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WORKPL CE
DECEMBER 2020
issues
seasonal worker safety
Keeping fruit pickers COVID Safe
be asbestos aware
Dangers in floor sheeting and tiles
safety, wellbeing
Men’s health, working safely
in heat and UV, and more
Contents
Publisher
Published three times a year by
WorkSafe Tasmania.
Online
To see current and past editions,
our warnings about telefraud and
NEWS + EVENTS graphic images, and to subscribe,
go to worksafe.tas.gov.au then
choose the ‘Resources’ button
8 WorkSafe Tasmania Month hits new highs then the ‘Workplace Issues
magazine’ link.
12 Tasmania adopts national traffic
management guide Phone:
1300 366 322
14 Spotlight on Public Admin and Mining
industries Email:
wstinfo@justice.tas.gov.au
16 Update: Advisory Service
18 Prosecutions Disclaimer
WorkSafe Tasmania and the
19 About Worker Assist: How it can help you Crown in the right of the State
of Tasmania, its employees and
21 National report: COVID workers comp claims
COVER agents disclaim liability for the
accuracy or comprehensiveness of
STORY
safety
the information, data and advice
provided in Workplace Issues; and
will not be responsible for any
4 Beware of COVID complacency Keeping fruit pickers COVID Safe loss, however arising and whether
Burlington Berries explains its COVID Safe measures for or not due to negligence, arising
6 Berry farm’s COVID Safe efforts bear fruit from reliance on, or action taken
protecting its workers; and Hillwood Berries is the backdrop on the basis of any information,
10 Working Safely in the heat for our new Safe Farming Tasmania COVID Safe video. data or advice provided in
Workplace Issues.
11 Working safely in the sun
Any information, data and advice
11 Other summer safety resources is provided solely on the basis that
readers will be responsible for
13 Warning: Asbestos in flooring materials
making their own assessment and
23 Helping fruit pickers stay COVID Safe verification of such information,
data and advice before any
reliance is placed upon it.
wellbeing Views expressed in Workplace
Issues are those of the individual
contributors or the editorial
17 Supporting mens health committee and are intended to
stimulate discussion. They do not
necessarily reflect the policy of
regulars page
the Government or WorkSafe
Tasmania.
3
20
From the Minister
Who can claim for workers compensation?
13 ISSN 1444-6316 (Print)
ISSN 2204-5597 (Online)
22 Business Tasmania: Here to help Be asbestos aware Throughout, the acronyms
23 Everybody’s Talking Know the risks of vinyl floor sheeting and tiles. ‘WHS’ stands for work health
and safety and ‘PCBU’ stands for
person conducting a business or
undertaking.
Cover photo: Hillwood Berries, courtesy Alex Beem Creative Media
2 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020
ELISE ARCHER MP
MINISTER FOR BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION
Keep on Top of COVID Campaign
Now, it is as important as ever that we do I encourage you to stay up-to-date with
not become complacent. We must maintain the latest COVID-19 warnings and advice
our COVID-Safe behaviours and attitudes, for Tasmania at coronavirus.tas.gov.au.
and remember the shared responsibility we
Finally, it gives me great pleasure to
all have to keep our community and our
announce WorkSafe Tasmania’s new
loved ones safe.
Executive Director, Robyn Pearce.
The key to the Keep on Top of COVID
Robyn has led WorkSafe Tasmania as
campaign is the word ‘keep’. We all need to
Acting Chief Executive Officer since
keep doing the right things to keep COVID-
March 2020, stepping up from her role as
19 away, so we can keep enjoying the things
Director Industry Safety (which she has
we like to do.
held since June 2018).
This campaign reminds us to keep washing
This coincided with the onset of the
our hands, keep social distancing and get
COVID-19 pandemic, which brought
COVID-19 tested if we experience any
about an unprecedented rise in workload
cold or flu symptoms. The campaign has
throughout WorkSafe Tasmania. Robyn
communicated the reasons behind acting
led the WorkSafe team throughout this
and thinking in a COVID-Safe way so we
challenging period, collaborating with the
can keep socialising with our friends, keep
State Controller, multiple Government
visiting our family and keep our business
agencies, industry and unions to contribute
open.
to the Tasmanian Government’s COVID-
What does this mean for you and your Safe Workplaces Framework and ongoing
business practices, your workers and your recovery work. This was in addition to the
customers? important work WorkSafe does day to
day in the areas of workers compensation,
As our State continues to move forward It means continuing to communicate to
asbestos compensation, licensing and more.
safely and responsibly with the lifting of your workers, suppliers and customers the
certain restrictions and the opening of COVID-Safe control measures you have in I wish to personally thank Robyn and her
our State borders, we must continue to be place. This is especially important for any entire team for their incredible efforts to
vigilant and keep COVID-19 safety at the measures that go beyond the usual hygiene date during COVID-19, and I wish them all
forefront of our minds. and physical distancing, and are unique to the best as they work to make Tasmanian
your particular workplace requirements. workplaces safer and healthier into the
The Tasmanian Government’s ‘Keep on
future.
Top of COVID’ campaign recognises It also means addressing any COVID-
that we have been able to lift many 19 complacency that may have crept in, As always, please look after each other,
COVID-19 related restrictions because the whether that might be with your staff or stay safe and take care.
overwhelming majority of Tasmanians did your customers. The Advisory Service’s new
the right thing during the height of the column in this edition addresses ways to do
pandemic. this, and communication is the key.
As individuals and a community, we We do not want to undo the hard work
practised good hygiene and maintained Tasmanians have put in over the past
physical distancing, followed the rules and nine months. Keep on Top of COVID has
guidelines for gatherings and activities, and empowered Tasmanians to feel confident
had a test if we felt unwell with COVID-19 to continue with their lives and continue to
symptoms. embrace and apply COVID-Safe behaviours.
