SafeAsNewsletter
SafeAsNewsletter
Recently Awarded Projects
WHS Auditing on the RDX Lumina research and development centre on the Gold Coast for Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT
WHS Management System Development for Lindores Construction Services
WHS Management System Development and Training for Dimbulah Coffee
WHS Management System Development for Millbray
WHS Auditing on the 450 Queen Street, Brisbane project for InDeMa Properties
WHS Management System Development for The Point Properties
Acknowledgement
Important Dates
December 2024
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month wwwbowelcanceraustraliaorg/decembeard
January 2025
27th Australia Day Holiday
February 2025
REDFEB - Heart Reseach Month Ovarian Cancer Awarenes Month - Teal Ribbon Day 26/02/25
25th Clean Up Australia Day for businesses
March 2025
Melanoma March - skin cancer checks
1st Zero Discrimination Day
8th International Women’s Day 26th Purple Day (Epilepsy)
Director’sEndofYearWrapUp
Celebrating
I probably say this every year, but wow, another year has gone by, and what a year it was. Not only did we continue to experience significant growth, but we also celebrated our 10th anniversary in business It’s hard to believe that 10 years ago, I started this journey on my own with just two great clients. Today, we have a dedicated team of approximately 10 FTE’s, and we ’ re proudly serving over 100 clients
I can't thank everyone enough for their contribution from our current and past staff, our valued clients, and the wider network of supporters, referrers, and collaborators who’ve been with us over the last decade. But, this is only the beginning….
Looking ahead, we have a range of exciting opportunities in the New Year that will not only sustain but accelerate our growth. We’ll be expanding our team to maintain our high standard of service and value offering In January, we will welcome a new Systems Administrator to the organisation, and we’ll also begin recruiting 2-3 consultants in Q1. It’s an exciting time for SafeAssure and for our clients.
Our SafeAssure crew has continued to achieve amazing things, both personally and professionally. As many of you may have seen through our regular updates and in this newsletter, we celebrated milestones such as the arrival of our first #SafeAs baby (congratulations, Dean and Ellie!), and saw team members expand their qualifications, compete in sporting events, and much more. Recently, we also welcomed two new members to the organisation, whose diverse skills and experience will help us deliver exceptional service across multiple industries.
To our clients—thank you! We are fortunate to work with so many incredible clients who engage with us regularly, or call upon us when they need expert guidance. What remains consistent is that they know they can rely on us for the right advice, delivered promptly and at the right price
This year, we saw the entrepreneurial spirit alive and well with five new clients who launched their own construction companies to meet industry demand. Some of them are developer-builders, while others left large tier-one builders to chase their entrepreneurial dreams. It’s exciting to know that we are helping them achieve their goals while ensuring compliance and providing assurance across their operations. We continue to support the property and development market, as well as construction professionals, helping them understand their obligations and implement practices that ensure their projects remain safe and minimise regulatory risks.
Director’sEndofYearWrapUp
Celebrating
From a major projects perspective, SafeAssure has had a highly successful year We delivered the 2024 round of the Containers for Change audits, provided expert advice on a variety of matters, and investigated several fatality and disabling injury incidents Additionally, we are currently overseeing five large systems rewrites for our clients. We are seeing strong activity in the market, with diligent organisations continuing to engage external providers and experts There has been a notable increase in public, select, and direct tenders, signaling a robust and active market heading into 2025
Our recruitment and secondment services have been busier than ever We currently have three seconded resources with clients through the holiday season, with two more set to begin in the New Year We’ve also launched multiple recruitment programs, helping clients find the right people for their roles and, most importantly, ensuring they fit within their organisations. We anticipate further growth in this area in the coming year.
As we approach the holiday season, I want to wish all of our clients a safe and joyful period spent with loved ones For those celebrating Christmas for the first time without family members, our thoughts are with you. Part of our work involves investigating workplace incidents that have lifechanging impacts on families, and this time of year can bring up difficult emotions. It’s a time to reflect on the moments spent with loved ones and to look ahead to the year to come
A heartfelt thank you to my amazing team for upholding the high standards we ’ ve set and, most importantly, for delivering exceptional service to our clients. Your ability to adapt, remain agile, and respond to client needs at a moment’s notice is truly exceptional. No problem is too big or too small, and as a team, we always get it done Our clients and network often share their appreciation for the high standards we maintain, and I couldn’t be prouder of our team’s dedication. Here’s to an even bigger and better 2025!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! Stay safe and have fun
Gareth Davies Managing Director, SafeAssure Pty Ltd
SummerSafety
Some
key points (full details in video link below)
Mental Health - not everyone has family or friends to spend time with during this season. It is important to check in on the wellbeing and mental health of our friends, work colleagues and family
Heat Safety - In our sometimes blistering Aussie summers, be aware of the potential dangers of heat stress, dehydration and sunburn (Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide) and seek shelter in shade when you can
Summer Storms - these can sometimes be catastrophic, so preparation where possible is important at both work and home Please see the SafeAssure Site Shut Down and Storm Preparation Checklist below.
