Welcome to Spring Safety New- Spring Edition

As we embrace the arrival of spring, a favourite season for Spring Safety Consultants, we're excited to dive into a new quarter dedicated to all thing’s work health and safety.

In this edition, you'll gain valuable insights from our guest contributor Kelsey Baker and find some extra wellbeing motivation as we discuss the benefits of wellbeing and mental health. We hope you enjoy our latest newsletter and take away some helpful tips for the months ahead.

Lastly, we celebrate client successes, including National Health and Safety Awards and International ISO Certification achievements!

Feature | NSW Parliament Criminalises Industrial Manslaughter

Horrific statistics reveal that since 2019, over 300 workers have been killed in New South Wales (NSW). Finally, after 20 years of campaigning, the NSW Parliament has passed the Industrial Manslaughter Bill. NSW being the last mainland state to make industrial manslaughter an offence.

The maximum penalty will be 25 years jail for an individual, which is consistent with the existing maximum penalty for manslaughter in the NSW Crimes Act. There will be a maximum penalty of $20 million in fines for a body corporate, the highest in Australia.

Sophie Cotsis, the Minister for Work Health and Safety, calls this a “historic moment for worker safety in New South Wales" and emphasises that "every worker has the fundamental right to go to work and come home safely to their loved ones."

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Guest Contributor | Integrated Management Specialist, Spring Safety HSEQ Consulting Manager Kelsey Baker

Kelsey Baker is the HSEQ Consulting Manager at Spring Safety Consultants. We spoke to Kelsey about her career, the part where university qualifications and experience have played and asked for advice on how she now manages the Spring Safety HSEQ Graduate Development Program.

Qualifications

Masters of Health and Safety (progressing)

Bachelor of Science, Environmental Management and Sustainability

Lead Auditor in Integrated Management Systems ISO9001, 45001, 14001

Lead ICAM Investigator

?At university, you studied Environmental Science. When did you decided you wanted a career in health and safety?

My love for the environment began in childhood, when I would spend hours exploring nature and collecting little treasures during my adventures. This passion has only grown stronger over the years and inspired me to study Environmental Management and Sustainability. ?My career in work health and safety began with my first role, which combined health, safety, and environmental responsibilities. This experience introduced me to the field of health and safety, and I quickly found it fascinating, especially as my strong people skills were well-suited to the discipline. I particularly enjoyed the challenge of integrating Health and Safety Management Systems with Environmental Management Systems. I believe it’s essential to link these systems, as it creates a holistic approach to managing risks and promoting sustainability within organisations. Ensuring these systems are effectively embedded not only improves safety and environmental outcomes but also fosters a culture of responsibility and care across the organisation.

What key skills have been crucial to your success in the industry?

My success in the industry has been driven by several key skills: a keen attention to detail, strong people and communication skills, and the ability to understand and interpret legislation. Additionally, I have a talent for simplifying complex topics for our clients, whether through clear explanations or tools like process maps, making information more accessible and actionable.

Are you still passionate about sustainability? Are you going to continue post-graduate studies in this area?

Absolutely, my passion for sustainability remains strong, and I am dedicated to staying updated on best practices and industry developments. Here at Spring Safety, we are currently exploring ways to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into our offerings—so stay tuned! I am particularly interested in life cycle analysis and want to deepen my understanding of AS ISO 14040:2019 (Environmental Management - Life Cycle Assessment - Principles and Framework). I believe this approach can greatly benefit our clients by providing a comprehensive view of the environmental impact of their operations.

What are the current trends or challenges involving sustainability that professionals should be aware of?

Two major challenges currently facing the sustainability field are greenwashing and carbon credits. Greenwashing—where companies misleadingly portray their products, services, or policies as more environmentally friendly than they truly are—poses a significant problem. It undermines genuine efforts to promote sustainability and can lead to consumer mistrust. Professionals must be vigilant in identifying and addressing greenwashing practices, ensuring transparency and accountability in sustainability claims.

?Carbon credits are another critical area of focus. As organisations seek to offset their carbon emissions, the use of carbon credits has become more prevalent. However, the challenge lies in ensuring that these credits represent real, additional, and verifiable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The market for carbon credits is complex, with varying standards and a risk of purchasing credits that do not contribute to meaningful environmental benefits.

What would your advice be to anyone who aspires to make health and safety their career?? How do you go about mentoring the graduates at Spring Safety?

For anyone aspiring to make health and safety their career, my key piece of advice is to hone your interpersonal and communication skills. While technical and analytical skills are essential, the heart of health and safety is people management. If you can't effectively communicate with people, you won't make it far in this field. Focus on excelling in active listening and be prepared to work closely with diverse personality types. As Jackie Stewart wisely said, “It takes leadership to improve safety.”

At Spring Safety, this philosophy is integral to how we mentor our graduates. Communication is at the core of our approach. We work closely with our graduates, encouraging open dialogue, seeking their input and fresh ideas, and setting SMART goals to guide their progress. By fostering a culture of effective communication and collaboration, we help our graduates develop the leadership skills necessary to thrive in their careers.