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 3
safety
Beware of COVID complacency
For most Tasmanians, life has Your COVID Safe plans remain important
become easier and returned WHAT THIS MEANS IN PRACTICE guidance for you and your workers. They
closer to normal through the should be ‘living documents’ that you
Until we have a vaccine, the best way to review on a regular basis, and especially
staged easing of COVID-19
remain safe is to continue following and whenever Public Health directions change.
restrictions.
complying with Public Health guidelines Review your plan’s control measures
Lifting restrictions has been made possible and instructions on health, hygiene, to make sure they continue to do what
because the overwhelming majority of physical distancing and gatherings. they are supposed to do: keep you, your
Tasmanians did and continue to do the workers and your customers safe.
For all of us, this means continuing to:
right things: practising good hygiene and
• wash your hands with soap and water To help inform your review, go back to
maintaining physical distancing, following
for 20 seconds, and use hand sanitiser our industry resources with fresh eyes.
the advised restrictions on gatherings
when necessary Are there other actions or measures that
and activities, and getting tested if feeling
you should incorporate now? Are those
unwell with COVID symptoms. • maintain 1.5 metres between yourself
you already have in place still working?
and others where possible: for
While this is good news, it is very Find all our industry guidelines (developed
example, at work, when lining up at the
important that we all don’t fall into the in consultation with Tasmanian industry
supermarket, when exercising
trap of complacency, and we maintain stakeholders and representatives) at our
• getting tested if you have any COVID-19 COVID-19 web pages. Go to
these good behaviours, especially with our
symptoms and staying home while you worksafe.tas.gov.au/coronavirus and search
borders reopening to interstate travellers.
await the results. for ‘guidelines’.
We need to remain vigilant — as
For workplaces, this means: New information sheets and templates
individuals and as workplaces.
• continue to promote good hygiene, have also been developed, further
distancing and testing to your workers: explaining density, distancing and mixing
A FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY with posters, staff newsletters or requirements — and how to comply with
emails, and team meetings. Be up-front them. There are documents specifically
We have seen other states and countries about complacency and discuss the aimed at gyms and event organisers,
suffer second waves, and tighter rounds of importance of remaining COVID Safe to help them ensure they meet all
restrictions. • continue to communicate the the COVID Safe requirements. Go to
COVID Safe control measures that worksafe.tas.gov.au/coronavirus and search
Switching restrictions off and on again
are particular to your workplace for ‘framework’.
would come at a significant cost: to our
personal freedoms, our livelihoods, our operations, activities and environment.
mental health and wellbeing, and our local
and state economies. REVIEW YOUR PLANS, STAY UP
TO DATE
So it is very important that we all
keep doing what is needed to prevent Even as we enjoy ‘the new normal’,
coronavirus taking hold again in our control measures are still required (and
community. will be enforced by WorkSafe Tasmania’s
Inspectorate).
4 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020
COVID-safe behaviours
for the workplace
Follow this advice to protect yourself and others.
Wash your hands frequently for
at least 20 seconds. Use alcohol-
based hand sanitiser if hand
washing is not available.
Cover coughs and sneezes with
a tissue or the inside of your
elbow. Dispose of used tissues
immediately using a rubbish bin.
Stay 1.5 metres away from other
people.
Clean and disinfect frequently
touched surfaces, equipment
and shared spaces.
Stay home if you have cold
or flu-like symptoms.
Get tested for COVID-19.
Keep up to date.
www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au
Berry farm’s COVID Safe
SAFETY
efforts bear fruit
Family-owned berry farm Burlington Berries is in the midst of its However, the company was also unafraid to act early, especially
busiest time of year: harvesting and packing its juicy, high-quality in the early days of the pandemic when specific industry or
strawberries and raspberries ready for customers all around government consensus was not yet available.
Australia.
The team worked together to develop and communicate its
This year, the company has had an extra layer of preparedness new policies: ‘This remains a key part of maintaining buy-in from
for the harvesting season: making sure its operations and long- the wider team,’ explained Laurie. ‘Communication has been
time and seasonal workers are COVID Safe. important, ensuring our workers are aware of what and why
we’re doing things.’
‘Our approach at Burlington has been driven by an acute
awareness of our responsibility to the local community, our long- The berry business is ‘such a labour intensive business’, so the
term workforce and the significant number of seasonal workers potential impact of a COVID case would have ‘wide-ranging
for whom we have a duty of care,’ said General Manager of impacts’, said Laurie.
Burlington Berries, Laurie Adams.
‘Thankfully with the current situation, theses impacts remain
Laurie and his team started planning when the first cases and potential, not actual. But our approach was to look at the
lockdown hit Tasmania earlier in 2020. situation in terms of different risk levels: low, medium or high.
Each of our areas had increasing levels of controls as the risk
‘This was the last few months of our 2019–20 season, so we level in Tasmania changed,’ explained Laurie. ‘As cases arrived
had a decent number of workers on site. Where it was possible, or spread in the state, we had our responses planned and
we moved people to working from home or working in isolation ready to implement; and the team was aware of these levels,
immediately, and as the first lockdown evolved we developed which mitigated any shock or frustration when or if we had to
what would become our integrated COVID policies,’ explained implement them.’
Laurie.
A crucial characteristic of Burlington’s response was adaptability:
remaining open to the rapid pace of change. ‘Throughout March
and June, our senior managers held short daily meetings —
outdoors, standing two metres apart — to adapt and respond
quickly. We had to talk often and act quickly,’ said Laurie.
‘As we moved to a more stable position in Tasmania in June,
we started to formally draft a plan for the winter and our next
season.’
The senior management team discussed (and still does) COVID at
each weekly meeting, and the manager of each of the company’s
different areas (for example, harvest, welfare, and the packhouse)
is expected to lead their team. ‘The overall policy and approach
was pulled together by Maddie Fish, our Human Resources
Officer, in consultation with the area managers.’
Consultation was an important part of Burlington Berries’
COVID preparations. ‘We consulted heavily with our regional
grower group, which includes other berry farms, and developed
a lot of policies together with them. Likewise we were able to
draw on the various government websites for guidance, including
WorkSafe Tasmania’s.
‘And Burlington is fortunate to have a sister company in the UK,
so we could learn from their experiences over the northern
summer.’
