: We are excited to announce that RRC Australia will now be known as Labourpower Trade. 

Labourpower and RRC Australia (RRCA) first partnered in May 2018. This move saw the two market leaders extend recruitment specialist capabilities around Australia.

After two years of exciting partnership, Labourpower Trade Managing Director Zac Webber says that the new name and branding is the logical next step for the business.

Creating Greater Access to Jobs

“The past two years have been incredible for RRC Australia. Working as part of the Labourpower family, we have been able to strengthen our service to clients, as well as create more opportunities for job seekers across the country in the Roads, Rail and Construction industries,” he said.

Expanding Our Talent Pool and Services to Clients

As a result of client demand, Zac says that the company has also expanded its services in other sectors, for example:

  • Manufacturing
  • Logistics
  • Mining
  • Waste
  • Landscaping

“Therefore, our new name, logo and branding better reflects who we are as a business today, as well as the award-winning solutions that we offer,” he said.

In addition, Labourpower Managing Director Luke Webber says that the launch of Labourpower Trade helps solidify the company’s position as a trusted provider of staffing solutions to key industry sectors around Australia.

“Our vision has always been to make a difference in the world of recruitment. We are thrilled to combine our knowledge and expertise under the Labourpower banner,” he said.

“Most importantly, we have the same great people and same great service that RRCA is known for. But as Labourpower Trade, we have even more power and innovation to achieve great outcomes for our clients and candidates.”

Providing the Teams That Help Build Australia

As a result, Labourpower Trade will continue to focus on local jobs for local people. The new company name, logo and branding reflects the skilled tradespeople and specialist recruitment solutions the company provides across key industry sectors including, for example:

  • Civil Infrastructure
  • Rail
  • Construction
  • Landscaping
  • Logistics
  • Scaffolding
  • Transport
  • Mining and Resources
  • Manufacturing
  • Food Manufacturing
  • Warehousing and Distribution
  • Packaging
  • Waste and Refuse
  • Government

We are excited to share this news with you and invite you to check out our new Labourpower Trade website.

You can also stay up-to-date with all the latest Labourpower Trade developments by connecting with us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

 

 

EFFECTIVE WORKFORCE PLANNING: THE RIGHT STAFF AT THE RIGHT TIME

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

With the start of a new financial year fast approaching, now is a good time to look at your staffing needs for the year ahead. Effective workforce planning can help you attract and retain quality talent to maximise company performance.

5 Steps to Effective Workforce Planning

Here are just some of the ways you can ensure that your business has the right staff at the right time…

1. ANALYSE PAST TRENDS

Firstly, analyse business data from previous years. This can help you build a clearer picture of the number of people you’ll need at different times of the year. Start by cross-referencing previous workforce records and sales data as this will alert you to the times that you were under or overstaffed. Also, you can use this information to prepare some valuable forward-looking data for the months ahead.

2. REVIEW CURRENT OPERATIONS

A review of your current operations and a clear plan of your future business goals is also important for successful workforce planning. Identify issues that affect staffing, talent development and/or plans for new hires. For example:

  • Planned business growth
  • Developments in your industry
  • Changes to customer behaviour

Also, review any seasonal demand that affects your business workforce and the skill sets you need.

3. KEEP A RECORD OF STRONG PERFORMERS

Keep a record of hires who performed well during previous peak periods. Then you will be able to recruit them again when you need extra staff. Strong past performers already know your business and understand what’s expected of them. This way you’ll get to save time and money on recruitment and training. Also, previous hires will feel valued keeping work motivation levels high.

4. CONSULT WITH A LABOUR HIRE SPECIALIST

Using a recruitment agency, such as Labourpower,  can add value when it comes to strategic workforce planning. An effective recruiter will work closely with your line managers and other key stakeholders. Together, they can forecast and predict potential influxes of staffing requirements.  Your recruiter will also ensure the right fit for your business is always on hand when you need them. They achieve this through:

  • Effective staff recruitment processes
  • Staff incentive schemes
  • Training and upskilling programs
  • Succession planning and more!
5. MAKE USE OF STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY

When you partner with Labourpower you also get access to a state-of-the-art Online Portal that delivers a best practice HR Workforce management solution. Clients have live access to valuable data including comprehensive reports that give you transparency over your entire labour hire operation.

Hiring the right staff shouldn’t be overwhelming – and that’s where we can help!  Labourpower works closely with businesses to provide effective workforce planning solutions tailored to your budget and business needs.

Connect with us on LinkedIn or speak to our experienced recruiters today.

 

 

 

HEARING PROTECTION: THE IMPORTANCE OF PPE – PART 1

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Workers must wear hearing protection PPE whenever exposed to loud or hazardous noise.

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

PROTECT WHAT YOU HEAR WITH THE RIGHT PPE GEAR
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is specific equipment worn to help safeguard you against identified health and safety risks within the workplace
  • Unlike eyes that can shut, ears cannot protect themselves from loud noises, therefore it is important to wear hearing protection PPE
HEARING PROTECTION IS A SOUND INVESTMENT
  • Constant noise exposure can not only lead to hearing loss but can be associated with other medical conditions
  • Hearing loss does not discriminate, it can even affect young people in the workplace
  • Protect your hearing by wearing the correct PPE
PROTECTING YOUR HEARING AT WORK

Long term exposure to loud noise can lead to tinnitus and other hearing problems.

  • Always wear appropriate hearing protection PPE for the task
  • Make sure that there is no damage to your PPE or that it is not worn out
  • Ensure that it has the correct rating for the task
  • Always ensure that your hearing protection PPE fits correctly

Finally, never become complacent in the tasks you are doing just because you are wearing PPE as the hazards may still exist.

NOTE: Loud workplaces should implement proper and correct hearing PPE. If not, then contact your Labourpower representative.

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 PPE series.

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

 

 

SMOKING AND YOUR HEALTH: IS IT TIME TO QUIT?

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Tobacco smoking is the main cause of preventable death and disease in Australia.  It’s never too late to quit smoking! Even if you’ve smoked for years, once you’ve quit smoking you can reverse the effects and experience the health benefits.

SMOKING AND THE WORKPLACE

All indoor and enclosed areas in a workplace including company vehicles should be smoke-free. Make sure that you are familiar with the smoking policy at your place of work.

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

DID YOU KNOW?
  • 20 minutes after your last cigarette your blood pressure and pulse will start to return to normal levels
  • 24 hours after your last cigarette you will have already decreased your risk of heart attack
  • Giving up smoking can also reduce anxiety by more than a third
QUITTING HAS MANY BENEFITS

If you’re a smoker then deciding to quit can be one of the best things you can do for your health. You and those around you will start to benefit almost immediately:

  • Improve health, reduce risk of disease
  • Look younger and live longer
  • Help friends,  family and the environment
  • Save money
TIPS TO HELP YOU GET STARTED
  • Set a date to quit and try to stick to it
  • Find approach that is going to work for you (some people find patches, chewing gum or other nicotine replacement products useful)
  • Find ways to distract yourself and try to change any habits you associate with craving a cigarette
  • Let your friends and family know you are trying to quit and ask for their support
  • Try some form of exercise (walking, bike riding, stretching) – it will  help you beat the cravings
  • Be kind to yourself. Some days will be easier than others but it’s important to keep going
  • For more information, visit the Quitline website, speak to your GP or call the Quitline on 13 7848

 

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.