Workplace health promotion can take various forms – one of those is the incorporation of health and wellbeing programs and interventions in the organisation’s calendar. Check out “10 tips to promote workplace health and wellbeing events” here https://www.workhealthyaustralia.com.au/10-tips-to-promote-healthand-wellbeing-events/
Acknowledgement
March 2025
1 PCBUs must prepare and implement a Prevention Plan to manage identified risks to the health and safety of workers, or others, from sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment at work. World’s Greatest Shave - Leukaemia Foundation wwwworldsgreatestshavecom/ 17-23 Harmony Week
https://wwwharmonygovau/ 20th - International Day of Happiness
April 2025
Acceptance Month
Change your smoke alarm battery
World Health Day
World Day for Safety and Health at Work
www.heartfoundation.org.au/heart-week 27-3 June National Reconciliation Week
SafeAssure acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country across Australia We pay our respect to Elders past and present and to the continuation of the custodial , cultural and educational practices of Australia’s First People.
DirectorsMessage
As we move through the early months of 2025, it’s safe to say that this year has already brought its fair share of challenges and opportunities The start of the year has been marked by extreme weather events, new legislation, and continued growth for SafeAssure as we expand our team to meet the evolving needs of our clients
A Turbulent Start to the Year
Queensland, and more recently Brisbane, has faced significant disruptions due to severe weather conditions. The recent cyclone that impacted our region caused widespread damage, adding to the already challenging circumstances created by earlier cyclones in North Queensland For many businesses, these events have served as stark reminders of the importance of preparedness and resilience.
As safety and compliance professionals, we have been working closely with businesses to ensure they have the necessary risk management strategies in place, particularly for those operating in high-risk industries such as construction, logistics, and property development. Natural disasters bring about workplace safety risks that require swift action, from assessing structural integrity and environmental hazards to ensuring business continuity plans are robust and effective
Growth and New Faces at SafeAssure
Amidst these challenges, we are pleased to share that SafeAssure has continued to grow. We have welcomed new consultants and administration team members, strengthening our capability to support businesses nationally Expanding our team ensures we can provide even greater expertise, agility, and responsiveness to our clients.
With every new team member comes fresh perspectives and skills, reinforcing our commitment to delivering pragmatic, tailored safety, compliance, and risk solutions Our focus remains on maintaining strong relationships with our clients while upholding the values that define SafeAssure –Family First, Value in Every Interaction, Grounded in Principles, Pragmatic Solutions, and Relationship-Driven service
New Legislative Changes: Sexual Harassment Assessments and Prevention Plans
Beyond the immediate impacts of extreme weather, businesses have also had to navigate regulatory changes that shape workplace compliance obligations. One of the most significant recent legislative developments in Queensland is the introduction of Work Health and Safety (Sexual Harassment) Amendment Regulation 2024.
DirectorsMessage
Under these new laws, organisations must take proactive steps to identify and mitigate risks related to workplace sexual harassment This shift places a greater emphasis on prevention rather than reaction, aligning with the broader national push for safer and more inclusive workplaces. SafeAssure has already been working with businesses to help them understand their obligations, conduct workplace risk assessments, and develop tailored prevention strategies.
For many businesses, these changes require not only updated policies and training but also a shift in workplace culture. Leadership commitment and employee engagement will be key factors in ensuring compliance and fostering safe and respectful work environments If you haven’t yet reviewed your organisation’s approach to sexual harassment prevention, now is the time to do so. Our team is ready to assist in providing guidance and practical solutions to meet these new requirements.
Looking Ahead
While the year has started at a hectic pace, we remain focused on our mission: protecting businesses through expert advice and services in audit, risk, compliance, and culture. We are committed to helping our clients navigate the complex landscape of regulatory change, environmental challenges, and workplace safety requirements
As we move forward, we encourage all businesses to take a proactive approach to risk management Whether it’s ensuring disaster preparedness, adapting to new legislation, or fostering safe and inclusive workplaces, the steps you take today will define your resilience in the future
On behalf of the SafeAssure team, I want to thank our clients, partners, and employees for their ongoing trust and commitment We look forward to another year of growth, collaboration, and innovation in workplace safety and compliance.
Stay safe and let’s continue to make a difference together.