6 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020
So what control measures has Burlington Berries introduced to Burlington Berries also recognises the impact the pandemic has
make its workers and the broader community COVID Safe? had on the welfare of its workers, when staff were asked to
isolate, work from home or adjust to new practices. ‘And often
‘We’ve put as many practical controls in place as we can, such our seasonal workers are far from home, living in farm-provided
as a host of office and field-based hygiene facilities, digital sign- accommodation, and at a high risk from the physical and mental
in procedures, Perspex screening, and workstation spacing and health issues posed by COVID-19.
workforce separation,’ said Laurie. ‘We’ve set up the various
accommodation facilities to allow for quarantine and workforce ‘Without doubt COVID-19 has posed a host of challenges and
isolation.’ brought significant working changes,’ said Laurie. ‘The team has
had to rise to the situation, but has developed a range of skills
Consideration of staffing levels is a very important matter for and experience that will make them and Burlington a more
Burlington Berries, especially as it moves back into peak season resilient business going forward.’
when there will be over 300 people on site. ‘Due to the fact
that we employ staff in our own accommodation as well as
the community, we’ve had to develop systems to group the
workforce not just by operation but also by living location and
transport to site.
‘It’s been challenging to be so involved in people’s lives, but the
priority is keeping the team, community and business safe.’
Scenario planning has also been important: ‘We keep running
contingencies and scenarios to see how our systems will hold
up and adjust as needed. Likewise as the government advice and
situation in Australia changes, we need to react and evolve.’
Obviously this level of preparedness comes at a cost. ‘Inevitably
there has been investment in hygiene facilities, workstation and
workforce separation. Probably the biggest investment has been
in scenario planning and contingency preparations, stress-testing
ideas and assumptions as early as possible. And contingencies,
such as securing extra accommodation and vehicles, comes at a
cost.’
All photos courtesy Burlington Berries
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 7
0
WorkSafe Tasmania Month hits new highs
Over the years, WorkSafe Month has successfully helped ‘The feedback we’ve received from presenters and participants
workers, managers and employers learn how to manage has been exceptional, and we now have these wonderful
workplace hazards, comply with the laws, understand their rights resources for everyone to use in the future.
and responsibilities, manage positive return to work outcomes,
and become healthier too. ‘Ongoing collaboration with stakeholders has been the key to the
success of this project, and we will continue to do this to ensure
This year was no exception! a safer and healthier Tasmania through WorkSafe Month.’
Respecting COVID-19 restrictions and safety measures, WorkSafe Month in Tasmania supports Safe Work Australia’s
WorkSafe Tasmania, on behalf of the WorkCover Tasmania National Safe Work Month.
Board, provided an energised online program.
‘WorkSafe Month is always evolving to meet the information
needs and wants of employers and workers. In these
unprecedented times, we wanted to focus on helping everyone 2021 and beyond
navigate through this difficult and unpredictable period,’ said We recognise how important it is to engage
Senior Project Manager Stephanie Mirowski (below), who has
been involved with the Month since 2008.
with our stakeholders and the community
all year round, not just in WorkSafe Month,
Focusing on the theme ‘Safe Bodies, Safe Minds’, WorkSafe so next year we will roll out our 2021–2023
Month saw expert speakers, business leaders and health and WorkSafe Engagement Program.
safety professionals deliver webinars on a topics covering WHS,
wellbeing, mental health, injury management and return to work. The Program will deliver education and
OzHelp (a program of Lifeline Tasmania) delivered free and engagement activities throughout the year,
subsidised online training covering suicide prevention, mental to ensure we’re providing you with ongoing
health first aid, managing mental health and wellbeing in the opportunities to learn more about WHS,
workplace, and supporting others in the workplace. wellbeing and return to work.
Going completely online allowed individuals and groups, To stay up to date, subscribe to our mailing list
no matter where they are based, a greater opportunity to
participate in our 37 webinars.
at worksafe.tas.gov.au/subscriptions.
There were over 4,000
registrations from people not
just in Tasmania, but from
all over the world. A further
196 people participated in
OzHelp’s training.
‘It was great to see how
successful this year has been
with everyone embracing
the change to an entirely
virtual WorkSafe Month,’ said
Stephanie.
WorkSafe Tasmania’s Senior Project Manager, Stephanie Mirowski
news
+
events
WorkSafe would like to
The month in numbers thank our webinar presenters
37 webinars attracted over for their excellent presentations
4,000 registrations from all
over the world, with 2,270 Robert Aurbach: Uncommon Approach
attending. Klaus Baur: Heart2Heart Foundation
David Bentley: Just Leadership
Kristen Carroll: Lifeline Tasmania Inc
Natasha Cloak: SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTy
196 people participated in
Scott Coleman: Preventure Pty Ltd
OzHelp’s training.
Rhys Cooper: Longitude6
Maurice Dawe: Drug Education Network
Anne-Marie Dean: Tasmanian Association of Vocational
Rehabilitation Providers
More than 50 presenters from Professor David Dunstan: Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
over 40 local, national and Lorna Farquhar: Tas Ergonomic Collaborative
international organisations. Ruth Feeger: Tasmanian Association of Vocational Rehabilitation
Providers
Yohana Franklin Everymind
Liz Freeman: Tas Ergonomic Collaborative
27,636 viewed Ella French: Cancer Council
27,636 worksafemonthtas.com.au Wendy French: Talking about...Training
with 6,155 unique visitors. Jennie Gorringe: Equal Opportunity Tasmania
Associate Professor Genevieve Healy: University of
Queensland
LinkedIn gained approximately Ros Herbert: Council on the Ageing (COTA Tasmania)
258 followers and 5.844 Klaus Hofer: Communications and Training International
unique users engaged with our Dr Kieran Holm: Positive Solutions
Facebook page. Ross Iles: Monash University
Andrea Ireland: Tas Ergonomic Collaborative
Associate Professor Nektarios Karanikas: Queensland
University of Technology
Angelina Lee: PhysioForward
Alicia Leis: WLF Accounting and Advisory
Lyn McGaurr: Council on the Ageing (COTA Tasmania)
Watch the webinars again Alison Merridew: WLF Accounting and Advisory
Garry Mills: Garry Mills Peak Performance
If you want to watch the webinars again, share Jessica Munday: Unions Tasmania
them with your co-workers, or if you didn’t Associate Professor Kimberley Norris: University of Tasmania
get the chance to see them when they we Justin Ockerby: IPAR Rehabilitation
re live, catch up with them on our Youtube Brad Parker: WorkSafe Tasmania
channel. Go to youtube.com/WorkSafeTas. Daniella Polita: Tas Ergonomic Collaborative
Mark Reggers: 3M
Dave Reynolds: Drug Education Network
Sarah Sealy: HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
Linda Sheahan: Beyond Blue
Hazel Smirlis: Compliance Lab
Vicki Tabor: WorkSafe Tasmania
Luke Taylor: HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
Roz Taylor: Respect at Work
Anthony Warwick: WorkSafe Tasmania
Maree Webber: Tas Ergonomic Collaborative
Bianca Welsh: Stillwater Restaurant, Seven Rooms and Black
Cow Bistro
Dr Megan Woods: University of Tasmania
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 9
Summer’s Here
SAFETY
Working safely in the heat
Working in the heat can, quite simply, be hazardous to your ► ensure workers are not working alone; if they must work
health and safety. Your body needs to maintain a temperature alone, monitor them regularly and make sure they can easily
of about 37 degrees Celsius. If your body starts to overheat or make contact if they need help.
