The NSW government has recently announced two separate safety programs that will be of direct benefit to retailers in NSW.
The first of these programs is called Safe Manual Handling – Smart Move. This program is a five year program which will result in a series of new publications relating to manual handling as well as one-on-one assistance for employers and extensive consultation with industry regarding the problems faced regarding manual handling. The ARA will be consulting with WorkCover regarding the specifics of this program and will keep members informed.
The second program is called the Small Business Safety Program and is specifically targeted at small businesses. The main features of this program include:
- A program of granting up to $500 worth of rebates for small businesses who make safety modifications to their workplace or install safety equipment
- A Confirmation of Written Advice service so that businesses will be given specific written advice about how to improve workplace safety
- An expansion of the successful business mentoring program (currently being undertaken in construction) across to retail
- A case study and ambassador program for retail
- A wide range of services to increase interface with retailers including new safety buses, extra Business Advisory Officers and 1,500 free safety shows across NSW over the next three years.
WorkCover will also establish ten regional small business advisory groups across NSW. These will be in Sydney, Western Sydney, Central Coast, Illawarra, Hunter, Riverina/ Murray, Northern Rivers, Central and Far West, New England, the North West and the North Coast. This will allow employers to directly consult with WorkCover regarding OHS and workers’ compensation issues facing small businesses in their area. If you are interested in being involved in this consultative process please contact either WorkCover NSW on 13 10 50 or the ARA.
