SafeAssure Newsletter: Edition 5

SafeAsNewsletter

SafeAsNewsletter

Current and Recently Awarded Projects Important Dates

COEX 2024 WHSE Scheme Network Audits

Vikcon – Development of Integrated Management System and assistance with ISO45001 Certification

Queensland Rail – QRWomen Culture and Leadership Development Training Program

External WHS Auditor

Mira by Kaicon/Frank Developmentshttps://wwwmiragoldcoastcomau/

External WHS Auditor

Brickworks Parks by Brisbane Buildershttps://brickworksparkcomau/

External WHS Auditor

Echo on the Bay by Brisbane Buildershttps://echoonthebaycomau/

External WHS Auditor

Aquatic Achievers by JBS Buildhttps://aquaticachieverscomau/ Loganholme and Samford Valley

External WHS Auditor

Ascot Row by Holm Built - https://wwwascotrowcomau/

External WHS Auditor

Pebble Creek by See Civil - https://livepebblecreek.com.au/

Melanoma March

Great time to encourage all staff to undergo a skin check

8 March 2024

International Womens Day

18 - 24 March 2024

Worlds Greatest Shave

7 April 2024

World Health Day

28 April 2024

World Day for Safety and Health at Work

29 April - 5 May 2024

Heart Week

For a full list of health events in 2024 visit https://www.finder.com.au/healthevents-calendar

Director’sMessage

GarethDavies,ManagingDirector

Here we are in March already, with the year racing ahead faster than many could imagine. Whilst it felt like many people in the industry didn't come back until after Australia Day, the SafeAssure team has been flat out from early January supporting clients to ensure they commenced the year safely.

Not only are we forecasting 2024 to be a big year for growth and expansion, we are also very excited about, and looking forward to, celebrating our 10th year in business SafeAssure was established back in September 2014 and started from humble beginnings with just myself and my laptop. It is with great pride and a sense of achievement that we are at this milestone of achieving 10 years

We have grown into a team of almost 12 full time equivalents, which makes up our internal team of eight; four regular contractors; and other ad hoc contractors I couldn't be happier with where the business is positioned, ensuring we capitalise on significant opportunities that are currently being presented to us We are winning work through our existing relationships, client referrals, repeat work, public tenders and through our excellent reputation in the marketplace.

Like all businesses, as we continue to grow, there are always struggles and the expected ups and downs. However, we have an outstanding team and an excellent culture which ensures that we are willing to have the tough conversations and work together to find resolutions This applies not just internally, but particularly when providing guidance to clients on best practices. As many of you may have seen from my recently posted videos on our social media platforms, one of our core values is ‘Grounded in Principles’ and it's important for our clients to know that this is fundamental to our team when providing advice.

As challenging as it may sometimes be, our clients can feel confident in knowing that they are not going to receive guidance that is purely the most convenient or agreeable, but rather, what will be the most appropriate advice for their situation Follow up from difficult advice is a vital part of the process in supporting clients to find the right solution and something that I instil in our team. There is no point in identifying problems if, under the correct engagement, we don't provide the necessary guidance or support in assisting the client in finding the solution. Obviously, this isn't the case when work is as an independent auditor, but in many circumstances at the end of the day we are there to ensure works are carried out safely

Director’sMessage

GarethDavies,ManagingDirector

To ensure the best service to our clients and to the industry, we continue to improve our back of house services and forward-facing strategies Part of this ongoing development includes increasing our information sharing through email and social platforms. We endeavour to simplify legislative requirements to ensure that employers and workers can interpret the information provided and apply it within their workplace. If there are any topics or agendas that you'd like us to address, please contact me directly or leave comments or suggestions on our social media posts and we will work on a new post or series to cover the topic

We trust all of you are looking forward to a big year ahead in both your professional and personal lives. In our 10th year we will definitely have some celebrating to do, but please watch this space as we will also have some big project announcements soon and some upcoming additional service offerings, in both the training and technology areas.