Survive the Drive - You want to ensure you arrive safely at your destination. Take breaks & share the driving where possible to manage fatigue, stick to the speed limits and plan your trip so that you don’t have to drive too far in one day. Also, watch out for wildlife on and around the roads.
SummerSafetyVideo
Watch the short and informative Summer Safety video from SafeAssure’s Managing Director & Founder, Gareth Davies, by clicking on the following link: https://vimeo.com/1039483786?share=copy#t=0
The complete Site Shut Down and Storm Preparation Checklist mentioned in the video can be found below in the newsletter or you can reach out to SafeAssure to request a copy at admin@safeassure.com.au
SiteShutDownand StormPreparationChecklist
ITEM
HOUSEKEEPING
Ensure loose materials and objects including signage are secured and cannot blow away (check all levels, including formwork deck and roof) This is particularly important where the structure is not enclosed
All stored materials (e g ply, roofing) have been tied down/strapped
For holiday shutdown period – ensure excess waste has been removed from site
SECURITY
Ensure boundary fencing, hoarding and barricading is secured with adequate bracing / counterweights and cannot be blown over
Ensure site office is locked and laptops, cameras etc. are taken home to prevent unauthorised access and theft.
Securely lock all site containers, site sheds and buildings
For holiday shutdown period – Site contacts sign is secured and legible, with contact phone numbers displayed
For holiday shutdown period - routine security patrols arranged where appropriate
For holiday shutdown period - arm security system, as appropriate Advise monitoring company of any changes to contact phone numbers during shutdown period
For holiday shutdown period – advise Client regarding shutdown period and emergency contact phone numbers.
PUBLIC SAFETY
For holiday shutdown period - pedestrians have safe passage around/adjacent to project
For holiday shutdown period – gantry lighting operational and sharp edges protected (e.g. pvc pipe).
For holiday shutdown period – traffic control measures would either be removed or covered where not required to be displayed over shutdown (e.g. ‘worker ahead’ signage).
EXCAVATION & CONFINED SPACES
For holiday shutdown period – ensure excavations have been filled, barricaded or covered (load bearing) to prevent persons falling into them.
For holiday shutdown period – confined spaces signed and locked if possible PLANT
Ensure tower crane warning lights operational
Ensure tower crane barricading secured/ lifting hooks and chains removed/ crane in slew mode and crane cabin locked
All plant parked in designated area with attachments lowered
All plant locked, with keys removed and isolated if possible.
STRUCTURE
Where required incomplete structures are braced to prevent collapse
Review all pre-cast panel braces and ensure they are secured and locked.
Ensure all block & brick walls are supported / braced and/or core filled
Finished/sensitive work protected from weather ingress
For holiday shutdown period – ensure penetrations in concrete slabs have penetration covers affixed.
SCAFFOLD
Ensure scaffold ties are in place and check scaffold couplers that link scaffold components together.
Check shade cloth / mesh and planks are securely fixed.
Check scaffold baseplates and ensure potential water runoff is diverted (so they cannot be undermined)
If scaffold is incomplete, ensure access is restricted (e.g. minimum prominent incomplete scaffold signs and hazard tape)
Ensure scaffold is free from excess materials and no loose materials.
HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS/MATERIALS
Dangerous goods and hazardous substances should be correctly disposed of or secured in a location that is unlikely to flood
Bunds empty and clean
Asbestos removal enclosures sealed and secured, following advice from licenced removalist
SERVICES & AMENITIES
For holiday shutdown period – where required gas, electrical and water supplies / mains have been isolated. This includes isolating temporary boards at the main switchboard, isolating water to site sheds and turning off all lighting and air conditioners inside sheds
For holiday shutdown period - all extension leads and power tools removed from site and secured
For holiday shutdown period – fridges emptied and cleaned
For holiday shutdown period – chemical toilets emptied and cleaned.
Erosion and sediment controls in place (and in a clean condition).
