Finalists gear up for Safe Work Australia awards

Safe Work Australia has announced the 37 finalists that will compete in the 2014 Safe Work Australia Awards later this year, in news that might just inspire your business to take greater control of its Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) obligations.

The finalists have each been drawn from Safe Work Awards conducted in their state or territory, and will now be gearing up for the national ceremony set to take place on Monday April 28.

Awards are up for grabs in four separate categories – Best Workplace Health and Safety Management System, Best Solution to an Identified Workplace Health and Safety Issue, Best Workplace Health and Safety Practice/s in a Small Business, and Best Individual Contribution to Workplace Health and Safety.

Safe Work Australia Chair Ann Sherry officially announced the finalists last month, and commended each for showing an “inspiring” commitment to innovation in the field of work health and safety.

“The best outcomes are achieved when everyone in the workplace actively participates in making the workplace safe. These finalists prove that you can make a difference to your workplaces’ health and safety. Congratulations,” said Ms Sherry.

Although undoubtedly a positive initiative, the Safe Work Australia Awards also carry a very serious message. Tragically, 228 workers died in 2011-12 from injuries incurred while on the job, and this is still an issue in dire need of attention from Australian employers.

Regardless of the nature of your workplace, it’s vital that you take your OHS obligations seriously, and commit to providing employees with the information they need to stay safe on the job.

HR management software can assist in this department, by allowing your business to keep a streamlined and accurate record of workplace risks, past incidents and mitigation strategies.

By utilising HRMS, not only will you be doing your part to keep employees safe, but you’ll also be ensuring that you are keeping up with your legal obligations and maintaining accurate records that could prove essential if an incident does occur further down the road.

Tackle your OHS commitments by the horns today and you never know, you might find yourself on list of nominees for the 2015 Safe Work Australia Awards!