Gareth Davies Managing Director

Celebrating

ServiceSpotlight

WorkplaceInvestigations

We're seizing this moment to shine a spotlight on one of our standout services, especially for those who may not be aware it's in our arsenal: Workplace Investigations.

At SafeAssure, we take pride in being your go-to partner for all things related to ensuring workplace safety and compliance

For those unfamiliar, our Incident Investigation service is a cornerstone of what we do. When unforeseen events occur, having a reliable plan in place is vital That's where we step in

SafeAssure is your trusted ally in the swift and effective management and investigation of workplace incidents. We've handled over 30 Serious Disabling Injuries, conducted over 400 WorkCover QLD Investigations, and taken more than 1,000 Statements – showcasing our commitment to thorough and impactful investigations

Tailored Expertise, Unmatched Quality

What sets our service apart is our commitment to delivering quality, independent, and unbiased investigations We've been sought after by major national construction and mining companies, agriculture organisations, manufacturing & distribution companies, and many more for intricate incident investigations, demonstrating our expertise in the field.

From personal and public injuries to serious incidents, dangerous events, and fatalities, our investigations cover the spectrum Utilising methodologies like the ICAM process, we not only support business operations, but also pinpoint root causes and facilitate positive change within organisations.

Proven Experience in Diverse Incidents

SafeAssure's track record speaks volumes, with diverse experiences from fatal incidents and underground inrush events in coal mines, to amputations resulting from vehicle incidents, numerous harassment and bullying investigations and building dispute investigations, SafeAssure has navigated through it all.

When it comes to workplace investigations, SafeAssure is not just a service provider – we ' re your dedicated partner.

This specialised service is our way of ensuring your workplace remains safe, compliant, and equipped to handle any challenges that come your way

We're here to support you in every step of the investigation process, providing peace of mind and a commitment to excellence.

WHS Workplace Fatality Statistics - year to date

Keeping safe at work should be a top priority for all organisations Safe Work Australia recently released some preliminary fatality data for 2023 and early 2024 Shockingly, as of 14 February 2024, there had already been 10 work related fatalities across Australia this year. SafeAssure is passionate about communicating with and coaching our clients on how to keep their workplace and their employees as safe as possible

Please click on the link below to hear a short, but very important message from Gareth Davies about how SafeAssure can work with you and your organisation by helping to manage risk and ensure that workers go home safely.

Important Update: New Guidance on Family and Domestic Violence at Work

Safe Work Australia has released an updated Fact Sheet on Family and Domestic Violence at Work. This is not an easy subject, but it is one that requires our collective understanding and action

Access the Updated Fact Sheet: https://bitly/49LdIOm

Understanding the Gravity:

Family and Domestic Violence encompasses a range of harmful behaviours within intimate relationships, causing physical, sexual, or psychological harm. It's a pervasive issue that affects the health and wellbeing of those involved

When Does it Become a WHS Issue?

This is a Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) matter when it poses a risk to workers' safety, be it at the physical workplace or during work-related activities, including remote work situations.

Responsibilities of Employers (PCBUs):

Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) have a responsibility to eliminate or minimise these risks The updated Fact Sheet provides guidance on how organisations can create a safe environment, offering practical steps and resources.

SafeAssure - Supporting Your Workplace:

If your organisation has questions or seeks advice on mitigating the risks associated with Family and Domestic Violence at the Workplace, SafeAssure is here to assist

Phone: 0477 777 044

Email: admin@safeassure.com.au

Website: wwwsafeassurecomau

We understand the gravity of this issue and want to emphasise that our aim is to support organisations in creating safer workplaces Our network also includes employment law professionals ready to provide guidance.

In Case of Immediate Danger: Remember, if a worker or anyone at your workplace is in immediate danger, call 000.

Let's approach this matter with the seriousness it deserves, fostering awareness and proactive measures for a safer workplace

SafetyNewscont...

