Category: Toolbox Talk

WORKING IN HEAT: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Posted on by Nicki Davies

 

Working in heat can be challenging, so it’s important to know what steps to take to protect yourself. 

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

WORK SAFELY THIS SUMMER AND BEAT THE HEAT

During extreme heat it is easy for your body to become dehydrated or for your body to overheat, so you need to know how to work safely in hot weather to help:

  • Protect your health, safety and wellbeing
  • Prevent heat stroke, heat illnesses and heat stress injuries in the workplace
SIP, SLOP, SLAP

Heat stress and illness as a result of working in hot conditions can increase your chance of injury. This is because it can reduce your ability to concentrate and recognise risks. Therefore, it’s important to understand sun safety and take steps to protect yourself from fatigue and heat stress, particularly during the summer months.

  • SIP on a drink
  • SLOP on some sunscreen
  • SLAP on a hat

IMPORTANT:

  • Remember that all skin types can be damaged by exposure to UV radiation. So make sure that you are sun-safe everyday even when it’s cool or cloudy.
  • Also, use SPF 30 (or higher), broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. And remember to reapply it every two hours and even more frequently if sweating.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM HEAT STRESS
  • Firstly, stay well hydrated during your shifts by drinking plenty of water (don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more).
  • Also, try to avoid  alcohol, coffee, tea, and high-level caffeine / energy type drinks. This can increase dehydration and may affect your quality of work.

    IMPORTANT: Consuming alcohol prior or during your shift is in breach of Labourpower and client policies and also impairs your ability placing others at risk.

  • In addition, eat regularly, reduce your intake of heavy food  and follow a well-balanced diet.
  • Wear protective clothing (PPE) including lightweight clothing that helps protect you from the heat. Change your uniform if your clothes become saturated and use sunscreen when working outside.
  • Finally, pace yourself throughout the day. Build up to heavy work, understand your limits, take scheduled breaks and rest if fatigued.

For more information, visit the SunSmart 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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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

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

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

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.