BMD: Putting Safety In The Spotlight

3 November 2011 - With more than 360 people seriously injured at work every day, workplace safety is a real issue impacting thousands of Australians.

BMD strongly values the safety of all; we believe that each and every person who comes into contact with our sites and offices has the right to return home safely and in good health.

That's why we put safety in the spotlight for Safe Work Australia Week (24 - 30 October).

The BMD Health, Safety and Environment Steering Committee arranged a number of initiatives designed specifically to keep safety top of mind, not just during Safety Week, but every week.

Safety Based Observations (SBO) were launched as a focus point at the beginning of the week across all BMD sites and offices. The requirement of Site Staff to complete one SBO each week, in order to help management recognise good habits and detect poor practices, has been encouraged.

Victoria's quarterly Safety Awards were also presented by BMD's Board of Directors during Safety Week.

Two projects were rewarded with lunch and certificates for their impressive safety audit figures this quarter:

• Jason Johnson (Senior Project Manager), Anthony Prest (Foreman) and their team at the Mandalay Estate Project.
• Paul Dall'Oglio (Senior Project Manager), Brad Plain (General Foreman) and their team at the M80 Ring Road Upgrade Project.

BMD also hosted two site-based presentations by the Spinal Injuries Association at our Fernbrook Estate and Bridgeman Downs sites.

Two members of the Spinal Education Awareness Team (SEAT) visited site staff to discuss injury prevention in an injury-prone workplace.

Both presenters had suffered spinal injuries, with one bound to a wheelchair, and their powerful stories proved more compelling than any standard health and safety message.

"It certainly had a greater impact on staff than just watching a video," said Celine O'Sullivan, a staff member present.

"Everyone was very attentive, and I think we all got a reality check on how easily you can get injured."

The key take-home messages from the presentations were to look after yourself and your colleagues, be aware of fatigue and stop work if required, and ensure you never become complacent in your workplace.

SEAT presentations are available throughout Queensland and Australia upon request. Please talk to your General Managers to have this initiative or similar state based initiative occur for your project or office.