Stockpiles covered if required by site plan; covers sufficiently weighed down
For holiday shutdown period – road leaving site is clean
For holiday shutdown period – dust control arranged if required.
IF SITE BEING SHUT DUE TO WEATHER EVENT
Evacuate the site where it is identified that serious and damaging weather is coming, and it is safe for workers to travel from site to home
POST SITE SHUT DOWN OR WEATHER EVENT ITEM
POST SITE SHUTDOWN
Restore services to site
Complete site walk-thru / inspection, including:
•
• • No evidence of intruders
Scaffold inspection, including footings not undermined
Condition of erosion and sediment controls
Plant operators to conduct a thorough prestart check prior to equipment use.
POST STORM EVENT
Electricity – Prior to use ensure there has been a clearance to use live electrical sources by an electrician
Identify any materials likely to contain asbestos containing material and isolate
Check drinking water and hand wash facilities are available
Check that workers have access to working amenities
Assess what clean-up work needs to be done
Plan the clean-up to ensure additional risks / hazards are not introduced
Determine which tools & equipment will be needed to safely do the work
Check that the people required to operate the machinery have the right skill and competencies and ensure less skilled workers are supervised
Be aware of worker fatigue and toolbox all workers on the signs and symptoms of fatigue
Ensure all correct PPE for the task is being correctly used by all workers
Ensure all first aid stock and rooms are suitable for treating any injuries
Complete a scaffold inspection checking:
-there has not been soil erosion occur from underneath the sole boards that the scaffold base jacks are centred on the sole boards
Other important and helpful information regarding summer safety can be found at the following websites:
Ergon Energy - Storms and disasters preparation checklist https://www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/storms-and-disasters/storms-and-disasterpreparation-checklist
RACV - Safety tips on what to do in a storm this summer https://www.racv.com.au/royalauto/property/insurance/summer-storm-safety-tips.html
Have a Safe Summer https://www.cdc.gov.au/newsroom/news-and-articles/safe-summer
Summer Safety (Bushfires, Stingers, Beach Safety) https://wanderer.cmca.net.au/Article/Display/ad2b1dfb-3232-4621-96dffd9cdfe1eb2e#:~:text=1%20Slip%2C%20slop%2C%20slap%20Apply%20sunscreen%20lib erally%20and,7%20Swim%20between%20the%20flags%20on%20patrolled%20beaches.
ServiceSpotlight-WorkplaceInfographics
VALUE ADDED BENEFITS
SafeAssure is proud to offer a comprehensive suite of value-added services designed to elevate safety standards and operational excellence Drawing from our extensive experience and insights in the work health and safety industry, we have developed a range of valuable learning materials tailored to address the high-risk activities and common hazards prevalent in the construction sector These resources include detailed infographics on critical topics such as Manual Handling, Forklift Operation, Ladder Safety, Machine Guarding, and Managing Heat Stress, as well as Safety Alerts and Toolbox Topics
This initiative underscores our commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within the industry, ensuring that our clients are equipped with the tools and information necessary to maintain safe and compliant work environments.
Please reach out to SafeAssure if you are interested in obtaining any of these infographics for your workplace. Email admin@safeassure.com.au
Mentally healthy workplaces workshops 2025 - FREE For more information and to register for these workshops, please visit the website below:
https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/news-and-events/events/2024/mentally-healthy-workplacesworkshops-2025
ProjectHighlights
Gardner Vaughan Group (GVG)
We’re excited to be working with GVG across multiple projects, including Estilo on the Park in Chermside which is nearing completion This is a brand new collection of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom residences. Our consultants are providing a combination of inspections, audits, ongoing WHS guidance, and helping GVG continually improve their safety documentation processes. Keep an eye out for some amazing progress shots from these projects in the coming weeks!
The Lady Norman Building, completed in 1896, will be repurposed as part of future works within the Herston Quarter, Heritage Precinct redevelopment. Safe Assure is the nominated external Health & Safety Consultant for Australian Unity. We are providing ongoing monthly site inspections, Safety Forums and general compliance activities.
Our‘RetainedServices’modelisdesignedtogivebusinessesthesupporttheyneedwithoutthefulltimecommitmentWhetheryou'reanewlyestablishedorganisationoranindustryveteran, SafeAssurecanstepintoprovidebespokeWHSservices,ensuringyourprojectsarecompliant, efficient,andaboveall,safe.
Ifyourorganisationisinterestedinlearningmoreabouthowourretainedservicescouldbenefit yournextproject,don’thesitatetoreachout.LetSafeAssurebeyourtrustedpartnerinworkplace safety.