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Testimonials

“Kelsey was great to work with and it was great to see you jumping on and getting this moving with us” Sam – Director, Qetra.

“Thanks for a great meeting nice to be a part of a well organised meeting, and well done to Kelsey she does an awesome job”. Jeff – HSEQ Lead Qetra.

Guidance | Spring Safety Watch: Alcohol and other drugs at the workplace

Alcohol and drug use in the workplace is a significant issue in Australia, with substantial costs to business and the community. The misuse of alcohol and drugs at work is estimated to cost the Australian economy approximately $5.2 billion annually. This figure includes costs related to absenteeism, incidents, and reduced productivity.? In terms of safety, alcohol and drug use contribute to a notable proportion of workplace incidents. Annually, it is estimated that around 5% of workplace fatalities and 11% of workplace injuries in Australia are linked to alcohol and drug use.

Substance use in the workplace isn't just a matter of physical safety; it has profound psychological implications as well. Alcohol and drugs can contribute to poor mental health outcomes, such as decreased productivity and strained workplace relationships. These effects can lead to increased absenteeism, reduced focus, and more frequent "near miss" incidents.? Substance use can heighten the risk of sudden violent or aggressive behaviours.? Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach to both physical and psychological health to ensure a safe and supportive work environment.

In a recent incident, an Australian hockey player was arrested in Paris for attempting to purchase cocaine but was released without charge. The Paris public prosecutor's office confirmed the arrest of the 28-year-old athlete, highlighting that drug use issues are not confined to marginalised groups but can also affect high-profile individuals, including athletes and corporate leaders. This serves as a reminder that substance abuse can cross all societal boundaries, impacting a wide range of individuals regardless of their social or economic status.

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The article from Frontiers in Psychiatry explores the impact of cocaine use among professionals, including C-suite leaders, and its implications for the workplace. Cocaine, often perceived as a drug associated with high-status individuals, can lead to significant cognitive and psychological impairments. For leaders, this can manifest as poor decision-making, heightened risk-taking, and increased impulsivity. These effects not only undermine the leader's ability to effectively manage and guide their team but can also create a toxic workplace environment.

Additionally, the article highlights that cocaine use can disrupt workplace dynamics, leading to strained relationships, reduced morale, and increased turnover. The pressures of leadership, combined with the stimulant effects of cocaine, can exacerbate stress and anxiety, leading to burnout and further psychological distress.? Ultimately, the presence of cocaine in the corporate sphere poses a risk to both individual well-being and overall organisational health,?highlighting the need for Fitness to Work Program awareness and intervention at all levels of the workplace.

With an abundance of guidance from SafeWork Australia indicating that education and training are vital components of any alcohol and drug policy and that employers should provide adequate information of the effects of substances. Education around the importance of a drug-free workplace should be made clear while resources should be made available for employees who may need to seek help. Employee Assistance Programs can be an effective way to offer support for those who are struggling with substance use.

Finally, the ‘Guidance Note on Alcohol and Other Drugs at the Workplace’ provides a comprehensive framework to help navigate the issues associated with drug and alcohol at work.

References

Pidd K, Roche A, Cameron J, Lee N, Jenner L, Duraisingam V. Workplace alcohol harm reduction intervention in Australia: Cluster non-randomised controlled trial.?Drug and Alcohol Review. 2018;37(4):502-513. doi:10.1111/dar.12660

PPE I 3M Adflo Helmets

In all arc or gas welding and cutting operations, fumes are inevitably produced. Work Health and Safety legislation mandates that risk assessments must address both the production and control of these fumes. Recently, the exposure standards for welding fumes have been updated, with permissible limits reduced from 5 mg/m3 to 1 mg/m3. It’s crucial to stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and maintain a safe working environment.

Many of our clients have been uncertain whether their workers would be exposed to an airborne contaminant from welding processes above the relevant WES (total welding fumes or individual chemicals), so that’s why we are conducting air monitoring in partnership with Andrew Williamson from Occupational & Environmental Monitoring and Management Services.

While we do not endorse specific products, we ensure that our recommendations are based on analysis and current industry standards, this includes the 3M Speedglas Adflo welding helmets, which offer several benefits, including:

1. Enhanced Protection: The Adflo helmets provide excellent protection against harmful UV and infrared radiation, as well as potential impacts from welding sparks and debris.
2. Advanced Respiratory Protection: The integrated Adflo P3 particle filter and gas filter help protect against hazardous fumes and gases, ensuring a cleaner and safer breathing environment.
3. Improved Comfort: The helmets are designed with ergonomic features, including adjustable headbands and balanced weight distribution, reducing fatigue and improving comfort during long welding sessions.
4. High-Quality Auto-Darkening Filter: The Speedglas auto-darkening filter ensures optimal visibility and reduces eye strain by adjusting the shade level automatically in response to the welding arc brightness.
5. Durable and Reliable: Constructed with high-quality materials, the Adflo helmets are built to withstand tough working conditions, providing long-lasting performance and reliability.