Mental Health - WorkSafe Initiatives

Mental health continues to be one of the key topics of conversation in the workplace and there are some terrific initiatives across the country including those below.

For organisations in Victoria, if you have not done so already, please check out a fantastic initiative from WorkSafe Victoria – the WorkWell Program. Within this program are some fantastic resources that can be accessed including the WorkWell Survey (a free tool to assess the mental health and safety of your workplace), WorkWell Toolkit, Case Studies, Information about the WorkWell Mental Health Improvement Fund and other highly beneficial material For information, please visit WorkWell | WorkSafe Victoria

Mentally healthy workplaces workshops 2024 - Did you know that you can attend free workshops through WorkSafe Qld? But you need to get in quick to register as places fill up fast! To find out more information and to register please visit https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/news-andevents/events/2024/mentally-healthy-workplaces-workshops

Additionally, a wide range of online Safety Webinars spanning multiple industries are available here https://wwwsafeworknswgovau/advice-and-resources/online-safety-webinars

SafetyNewscont...

WORKING OUTSIDE IN SUMMER

Keeping workers safe when working outside in summer

Working outdoors in summer involves work health and safety risks, including from heat, sun exposure, adverse weather conditions and bushfires

These risks are not just ‘part of the job’ Persons conducting a business or undertaking (such as employers) have a legal duty to eliminate or minimise the risks of working outdoors as much as they reasonably can

Manage the risks

Heat and sun exposure

Scan the QR code

Find out more on the Safe Work Australia website:

swagovau/ safety-topic/hazards/ working-outside

The best way to manage risks is to eliminate them Plan work so it can be done indoors, in the shade, or during cooler parts of the day

Employers must provide workers with access to plenty of drinking water

Employers must provide workers with personal protective equipment In the case of outdoor work, this could mean long sleeved clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat

Employers should provide workers with regular breaks

The type of work being done can also increase the risks from working in heat For example, Australian roofs regularly exceed 60 degrees in summer

Adverse weather conditions

Employers should monitor the Bureau of Meteorology for information on adverse weather including heat waves, strong winds, heavy or sudden rain, floods and lightning

Employers must have an emergency plan outlining what to do if there is an emergency at the workplace

Workers should be reassigned to indoor duties if adverse weather occurs

Bushfires (including bushfire smoke)

Monitor air quality, fire danger ratings and bushfire warnings issued by your local authorities

Relocate work indoors or away from at-risk or bushfire prone areas

Use P2/N95 masks and eye protection if workers must work in bushfire smoke

SWAGOVAU | FEBRUARY 2024

SafetyNewscont...

Young Driver Safety

We all know a young driver, perhaps a family member or one of your work colleagues, and understand how nerve racking it can be when they are learning to drive or are on their P Plates Qld Raceway have partnered with Qld Emergency Services, to offer a fantastic and potentially life-saving opportunity for Learner Drivers (although every driver is welcome) to attend a Learner Driver Night session held on the Qld Raceway Circuit. The session runs for one hour with the next one scheduled for 11 April 2024 It is very easy to register and costs $40 More information can be found here Learner Driver Nights (qldraceways.com.au)

Another excellent program recommended by a highly experienced Police Officer at the Learner Driver Night is the Teen Defensive Driving Course located at Norwell, Gold Coast This course costs $260 and runs for 3 hours. More information can be found here Teen Defensive Driving - Norwell Motorplex

Both of these programs, without doubt, are money very well spent if it can prevent the loss of another young drivers life

SupplyingtoQldGovernmentFundedProjects

In our December newsletter we addressed the compliance requirements for companies interested in supplyingtoQueenslandGovernmentFundedProjects. Withalloftheexcitementintheleadupto the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane, we thouht it would be timely to provide a refresher on this information and how SafeAssure can support your business at every level in achieving safety excellence, full compliance, and fostering a culture of Zero Harm. Our expertise positions your businessforsuccessintheworldofmajorprojects

Work Health Safety in Major Projects

Compliancerequirementsspanfromtiers2to5,withhigherstandardsforonsitework. Scrutiny of compliance commitments occurs through tender specs, contracts, and prequalificationprocesses.