has to work too hard to stay cool, you can suffer a heat-related
illness: conditions ranging from fainting, heat rash, dehydration Make sure supervisors and workers are trained to recognise the
and heat cramps up to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which symptoms of heat-related illness, and know what to do if they
can be fatal. experience it or think a co-worker may be at risk.
A worker suffering from the heat can lose concentration and Staying hydrated with water (not soft drinks, tea or coffee) is also
make mistakes, which can lead to incidents and injuries. very important. Make sure workers have ready supplies of cool
drinking water available.
Work being carried out for an extended period of time or that
demands a lot of physical exertion also increases the risk of heat-
related illness. Get the guide
Safe Work Australia’s guide on Managing the risk of
Factors that increase the risk of heat-related working in heat contains straightforward directions to
reduce the risk of you or your workers suffering from a
illness heat-related illness. It includes a risk assessment checklist
In the summertime, working outside or within a space that can and a first aid fact sheet which would be ideal to copy and
heat up, such as a roof cavity, can put workers at risk. Radiant make readily available to work crews.
temperatures may be higher when working in the sun on a Go to safeworkaustralia.gov.au and search for ‘heat guide’.
concrete or metal roof, or near hot machinery.
Minimal air movement in confined or poorly ventilated spaces can
make workers feel hotter. Humidity makes it harder for a person WORKING IN HEAT
to cool down.
Working in Number of workers’ compensation claims resulting
from working in heat
heat can be
Ways to work safely
1,360
hazardous and over the ten years
Employers have a duty of care to ensure their workers are safe can cause harm from 2008–09 to
to workers 2017–18p
from heat hazards. Workers have a responsibility for their own
safety and health, and must follow UV protection policies and use OF THESE CLAIMS:
1,235 85
sun protective measures provided.
You can make modifications to buildings and indoor work spaces
working in the sun working in hot
to make them cooler (such as ensuring there is good ventilation indoor conditions
and air-conditioning systems). For outdoor workers, control 750 140
measures might include:
40
of these of these heat stroke
claims claims were
were heat stroke or heat
cancer or heat stress
► use plant or equipment to reduce manual work and exertion related stress related
► schedule heavy or strenuous work for cooler parts of the day 5 You must do everything reasonably practicable to 5 Different workers may react differently to heat
eliminate the risks of working in heat. Where the risk conditions.
(or even cooler times of the year, if possible) cannot be eliminated, it must be minimised as much
as reasonably practicable.
5 Heat is not just a hazard when working outdoors
on hot days. Consider the conditions inside your
workplace and what hazards may be present.
► modify targets and work rates to reduce physical exertion
WAYS TO CONTROL RISK
► provide shaded, air-conditioned or cool areas for workers to
take breaks in
► modify clothing so workers wear cooler, more breathable Automate processes, use plant Relocate work to cooler Where possible, don’t allow
equipment to reduce physical or air-conditioned areas workers to work alone
items labour requirements
► establish work/rest schedules
Modify targets and work rates Schedule work to cooler Review rest schedules
to account for conditions parts of the day/year
10 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 For further information see our Potential Hazards and Risks for working in heat fact sheet or our
Guide for managing the risks of working in heatHeat and UV safety
Working safely in the sun
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. ► provide shade for breaks if it’s not available in the
Each year over 2,000 Australians die from this almost entirely environment. This might be sheds, caravans, tents, windbreaks
preventable disease. or portable shade canopies. In some situations, vehicles or
public facilities may provide appropriate short-term shelter
Risks of UV ► provide and maintain equipment needed to protect workers
from the sun. This includes long pants, shirts with long sleeves
People who work outdoors are exposed to more UV (ultra violet)
and turn-up collars, and hats with broad brims or legionnaire-
radiation than indoor workers, and they have a higher than average
style flaps (you can get attachments for helmets and hard
risk of developing common skin cancers.
hats), and sunglasses that meet the appropriate Australian
It pays to be careful no matter what the day looks like: sun damage Standard
is possible on a cool or overcast day, as UV radiation can penetrate
► provide sunscreen of at least SPF 50 that is broad spectrum
some clouds, and may even be more intense due to reflection off
and water resistant
the clouds.
► provide information, instruction and training in using these and
Ways to work safely any other control measures properly to reduce UV exposure.
Employers have a duty of care to ensure their workers are safe
from the hazard of sun exposure. Workers have a responsibility
Further guidance
for their own safety and health, and must follow UV protection Cancer Council Australia has a detailed safety guide ‘Skin cancer
policies and use sun protective measures provided. and outdoor work: A work health and safety guide’ and brochure
‘Work outdoors? Use sun protection every day’.