Gareth Davies, Managing Director
Auditing in Japan
Recently, I had the privilege of traveling to Japan to conduct safety and quality audits. Our client, while confidential - specializes in land development, transforming sites into industrial buildings for various tenants Their operations span from site acquisition to engaging general contractors for construction and eventually managing the facilities for their customers
Japan differs from Australia in many ways, including language, climate (ranging from 37-40°C heat to sub-zero temperatures), and significantly more advanced public transport However, for those in construction, the most notable difference is the methodology Due to the frequent occurrence of earthquakes and typhoons, Japan incorporates advanced seismic engineering into vertical commercial construction The structural approach often involves steel columns and beams forming a “Meccano”-like assembly of bolted and welded connections. Some designs feature concrete-filled steel columns (CFP), while others rely on a self-supporting steel frame integrated with concrete slabs Unlike Australia, where formwork is common, Japan typically uses a ‘Bondek’-style steel deck to construct reinforced concrete floors
Why is this so fascinating? Since completing my health and safety degree, I’ve had the opportunity to work across various industries and projects At SafeAssure, we support clients in construction, mining, agriculture, education, office and clerical work, government, gas and water, and more. E h li t d i d t t h t l Japan, despite its differences, follows the same principle Its construction methodology introduces unique hazards, requiring tailored risk management approaches For instance, due to the steel column and beam framework, workers use full-time harnesses, belts, and safety rope connections. Fall arrest systems are a standard practice, compliant with local legislation not wrong, just a different level of risk tolerance
Every aspect of construction is meticulously planned and documented, including detailed work plans, methodologies, engineering designs, illustrated job steps, daily pre-start meetings, team stretching exercises, and routine safety reminders for harness use and rigging procedures
When researching Japanese culture, common themes emerge harmony, mutual respect, and group consensus
An article in Japan Today lists the top 10 characteristics of Japanese people:
I couldn’t agree more. The teams I worked with were not only hardworking but also polite, considerate, and united in their pursuit of project goals Their innovative approaches to workplace safety such as cooling shirts, air-conditioned cool-down rooms, and distributing water, ice blocks, and lollies to manage heat stress were impressive. Their kindness extended beyond work, with workers using their own money to buy guests warm coffee and tea from vending machines after site walks in freezing temperatures small but meaningful gestures that did not go unnoticed.
My time in Japan has been an incredible learning experience embracing a new culture, understanding different construction methodologies, and meeting remarkable people While I have undoubtedly contributed valuable insights during my work there, I have also gained a wealth of knowledge from their processes and dedication to construction excellence
Suicide is never an easy or particularly comfortable topic to discuss, but it is an extremely important topic to discuss and is everyone ’ s business. MATES is a charity established in 2008 to reduce the high level of suicide among Australian construction workers. According to the Mates in Construction website:
To find out more about suicide and mental health issues within the construction, mining and energy sectors, the research being undertaken and what support and resources are available, please visit the MATES website https://mates.org.au/ or phone 1300 642 111.
Mentally Healthy Workplaces Workshops 2025 REGISTER NOW FOR THESE FREE WORKSHOPS
Designed for managers and supervisors, you’ll be equipped with foundational skills to identify, assess and manage risks to psychological health and safety within your team. These workshops align with the Mentally healthy workplaces toolkit
LegislationUpdates
Work Health and Safety (Amenities for Construction Work) Amendment Regulation 2024
From 1 January 2025, principal contractors are required to ensure designated female toilets and improved facilities and amenities for certain construction projects. For full details and requirements, please visit:
Sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment
Amendment to the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011
As of 1 March 2025, PCBUs must prepare and implement a Prevention Plan to manage identified risks to the health and safety of workers, or others, from sexual harassment and sex or gender-based harassment at work The obligation to prepare a Prevention Plan applies where a risk of sexual harassment has been identified, and control measures are needed to eliminate or minimise the risk.
Full details can be found on the Qld WorkSafe website:
Our team has completed a thorough assessment of the legislative changes and the specific requirements for Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs)
To assist with compliance with the amendments, we have developed a Sexual Harassment, Sex or Gender Harassment Prevention Checklist This checklist provides a structured approach to reviewing your current policies and ensuring the necessary steps have been taken to meet the new regulatory obligations
A key requirement under the amendments is the development of a Prevention Plan, which outlines the identified risks, control measures, consultation process, and reporting procedures. This is a mandatory obligation where a risk of sexual harassment, sex, or gender-based harassment is present in the workplace
The SafeAssure checklist can help to determine if steps have been taken to comply with Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 for the proactive management of the risk of sexual harassment, sex, or gender harassment at their workplaces.
If your organisation would like a copy of the checklist that we have developed, please click here
Where there is a risk of sexual harassment, sex or gender harassment, a written Prevention Plan must be developed by the PCBU / company. A written Prevention Plan must:
State each identified risk.
Identify control measures (implemented or to be implemented) to manage each identified risk. Identify the matters considered in determining the control measures (including those in the WHS Reg).
Describe the consultation undertaken in line with the WHS Act Be set out in a way that is readily accessible and understandable to workers. Set out the procedure for dealing with reports of unsafe conduct.