Tier 3 and lower companies must understand and meet compliance requirements relevant to theirlevel

MeetingQueenslandWHSlegislation(WorkHealthandSafetyAct2011)isimperative Certification in ISO 45001:2018, an Occupational Health and Safety management system, enhancesattractivenesstoprojects

Where does your business currently sit on the WHS scale?

SafeAssure is more than a consultancy service; we ' re your partners in readiness, offering the expertise and up-to-date knowledge needed to ensure your business meets evolving standards and challengesintheconstructionindustry.

SupplyingtoQldGovernmentFundedProjects

How Can SafeAssure Support Your Business?

Government Compliance Assessments: Thorough assessments to ensure compliance with statutory and legislative regulations, accompanied by comprehensive reports and action plans

ISO Compliance Management Systems: Development, implementation, and maintenance of ISO-compliant management systems, including ISO 45001 for Occupational Health and Safety.

Onsite HSEQ Audits: Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality audits to pinpoint risks and non-compliance issues, ensuring alignment with government expectations.

Risk Management Strategies: Tailored risk management strategies for major projects, identifying, evaluating, and mitigating risks in complex supply chains.

Compliance Documentation and Training: Assistance in preparing and maintaining compliance documentation, along with training programs to educate your workforce on government compliance requirements.

Supplier Qualification Support: Navigating prequalification processes, meeting tender specifications, and enhancing overall supplier qualifications for improved competitiveness.

Don't leave safety and compliance to chance. Contact SafeAssure today to ensure your business is well-prepared to thrive in Queensland's major projects market.

For further information on the Brisbane 2032 Infrastructure Program and the Review of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic venue Master Plan please visit the Qld Government State Development and Infrastructure page.

https://wwwstatedevelopmentqldgovau/industry/brisbane-2032

SpotlightonaTeamMember

Tyson Fiedler

Senior Business Management Systems Consultant

We are certainly privilidged to have Ty on our SafeAssure team as the Senior Business Management Systems Consultant. Ty has worked as a HSEQ Systems Consultant and has been connected with SafeAssure since 2017. Prior to that, he worked in various group level roles in safety, quality, environment, assurance, and compliance.

He brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge from many varied sectors including construction (commercial, civil, and industrial), oil and gas (Australia and PNG). His clients have included: Santos, Origin, Exxon Mobil, CBI-Clough, Rio Tinto, MPC Kinetic, Queensland Rail, Transport and Logistics - JJ Richards & Sons and Queensland Education.

Ty enjoys the diversity of clientele that comes with consultancy and always aims to value add in all interactions he has with his clients. He believes in collaborative interactions with everyone he meets

Ty’s varied work career includes roles as a nurse at RBWH, working at the CBA bank/Heritage Bank (13 years), Business Manager (3 years), Business Owner (2 years) and his Construction industry and safety / HSEQ career launched in 2003

On a personal note, Ty married his beautiful wife Ronnie in 2005 and they were blessed with their twins in 2008. Ty loves to, in his words, ‘fix stuff’ and has a love for classic cars and motorbikes Travelling is an ongoing passion and Ty has been overseas many times, but now he is happiest when camping on a property outside Glen Innes whenever possible

ProjectHighlights

Seqwater Project

Beaudesert South West Pipeline Project

SafeAssure has been engaged by Seqwater as an Independent Safety Auditor (ISA) to provide a review and verification of the implementation and effectiveness of the Principal Contractors’ project safety management arrangements.

The South-West Pipeline Project and Water grid supply upgrade includes 27kms of bulk water pipeline from Logan to Beaudesert, connecting Beaudesert to the SEQ Water Grid, plus a new transfer station.

SafeAssure will continue to undertake quarterly audits on the Principal Contractor(s) until project completion.