Control measures include:
► plan for outdoor work tasks to be done early in the morning The guide is particularly detailed and is a great source of
or later in the afternoon when UV radiation levels are lower. information for making your workplace sunsmart. It covers risk
Move work indoors or into shade during the middle of the day assessment, sun protection policies, training and skin checks; and
when UV radiation levels are strongest has lots of templates and checklists to use.
Go to cancer.org.au and search for ‘outdoor work’.
Other summer safety resources
Summer is (hopefully!) the time for outdoor activities, barbecues, bushwalking and the beach. Great fun — but also involving some
risk. Here are some sites to help you stay safe this summer.
► Bush/forest safety: Parks and Forest Queensland Government, parks.des.qld.gov.au: search for ‘visit with care’ for safety when
bushwalking, camping and enjoying other activities in the bush
► Fire safety: Tasmania Fire Service, fire.tas.gov.au: for how to make your bushfire survival plan
► First aid: RACT, ract.com.au: search for ‘first aid tips’ to deal with stings, bites and other summer nasties
► Food safety: Better Health, betterhealth.vic.gov.au: search for ‘summer food safety’ to avoid food poisoning in the hot and humid
weather.
► Respiratory health: National Asthma Council, nationalasthma.org.au: search for ‘heathy in the heat’ for managing asthma or hay
fever in the warmer months
► Water safety: Royal Life Saving Australia, royallifesaving.com.au/tas: for water safety around the home (including pools), on the
beach, river and when fishing.
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 11news
+
events
Tasmania adopts national traffic management guide
On 1 January 2021, Tasmania will adopt the • AS 1742:2019 Manual of uniform traffic Roads, Tasmanian Guide. Removal of this
national Austroads Guide to Temporary control devices, in particular Part 3 Traffic requirement only applies to people who
Traffic Management. From this date, all control for works on roads (available at completed traffic management training (initial
temporary traffic management must be done saiglobal.com) or refresher) after 1 January 2017.
in accordance with the Austroads Guide and • Austroads Guide to Temporary Traffic
updated AS1742.3:2019 Traffic control for Management (available at transport.tas. Prequalification
works on roads. gov.au). Austroads has drafted a national
The aim of the Austroads guide is to improve prequalification scheme, which sets out the
traffic management practices and therefore WorkSafe’s involvement process and requirements for companies that
worker safety at road works sites. It covers State Growth’s Transport officers will be wish to become prequalified for the design
the planning, design and implementation working closely with WorkSafe Tasmania’s or implementation of temporary traffic
of safe temporary traffic management inspectors to ensure compliance with the management. Following industry consultation
practice. It is aimed at road agencies, traffic above requirements, and providing advice in August 2020, this scheme should be
management practitioners, contractors, and where improvements are warranted. adopted in 2021.
industry.
State Growth will keep the local industry
The 2021 adoption of the Austroads Guide Training updated, as it will be a mandatory
follows a year of industry consultation requirement for all works managed by the
Austroads is currently developing training
by the Department of State Growth. road authority.
material, which will form part of the national
State Growth will continue to work with
training package for improved and consistent
relevant stakeholders to ensure the guide is
training outcomes. Platform
successfully adopted in Tasmania.
State Growth is working with registered The national training framework and the
Here is what you can expect in 2021. prequalification scheme will be supported by
training organisations (RTOs) in Tasmania
about delivering the new training package. a centralised online system. This will manage
Temporary traffic RTOs will need to be approved with State prequalified organisations, approved training
management Growth to be authorised to deliver the providers and qualified individuals.
Temporary traffic management practices in training and provide statements of attainment.
Tasmania shall be conducted in accordance RTOs can continue to deliver their current More information
with: temporary traffic management training until For more information go to transport.tas.gov.
the pending release of the national training au and search for ‘austroads’. To subscribe to
• the Tasmanian Traffic Act 1925 and the package, expected in mid-2021.
Tasmanian Traffic (Road Rules) Regulations updates about the Austroads guide adoption,
(available at thelaw.tas.gov.au) For anyone trained in temporary traffic email stateroadswhs@stategrowth.tas.gov.au.
• Traffic Control for Works on Roads, management, the requirement for refresher
Tasmanian Guide 2020 (available at training every three years was removed
transport.tas.gov.au) from the Traffic Control for Works on
12 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020safety
BE
aware
Warning: Asbestos in flooring materials
Some types of vinyl floor sheeting had a soft paper-like backing Licensed removal requirements depend on the type and amount of
attached to the vinyl during manufacture. This paper backing is likely asbestos containing material present:
to contain a high percentage of asbestos fibre which, during removal,
• you do not need an asbestos removal licence to remove less than
is likely to separate from the vinyl itself. The backing layer remains
10 square metres of non-friable (bonded) asbestos
partially attached to the floor and exposed to the environment and
workers. The exposed asbestos is easily crumbled and therefore • you do need a licensed asbestos removalist to remove over 10
‘friable’. square metres of non-friable asbestos and any amount of friable
asbestos.
Asbestos-containing vinyl tiles have a much lower percentage of
asbestos, which is bound tightly within the make-up of the tile.
Sometimes these tiles can be easily and wholly removed — but other More information
times, they need to be chiselled off, which crumbles the tile and again For asbestos safety information and further practical resources,
increases the risk of exposure to asbestos. including the codes of practice How to Manage and Control Asbestos
in the Workplace and How to Safely Remove Asbestos, go to
Know the health risks worksafe.tas.gov.au/asbestos.
Disturbing any amount of asbestos can release fibres into the air.
These could be inhaled or swallowed, which may lead to debilitating
and fatal diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer or mesothelioma in If your workplace, home, garage or
later years. shed was built or renovated before
Around 4,000 Australians die annually from asbestos-related disease. 1990, there’s a good chance it has
That’s more than triple the annual road toll (source: Australian
Government Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency).
some asbestos.
Identifying asbestos in flooring materials
If you are unsure whether your building contains asbestos, how much
is present and whether the asbestos is friable or not, ask a licensed
asbestos assessor or removalist for advice. Find these at worksafetas.
gov.au by searching for ‘find a licensed asbestos removalist or
Before you start,
BE aware
assessor’.