Welookforwardtocontinuingourpartnershipswiththesefantasticclientsandhelpingthem achievetheirsafetygoalswhilecontributingtotheirsuccessfulprojectoutcomes.
RECRUITMENTSERVICE
Securing the best talent for your business
SafeAssure also provides a Temporary Placement/ Secondment service, providing resources for short to medium-term contracts, or as required This service recognises the fact all businesses go through periods where resourcing needs to change. Aligning with a trusted partner can be a great solution when you don’t have in-house support or staff to meet these changing needs. We provide a range of selected and trusted professionals who can step into your business at short notice and provide the level of support required.
RecruitSure successfully sources candidates nationwide for permanent, contract and temporary opportunities. We take the hassle out of your hands and look after the sourcing and vetting of potential employees for you! Thanks to years spent working on the ground in the compliance industry, our team knows what characteristics to look for in a potential employee. Then we match those characteristics to our client’s company We utilise our extensive networks and leading recruitment platforms to source job-ready, industry-experienced candidates.
To learn more about SafeAssure please visit our website wwwsafeassurecomau
SafeAssureSocials
Congratulations Dean and Ellie on the safe arrival of your precious son, Louie. The best Christmas present ever!
Just two of our Consultants, Shane and Kristina, bumping into each other at the airport on their way to their next audits in Melbourne.
After 20 years of Rugby, 6 years of Indoor Volleyball, 20 years+ of Beach Volleyball & 3 years of Rowing, what sport does our Consultant, Shane enter with mates at the 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games? That’s right - Lawn Bowls! They had an awesome weekend and came 5th out of 18 teams which is an excellent effort
ChristmasParty
SafeAssure’s Christmas Party: A Gold Coast Getaway to Remember!
This year, the SafeAssure team wrapped up 2024 in spectacular style with an unforgettable Christmas Party on the stunning Gold Coast between the 6th to the 8th of December With laughter, adventure, and a touch of luxury, it was the perfect way to celebrate the teams hard work and successes together.
The festivities revved up with an adrenaline-fueled start at Game Over Gold Coast, where the team put their competitive spirit to the test on the go-kart track. From high-speed chases to some light-hearted spins (we won’t name names!), the karting session had everyone geared up for a weekend of fun
After the action, we checked into the stunning Langham Gold Coast, a five-star resort that welcomed us with beachfront bliss and unparalleled luxury Once settled, we gathered for dinner at BlowFish in Broadbeach, where the food was as fabulous as the company. But the night didn’t end there after dinner, we turned up the fun at The Star Casino, dancing and laughing well into the night
The rest of the weekend was a more laid-back affair, with the team soaking up the sun by the Langham’s beachfront pool, exploring the local shops, and simply enjoying the beauty of the Gold Coast On Saturday evening, we came together for another beautiful dinner at the iconic Mario’s on Broadbeach, where we toasted to another successful year
A huge thank-you goes to Gareth and Katie Davies for organising such a wonderful event Your effort, generosity, and thoughtfulness created memories we’ll cherish for years to come
Here’s to a bright 2025 and many more moments of celebration and connection ahead! ��✨
an important step in navigating the holiday season.
This short article “The 4 Big Emotions of the Christmas Season: How to Navigate Them.” (Joy and Excitement, Stress and Overwhelm, Loneliness, Anxiety) from The Centre for Effective Living, can be accessed here: https://www.96five.com/stories/christmas/2024/the-4-big-emotions-of-thechristmas-season-how-to-navigate-them/
Christmas is also a time to reflect on the year that’s been – the joys, the sorrows and everything in between; but the holiday season can also exacerbate symptoms of stress, grief and depression.
Lifeline have released a Holiday Guide with practical tips, tools and resources to help you look after yourself and your loved ones throughout this season, including:
Why the holiday season can be so hard
Managing financial stress
Managing loneliness
Managing overall wellbeing
How to feel connected
Supporting loved ones
Supporting children and young people
The guide includes articles, techniques, quizzes, testimonials and resources that individuals can complete at their own pace. https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/general/mental-wellness-during-theholiday-season
Lifeline’s 24/7 phone service , text and chat channels will remain fully operational during the holiday period. If you or anyone you know needs help – call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For more information , visit www.lifeline.org.au
MerryChristmas
Christmas Closure Dates
SafeAssure will be closed from 12pm Friday 20th December 2024 and will reopen for business on Monday 6th January 2025.