PUTTING a worker safety program in place can help cut lost time injuries, build morale and boost productivity, says Safety First’s Kevin York.
Mr York has workplace safety programs operating in twenty-two organisations around Perth.
He said his organisation could act as a buffer between management and staff.
“It can help the workers accept difficult changes and use them,” Mr York said.
One of the most recent successes from a Safety First program was enjoyed by GPR Truck Sales & Service, resulting in the company winning a Silver WorkSafe certificate.
Mr York said one of the benefits of the program was that many of the safety rules employed by GPR through the program were thought up by the staff.
“Workplace rules are largely made up by staff anyway. If employees don’t believe in the safety rules, they won’t use them,” he said.
Another offshoot of the program for GPR was a suggestion from employees regarding the company’s laser alignment bay.
Workers were able to convince management that a hydraulic rig would improve safety.
It did – and also improved productivity.