Removing asbestos
WorkSafe Tasmania recommends that only people who have been
trained in asbestos removal practice and have access to the required
PPE and removal tools should undertake asbestos removal work.
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 13Spotlight
on Public Admin
Each edition we focus on different industries that WorkSafe has identified as priority industries. This
edition we will throw the spotlight on the Public Administration and Safety (Public Admin) industry
PUBLIC and the Mining industry.
ADMINISTRATION
AND SAFETY
INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT 2019 Tasmania’s public admin industry
Public Admin is a relatively large employer Workers aged 55–64 years olds reported
8%
of the total
in Tasmania. There are an estimated
18,000 workers in this industry which
the highest serious injury frequency rate.
The occupations reporting the most
is around 8% of the total Tasmanian serious injuries were:
Tasmanian workforce
workforce. It includes: • firefighters and police
• local government; state government • prison and security officers.
(but not areas such as education and
12.6 serious injuries per million
hours worked
THIRD HIGHEST OF ALL INDUSTRIES
health care, for example)
• public order, safety as well as justice:
There has been one reported work-
related fatality in Public Admin in the last
ten years.
for example, police, fire fighters and
38% higher than the
state average
prison guards. Body stressing, mental stress, and falls
slips and trips are the top three causes of
of
9.1 Public Admin workforce injury in this industry.
Over half of workers in the Public Admin
Occupations with the highest industry are over 45, which is higher
Public Admin resources
percentage of serious injuries than the state average of all industries; Our Public Admin industry web page
and 73% of its workers are employed full has links to relevant resources that
time, which is again higher than Tasmanian cover hazards such as slips trips and falls,
14% workers as a whole. hazardous manual tasks, occupational
violence and aggression, sedentary work,
The majority of Public Admin workers
PTSD and more. Go to worksafe.tas.gov.
are in work in state government (41%)
Firefighters and Police au and search for ‘public admin’.
followed by local government (16%).
14% Public Admin injuries
The industry reported:
• the fourth highest number of injuries
Prison and Security Officers
in 2019, with 810
• the third highest serious injury
frequency rate; this was 38% higher
12% than the state average
• the third highest number of serious
Miscellaneous Labourers injuries; this was 10% of all serious
injuries in 2019.
14 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020safety
and Mining industries
All data, unless otherwise noted, is for 2019.
A serious injury is one that results in the worker requiring at least one week of time off work due to
their injury. Injury frequency rates are calculated as the number of injuries per million hours worked.
Tasmania’s mining industry MINING
INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT 2019
4
Mining includes the mining of coal, metal Body stressing, falls slips and trips, and serious injuries per million
ore, and construction materials. It also being hit by moving objects are the top hours worked
include quarrying, gas and oil extraction three causes of injury in this industry.
and exploration.
Mining resources 56%lower than the
state average
Mining workforce Our Mining industry web page has
of
9.1
Mining is only 1% of the total Tasmanian links to relevant resources that cover
workforce. Almost 96% of workers in hazards such as slips trips and falls,
this industry are employed full-time. 48% hazardous manual tasks, noise, airborne in the last ten
of workers are aged over 45. Metal ore contaminants and more. Go to worksafe. years the serious
mining is the largest employing group, and tas.gov.au and search for ‘mining’. injury frequency
it reported the highest number of serious rate dropped
injuries, too. overall by
52%
Mining injuries Occupations with the highest
The serious injury frequency rate for the percentage of serious injuries
Mining industry has significantly improved Industry snapshots
over the last ten years, dropping overall
by 52%. However, the trend has been
WorkSafe’s Industry snapshot report
and posters, which these columns 28%
slowly increasing again since 2017. There draw on:
were 4.0 serious injuries per million hours • survey the WHS performance
worked — 56% lower than the state Stationary Plant Operators
of each industry group
average of 9.1. There were 74 injuries
in the Mining industry in 2019; 18 were • identify emerging or existing
serious.
WHS issues for evaluation and
action
19%
Who reported the most injuries?: • compare most current WHS
• stationary plant operators (28% of performance relative to Construction and Mining Labourers
injuries) previous years and, where
• construction and mining labourers applicable, to other industries
across Tasmania.
(19% of injuries)
Find your industry’s snapshot: go to
9%
• miscellaneous labourers (9% of
injuries). worksafe.tas.gov.au and search for
‘industry snapshots’. Miscellaneous Labourers
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 15news
+
events
Want your workplace
to be healthy and safe?
Free help is at hand
Update: Advisory Service
Since it began in 2007, our Advisory Service has helped small The way to wellbeing
and medium sized business in Tasmania better manage health
and safety in their workplaces. Our advisors have met with ‘As the years have gone on, we have become more involved
employers — and managers and workers — to help them in the education of health as a growing area, both in industry
improve their workplace culture around safety, and understand and educational institutions, as expected by the community and
their WHS roles, rights and responsibilities. industry alike,’ said Paul.
‘In the health and wellbeing area, there has been continued
Helping through coronavirus demand for information and guidance from our clients,’ said
The Advisors were busy during COVID-19, helping employers Paul. ‘We’re continuing to educate small and medium business
develop their COVID Safe plans and comply with Public Health on the importance of good mental and physical health, and we
directions. They teamed up with Business Tasmania to do this provide the tools (such as time saving and easy to use templates)
through webinars, and also worked directly with workplaces, and support to implement a workplace health and wellbeing
albeit in new ways. program.’
‘Our consultations have been very different this year, using Talk to an advisor today
all types of media and technology — over the phone, Skype,
Zoom, Microsoft Teams — and face-to-face when possible,’ said To book your free and confidential visit with an Advisor, go to
Advisory Service Team Leader Paul Kilby. worksafe.tas.gov.au/advisoryservice
‘It has been a period of discovery for us and we have learned
that people were happy to talk with us by any means available,
which in the early stages of the pandemic I was concerned
about. I didn’t want to put the team — or individuals at any
visited workplaces — at any risk, and luckily industry was very
accepting of that.’
