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IWSH PROJECT UPDATE
WHSEQ MANAGERS REPORT
The IWSH foundation (International Water, Sanitation & Hygiene) have teamed up with the Rwandan Plumbing Organisation (RPO) in Central Africa to deliver a new toilet block to the Munazi Primary School in the Gisagara District of Southern Province, Rwanda.
Step back, Take 5 and Stay Safe
Paul Harrington (Cooke & Dowsett Albury) was selected by IWSH to assist a group of Australian Architects and two plumbers from the RPO in Rwanda to join Zoom workshops in August 2021. The purpose of the workshops was to conduct interviews with the local community leaders, the school principal and school members to gather information about the schools’ requirements in order to build a suitable toilet block that would service the school’s 800 students. The group put together a suitable design for the new building which consisted of separate male and female zones, disabled access and water storage tanks for local squat toilets.
We all know that the lead-up to Christmas is traditionally busy at both home and work and when we are rushed to meet tight deadlines, the chances of mistakes are higher and can lead to serious, or even tragic incidents.
The design was then presented to the school for approval, IWSH now intend to engage local contractors to construct the facility. This is the first time IWSH has conducted a virtual design with the pandemic obviously not allowing the normal on-site design week. Construction is planned to commence in 2022. Hear from the design week participants including our very own Paul Harrington via Linkedin https://www.linkedin. com/posts/iwshfoundation_givingtuesday-activity6871523233401716737-NhFG/
2021 has been tough year and with the holiday season fast approaching, many if not all of us are keen to get 2021 over and done with.
Now more than ever its important to keep safety front of mind - no deadline is worth an injury and/or someones life. The largest percentage of all workplace fatalities occur in November and December and it is crucial that we all understand the risks associated with the busy preChristmas period and work together to prevent a workplace injury. The safest workplace is the one where we stop, take time and think about the work we are doing and plan to do it safely, it could make the difference between life and death. Before starting work: • Do a self-check to see if you are fit for work • Ensure your head is in the game and you are able to focus on your work. • Complete an inspection of your work area as well as any tools or equipment used. • Take 5 to ensure all the necessary safeguards are in place, i.e., SWMS & PPE • Stop work if needed to address and report hazards. Don’t become a Christmas statistic, for the sake of your family and friends, make workplace safety your number one priority.
Proposed Toilet Munazi Primary School, Rwanda
Remember to: start safe, work safe, home safe, stay safe. For any further help, information or advice in regards to any WSH matter don’t hesitate to contact me on 0418 333 362. Kevin Mc Keown National WHSEQ Manager 4
