Summary

Workers should carry out their duties in a manner which does not affect their own health and safety or that of others. They should cooperate with any risk control measures that are introduced and undertake any training that they need in relation to WHS. This training may include use of PPE, manual handling or on how to operate the safety devices provided on furniture such as cots for babies.

If an employee spots a potential hazard, they should be encouraged to immediately report all matters which may affect their workplace health and safety or that of others to their manager or room leader. A culture of safety should be embedded and any educators who intentionally misuse or recklessly interfere with anything that has been provided for health and safety reasons should be approached and spoken to by management.

Educators and staff members who work in education and care services should understand that everyone is responsible for their own safety and they are also responsible for the safety of others, including their colleagues, families and children.

All accidents are preventable when a culture of safety is embedded and educators and staff members respect and follow the service rules, regulations and procedures. When services encourage professional learning and training, safety is an aspect of the service in which educators can become proactive, rather than reactive. Practising good housekeeping and being prepared are vital to protecting workers in the workplace.