During the pandemic, the Advisors also worked with Tasmania
Police, local councils, COVID regional control centres and
industry groups to keep small to medium businesses informed
and supported as they continued to operate or as they
re-opened.
Moving forward
The Advisory Service is now resuming work it had put on hold
during the pandemic.
‘Our presentations to schools and colleges, training organisations
and workplaces with new and young workers are resuming
again,’ said Paul. ‘This is an important aspect of our work, helping
students and new workers understand their safety rights and
responsibilities.’
Our Advisory Service’s Paul Kilby
and Shaned Gaffney
16 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020WELLBEING
rt i n g
Suppo
Research shows that Australian men generally fare worse than ► If you know a man is experiencing a hard time, perhaps go
women when it comes to health. Reasons for this are complex, for a walk, or talk while doing an activity. Many men prefer
but generally: talking shoulder-to-shoulder, or while engaged in an activity,
► while women often naturally talk with and seek advice from rather than face-to-face over a desk or coffee table. Make
their friends, family and even colleagues about physical and sure it’s in an informal, relaxed and private setting.
mental health issues, men are far less inclined to do so ► Provide easy access to useful information (such as posters and
► men are also more inclined to wait for a health problem to brochures), so men can find contacts for services on their
become serious before they seek out help and advice. own, or through talking to a key worker or health and safety
representative.
The role the workplace can play ► Look for opportunities to bring specific health services to
your workplace. This can help raise awareness and make it
Men’s core identity is often closely associated with their job, so easier for men who need to see a health professional.
work and work relationships play a very important role in the ► Use Men’s Health Week in June each year to hold events and
lives of working men. promote health issues and services.
Some industries and trades (such as construction, manufacturing Remember that not all men are alike, and that different groups
and transport) commonly have a high proportion of male of men in your workplace will have different needs and health,
workers. So these workplaces in particular are ideal places to wellbeing and social issues.
raise awareness of specific men’s health issues and to support
their workers to improve their health and wellbeing.
Bringing a health and wellbeing program to your workplace can Resources
make it easier for men to talk about their health and discuss The Blokes’ Book has contact details for health services
issues that they may otherwise ignore. relevant to men’s health issues. Find it at the Department of
Health’s website at dhhs.tas.gov.au by searching for ‘blokes
Workplace strategies book’.
The Better Health channel has facts about men’s health that
A workplace that supports discussion around men’s issues, and
you could incorporate into any information you share with
encourages open and honest conversation among workers, will
your workers. Go to betterhealth.vic.gov.au and search for
be more likely to inspire men to look after themselves.
‘men’s health’.
Humour can be a great way to make men feel comfortable about
Beyond Blue has information about men, depression and
engaging in health-related conversation, but remember to take
anxiety; and how to look out for yourself or a mate. Go to
the issue itself seriously.
beyondblue.org.au and search for ‘men in the workplace’
The following strategies may help you encourage the men in (search just for ‘men’ and find lots of other information, too).
your workplace to start thinking about and improving health and
The Men’s Health Week website has posters, brochures
wellbeing.
and other resources to download, print and use in your
workplace. Go to menshealthweek.org.au.
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 17news
+
events
Plumbing company
convicted and fined
Machos Pty Ltd (trading as Nu Jet) has
been fined $50,000 for a Category 2
offence under the Work Health and Safety
Abbattoir convicted and fined
Act 2012.
The incident
JBS Australia Pty Ltd was prosecuted and fined $150,000 after a worker fell into a On 22 January 2018, a worker from
wash bath filled with hot water, causing serious injuries. Machos Pty Ltd t/a NuJet struck an
underground extra high voltage electrical
cable with a pneumatic rock breaker
The incident while working on the roadway in front
On 23 November 2016, a worker was performing his normal tasks in the offal/tripe of 282 Argyle Street North Hobart. The
room at the JBS Australia Pty Limited plant at Longford. He noticed the tripe had not subsequent flash ignited oil in the cable,
fallen through the hole into the cooker, but was still in the chute on top of the cooker. causing the oil to burn.
In order to get the tripe into the cooker, the worker tried to dislodge it with a metal The worker received burns to his face,
pole. When that was unsuccessful, he decided to try and get closer to the cooker. So he both hands and torso. He was treated
climbed up onto the edge of the pre-wash tub (that was full of hot water) and stepped initially on site and admitted to hospital
onto the edge of the tub and a basket that was immersed in the pre-wash tub. As he where he made a full recovery and
was maneuvering the tripe into the cooker, he lost his footing and slipped into the tub of returned to work.
hot water, which was later determined to have been 82 degrees Celsius.
The worker’s gumboots immediately filled with hot water, causing second and third Contributing factors
degrees burns to both his legs from the knees down (including both feet). The WorkSafe Tasmania investigation
found the company:
Contributing factors • failed to undertake an adequate onsite
The WorkSafe Tasmania investigation found a number of factors contributed to this risk assessment when circumstances
incident. changed, and failed to provide adequate
supervision
The company had failed to fix the problem of the tripe getting stuck on the top of
the cooker, even though they were aware of the issue for some time. However, there • failed to notify TasNetworks of the
was a ‘work-around’: using a metal pole to dislodge the stuck tripe, which had become work it was undertaking, so that
common practice. TasNetworks could provide onsite
supervision.
There was no risk assessment undertaken of the task, or consultation with workers on
how this issue would affect them.
The charges
The penalties Machos Pty Ltd was charged with one
count of failing to comply with a health and
JBS Australia Pty Limited was convicted and fined for: safety duty (category 2). It entered a guilty
• failing to comply with a health and safety duty: Category 2 under section 32 of the plea and was fined $50,000.
Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (fine of $130,000)
• failing to consult with workers pursuant to section 47 of the Work Health and Safety
Act 2012 (fine of $20,000).
18 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020safety
About Worker Assist: How it can help you
Who is Worker Assist? ‘One of our clients told us “Worker Assist was the first place
that has helped me. I don’t know what I would have done if
Worker Assist Tasmania Inc is a community legal centre, WorkSafe had not referred me”, and another told us they were
providing a unique service — only offered in Tasmania — and fills “in the dark” until they spoke to us — and for the first time
an important role in educating and empowering workers as they to two years, they felt like they had some perspective on their
navigate the workers compensation system. claim,’ said Mylinda.