SafeAssure can also assist with your WHS system review and the development of your Prevention Plan Please contact your SafeAssure consultant to discuss your needs or email admin@safeassure.com.au.
WelcometoourNewClients
Development of Auditing Framework and WHSMS Mapping
WHS Management System Development
Project WHS Auditing
WHS Management System Upgrade
Project WHS Documentation Development
WHSMS Development and Retained WHS Services
Project WHS Auditing
Project WHS Auditing
Gap Analysis and Upgrade of WHSMS
Development of Integrated Management System
WHSMS Development and Site Auditing
Project WHS Auditing
IndustryNews
Fire Ants - Keeping up to date and informed
For the most up to date information on Fire Ants, please refer to the following websites. Information is updated as needed.
Reporting Fire Ants https://www.fireants.org.au/look/reporting
Review of the engineered stone ban – public consultation now open
Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on the operation of the engineered stone ban which came into effect on 1 July 2024 to help protect workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica
As part of the consultation, they would like to hear how the engineered stone ban is working in practice They are also gathering insights about access to information and resources related to the ban, ideas for future work health and safety (WHS) research related to silica and how the ban could be improved Anyone with an interest in the operation of the ban is encouraged to share their thoughts. They are particularly interested to hear from employers and workers who have had direct experience with the ban
Public consultation is now open until 11.59 pm (AEDT) on Monday 31 March 2025. Please visit Safe Work Australia’s Consultation Hub (https://consultswagovau/consultation-on-the-engineered-stoneban) to have your say. You can respond through the online questionnaire, upload a submission, or both
The consultation process will inform Safe Work Australia’s review of the engineered stone ban that will be provided to WHS ministers for their consideration March 2025
ProjectHighlights
Midwater Project: SafeAssure are assisting the Project team with WHS compliance and implementation for their 40 storey project. On completion, the tower will house a roof top atrium bar, pool deck and a whopping 7-level automated, self-parking basement carpark! The project presents some unique challenges in managing risk, but SafeAssure will ensure the project is delivered safely.
SafeAssure are conducting on-site external audits for See Civil Burpengary Projects See Group are quickly presenting as a major player in the civil industry, with SafeAssure playing an external audit resource for the North Brisbane team We look forward to our continued support for the team
SafeAssure are undertaking external audits for the Capicon team who are the main builder for the National Storage network in Queensland. Having completed 20+ audits to date, with several more in the pipeline, we always look forward to taking a call from the Capicon team to support them in any way possible
IntroducingournewTeamMembers
We are very happy to introduce and welcome our latest SafeAssure team members, Rachael, Adam and Hideyaki.
Adam Thomas - WHS Consultant
Adam is a highly experienced construction worker with over 20 years in the industry He specialises in team management, project coordination, WHS, high risk work and cranes & rigging. A skilled communicator with a passion for personal development, Adam is always looking to develop new skills and push himself to grow and achieve a high level of success
Rachael Galloway - Recruitment Consultant
Rachael is a HR Specialist who has vast experience gained in over 20 years working across a broad range of industries. Highly skilled in recruitment, consulting, staff management and training, Rachael is SafeAssure’s go to person for all of your staffing, contract and secondment needs
Hideyaki Kadoguchi - Executive Assistant
Hideyaki joins the team from over the seas. Based in The Philippines, Hideyaki brings extensive experience to our Admin team He specialises in admin support, customer service and social media management. We welcome his tech savvy skills as well! Hideyaki will be working closely with Managing Director, Gareth Davies
ServiceSpotlight-OnlineTraining
SafeAssure offer a range of training courses in Health and Safety, Chain of Responsibility and Workplace Awareness. Our Industry standard training programs and coaching services are suitable for a diverse range of professionals
In today’s world, WHS affects everyone That is why it’s crucial to have a thorough understanding of what is required, not only in workplaces but the responsibility of individuals when it comes to WHS
SafeAssure has created WHS training and eLearning management opportunities which are accessible via online learning. Being able to access training online when and where it suits, opens up learning opportunities for everyone Even more so when that learning relates to WHS requirements
Our team at SafeAssure are WHS subject matter experts. We work closely with small and large-scale businesses to meet legislated WHS obligations This includes working closely with you to ensure that the most up-to-date training material is supplied. We ensure that your WHS eLearning experience is not only interesting and informative but that the training is relevant and at the forefront of today’s WHS legislation requirements.
Our programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of your organisation From single bespoke courses to business-wide learning programs.
Our current courses include:
Browse our online training courses catalogue today, and get in touch with SafeAssure to start your WHS training journey with a click of a button! https://safeassure.mykademy.com/
