Businesses and communities can now have their say in shaping SafeWork NSW’s new strategy to enhance health and safety measures for workers across the State.
Head of SafeWork NSW Natasha Mann said the NSW Government wanted to hear from workers, employers and business stakeholders to help inform the Towards Healthy Work Plan due to be launched in late 2023.
“Prevention of workplace incidents has mainly focused on identifying physical hazards in the workplace but research shows health and safety can be improved further when work is designed to be physically and psychologically healthy and workers are engaged in the way work is done,” Ms Mann said.
“SafeWork NSW is encouraging the business community to review our principles of ‘Healthy Work’ and to contribute to ideas, stories and examples of work practices that are healthy.
“Recent amendments to the WHS regulations have introduced specific obligations to consider employees’ psychological health when designing systems at work. SafeWork NSW now wants to encourage an integrated approach towards healthy work in their plan.
“During the consultation period, we want your input, including examples of how healthy work is good for business, how leadership is fundamental to creating healthy work, and the ways in which healthy work can positively influence lives.
“This ‘Have your say’ proposes to strengthen an already robust work health and safety framework and ensure clarity and consistency across various industries.
“We want all stakeholders to have an opportunity to provide feedback and to share examples of what they look for in a healthy workplace.
“This work builds on SafeWork’s commitment to improving work health and safety by ensuring businesses meet their compliance obligations, and are supported to achieve healthy, safe and productive workplaces.”