‘Our experienced team provides free legal advice that is
independent and unbiased; and most importantly we provide Increasing awareness
support to injured Tasmanian workers,’ said Mylinda Purtell, Worker Assist also plays an important role in educating
Principal Solicitor of Worker Assist. workers and the broader community on their rights to workers
compensation. It does this by visiting workplaces and talking with
How can Worker Assist help you? employers, managers and workers, and speaking at events such as
Understanding the workers compensation system can be conferences and training courses, all free of charge.
complicated and confusing — even for the employers and ‘Education is key to raising awareness of issues impacting workers
lawyers! Worker Assist can help you navigate the workers who have sustained an injury or illness,’ said Mylinda.
compensation process, and answer all your questions if you’re
thinking about lodging a claim, such as: ‘After each training session, it’s pleasing to hear from participants
that they have a greater understanding of what’s involved in a
• how do I lodge a compensation claim? claim, and of the practical solutions that they can take back to
• I have a workers compensation medical certificate, is that their workplaces.’
enough?
• are there any time limits in lodging a claim? Crunching the numbers
• how do I give notice of my injury? Since it began operating in 2011, Worker Assist has helped over
• am I an employee? 5,300 clients. It deals with around 1,000 issues each year.
‘Worker Assist can explain what entitlements you’ll receive if you Since 2016, there has been almost a 30% increase in enquiries
lodge a claim, and how these are calculated, what happens if your about mental health matters.
claim is disputed, and what happens if you work in more than
Around 10% of Worker Assist’s clients come from a culturally
one workplace,’ said Mylinda.
and linguistically diverse background; so in 2018–19, it introduced
If you need help with return to work and rehabilitation matters, a free interpreting service to help these clients lodge claims,
Worker Assist is also here for you. ‘We can help you understand attend doctors’ appointments and independent medical
your rights as well as your responsibilities; and the role of examinations, or instruct solicitors to advance their claim.
different people you’ll deal with in the return to work process
— for example, your doctor, the insurer, and injury management Get in touch
co-ordinator’, explained Mylinda.
To find out how Worker Assist can help you:
‘We can also help if COVID-19 has impacted your return to
• go to its website at workerassist.org.au
work.’
• get in touch through its Facebook or Instagram page
The team at Worker Assist works with its clients to make
• call 1300 027 747 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).
sure that insurers and employers are meeting all aspects of the
worker’s legal entitlements. You can also make an appointment to meet with a Worker Assist
staff member in person.
It also provides workers with a space to feel heard, with practical
solutions that empower them in their decision-making process. Worker Assist acknowledges the WorkCover Tasmania Board, which funds the service.
Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020 19regular
Who can claim for workers compensation?
Who is a worker? Full details and definitions
To be entitled to workers compensation, a person must be a You can find the full lists of who is included and excluded from the
worker. A worker is someone who works under a contract of definition of a worker in our Workers Compensation Handbook:
service or a training agreement. This includes casual employment. The Basics; go to worksafe.tas.gov.au and search for ‘GB010’.
Some people are ‘deemed’ workers under the Workers
Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988. Examples include (but When is a worker entitled to compensation?
are not limited to):
A worker is entitled to workers compensation if they suffer an
• volunteer fire-fighters while they are engaged in their volunteer
injury or disease that:
duties
• arises out of or in the course of their employment, or
• salespeople paid by commission
• their employment has contributed to by a substantial degree.
• taxi drivers while they are driving, loading or cleaning their
vehicle.
What can you claim for?
Who is not a worker? A worker may be entitled to compensation for:
Some people are specifically excluded from the Act, and are • weekly payments while incapacitated for work
therefore not entitled to workers compensation if injured while • medical and other expenses
working. Examples include (but are not limited to): • rehabilitation expenses
• people employed on a casual basis for a purpose other than the • permanent impairment.
employer’s trade or business
• outworkers
• people employed as domestic servants with a private family, who What is not covered?
have done less than 48 hours employment with their employer However, injuries suffered in the following situations are specifically
when they are injured excluded from compensation:
• people taking part in approved programs of work for • any injury that occurs while a worker is travelling between their
unemployment payment (work for the dole schemes). home and work (unless the injury occurs during a deviation from
their normal route that their employer tells, asks or authorises
them to make)
Sportspeople • any injury that occurs during an absence from the workplace that
In general, the Act does not apply to people engaged in sporting was not authorised, directed or requested by their employer
activities who receive payment simply for playing, training or • any injury that is caused by a worker’s serious or wilful
travelling with a sporting body. misconduct (unless the injury results in their death, or serious
However, if someone is engaged under a contract of service with and permanent incapacity)
a sporting body (for example, as a paid coach, umpire or referee), • any injury that was intentionally self-inflicted.
they are a worker.
The Act also covers sportspeople who are paid under a contract of Disease
service to perform tasks not related to competition.
A worker is entitled to compensation for a disease where their
work is the major or most significant factor in their disease.
Contractors Some injuries and diseases are contracted by a gradual process, or
In most cases, independent contractors are not entitled to workers may not become apparent until sometime after initial exposure or
compensation under the Act. An independent contractor is engaged contraction.
through a contract for services, rather than a contract of service.
However, there is an exception where a contractor is engaged to Industrial deafness
perform work exceeding $100 in value that is not work related
to a business or trade regularly carried on by the contractor. For Industrial deafness is the permanent loss of hearing caused by a
example, a person who usually works as an accountant but is worker being exposed to industrial noise in their employment.
engaged to do some gardening. In such circumstances, provided the A worker is entitled to workers compensation for industrial
contractor does not sublet the contract or employ any workers, deafness that occurred after 16 August 1995. They must have
the contractor is taken to be a worker employed by the person suffered more than 5% binaural hearing impairment due to
who engaged them. However, this does not apply if the contractor industrial deafness since 16 August 1995.
has taken out their own personal accident insurance.
20 Workplace Issues No. 97 December 2020You can also read