Drone images of the Seqwater site

ProjectHighlights

Australian Unity - Herston Quarter Redevelopment

Australian Unity is undertaking the $1.1 billion Herston Quarter Redevelopment, in the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital precinct This will deliver quality world class health, education and biomedical facilities across half of the site. Supporting this is a range of uses including residential and student accommodation, commercial, child care, retail and food and beverage services. Works will be commencing soon on the Lady Norman Building (circa 1896) within the heritage precinct.

SafeAssure will be undertaking monthly site inspections and monthly safety forums throughout this project SafeAssure will consult on:

Work Health and Safety & Environmental Compliance Activities

Incident Management

Surgical Treatment & Rehabilitation Service (STARS)

Training and Mentoring

Consultation through - Toolbox & Staff Meetings, Generation of Safety Alerts, Legislation

Updates and Systems working groups

Subcontractor Management & Prequalification

ProjectHighlights

Brisbane Builders - Echo on the Bay

Brisbane Builders advancing on an elegant ensemble of architecturally crafted apartment homes along Moreton Bay front

SafeAssure has been engaged as the WHS Auditor on this project, on behalf of Brisbane Builders, and we look forward to seeing this magnificent project advance not a bad work view either!

SafeAssureintheCommunity

International Women’s Day - 8 March 2024

Gareth was lucky enough to attend the Springfield City Group International Women‘s Day Lunch and listen to guest speaker, Australian Businesswoman, Cathie Reid AM. Cathie was inducted into the Australian Businesswomen's Hall of Fame in 2015 and included in the Australian Financial Review Top 100 Women of Influence. In June 2019, she was honoured with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to healthcare delivery and philanthropy. A pharmacist by profession, Cathie is the co-founder of Australia's Epic Group, including Epic Pharmacy, the Icon Group and the Epic Good Foundation. What a privelidge to hear from this inspirational woman

New to our website is the SafeAssure Blog.

We will be providing weekly blog posts covering industry insights and latest news items of interest.

Check out our first blog ‘Creating buy-in to your workplace safety culture’ here SafeAssure Blog - Workplace Health and Safety News

Newsletter

JobsBoard

Join the SafeAssure team

Recruitment Consultant

Full Time (WFH)

This is a fantastic opportunity to join the SafeAssure team. We are seeking an experienced Recruitment Consultant to drive this division of our business and provide a dedicated service offering to our clients seeking quality HSEQ & Compliance professionals. If you have high proficiency in using Recruitment Software and social networks, along with excellent verbal and written communication skills we would love to hear from you today!

Key Responsibilities:

Delivering end-to-end Recruitment from advertising of jobs through to placement with client

Maintaining an up-to-date Database, taking ownership of talent pools

Offering client focused solutions in relation to the acquisition of HSEQ talent by sourcing candidates through your network, referrals, LinkedIn, direct recruiting, existing databases & online channels.

Building and maintaining relationships with potential job seekers, including lead generation

Attending client meetings to ensure overall coverage and understanding of recruitment requirements to enable identification of quality candidates.

Communicating/ promoting contract, secondment and full-time job opportunities. Responsible for the ongoing and sustainable growth of client accounts and candidate relationships

Identifying and taking advantage of new and existing business opportunities to grow the recruitment division, including the utilisation of commercial information to identify organisations that have current or future recruitment needs.

Provide advice on market conditions, CV and interview techniques and managing expectations both of client and candidate

At SafeAssure we are committed to delivering exceptional Workplace Health and Safety services. Our number one priority is ensuring our clients, partners and team members operate in a safe environment and have the assurance of knowing their best interests are always at the forefront This ‘SafeAs’ mentality is at the centre of everything we do

If this sounds like the job you have been waiting for, please apply today at recruitment@safeassurecomau

Or if you know anyone who might be suitable, we encourage you to forward this opportunity.

To learn more about SafeAssure please visit our website www.safeassure.com.au