Finally, the latest news on the issue is that from 1 December 2026, PCBUs must ensure that no person at the workplace is exposed to an?airborne contaminant?at a level above the exposure limit in the workplace exposure limits for airborne contaminants.?? Until 1 December 2026, PCBUs must still comply with the?WES list.

?References

- Welding fumes | Safe Work Australia

Wellbeing | Power of Pilates

Mental health has become a central focus in the workplace, especially since the introduction of regulations addressing psychosocial hazards under the Work Health and Safety laws. ??One evidence-based approach that you may not have considered in your strategy, is Pilates.? Research shows that Pilates offers significant benefits, not just for physical fitness but also for mental health. The practice is shown to improve overall quality of life, making it a powerful tool for those looking to boost their mental resilience.? Pilates has emerged as a popular holistic approach, with people worldwide turning to it to enhance both their physical and mental health.

Here are a few ways Pilates can positively impact your mental well-being:

1.?Stress Reduction- the Pilates practice shows a great emphasis on mindful movement, breathing, and concentration. By focusing on deep, controlled breathing movements we promote relaxation and decreased levels of stress.

2. Enhanced Mood- Pilates movement releases endorphins which are the body’s natural mood elevators. Regular mindful movement can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression while contributing to an overall sense of wellbeing.

3. Better Sleep- Pilates strengths and stretching movements can improve sleep by reducing physical tension throughout the body. Regular movement can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythms.

4. Social Interaction- Participating in Pilates classes can provide a sense of community and social interaction between people. Having networks of people around you who share common interested is an important aspect of mental well-being. Feeling apart of a group can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Reference

Kamioka H, Tsutani K, Katsumata Y, Yoshizaki T, Okuizumi H, Okada S, Park SJ, Kitayuguchi J, Abe T, Mutoh Y. Effectiveness of Pilates exercise: A quality evaluation and summary of systematic reviews based on randomized controlled trials. Complement Ther Med. 2016 Apr;25:1-19

Lim EJ, Hyun EJ. The Impacts of Pilates and Yoga on Health-Promoting Behaviors and Subjective Health Status. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Apr 6;18(7):3802.

International news | Robens the Rebel

2024 marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA), a pivotal piece of legislation that has significantly shaped workplace safety standards in the UK. This milestone prompts reflection on the Act's historical impact and its relevance in addressing contemporary workplace challenges, particularly in light of evolving technologies and changing work environments.

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The Act's origins trace back to the Robens Report, which highlighted the inadequacies of prescriptive, industry-specific safety regulations in the late 1960s. Lord Alfred Robens recommended a shift towards a goal-setting regulatory framework, where those creating risks bear the responsibility for managing them. This led to the establishment of the HSWA and the creation of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), fundamentally transforming how workplace safety is regulated and enforced.

Over the past five decades, the HSWA has proven resilient and adaptable, with its risk-based, non-prescriptive approach allowing it to address new challenges, such as mental health and technological risks. The focus has gradually shifted from mere compliance to understanding the broader benefits of a safe working environment, including improved business outcomes. Looking ahead, the future of the HSWA may increasingly focus on protecting mental health in addition to physical safety, reflecting modern-day workplace realities.

Reference

Reflections on 50 years of the Health and Safety at Work Act - NEBOSH

Safety tech

Safety technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been gaining momentum in the workplace.? Here are some of top recommendations:

1. Embrace Wearable Technology: Implement wearable devices that monitor vital signs, sleep performance, fatigue levels, and environmental conditions in real-time. These devices can alert workers and supervisors to potential hazards before they escalate.
2. Leverage AI and Predictive Analytics: Use AI-powered software to analyse safety data and predict potential risks. Predictive analytics can help prevent incidents by identifying patterns and trends that human analysis might miss.? Free course click here Introduction to Artificial Intelligence – store.training.tafensw.edu.au
3. Enhance Communication with Mobile Apps: Deploy mobile apps that allow for instant communication, incident reporting, and safety alerts. Apps like Sonder can provide real-time support and resources, ensuring that help is always within reach.
4. Utilise Drones for Inspections: Implement drones for high-risk inspections in areas that are difficult or high risk to access. Drones can provide detailed visual data while keeping workers safe.
5. Invest in Virtual Reality (VR) Training: Use VR to simulate hazardous situations in a controlled environment. VR training allows workers to practice their responses to emergencies without the associated risks, improving preparedness and safety outcomes.

?Events I Protect and Promote

?September

10th Sept World Suicide Prevention Day

12th Sept R U Ok Day?

26th World Environmental Health Day

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October

National Work Safe Month

10th World Mental Health Day

26th World Sustainability Day

28th -30th Personal Injury & Disability Management National Conference & Awards, Perth

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November

14th World Quality Day

19th International Men’s Day

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December

2nd – 4th Safety & Health Expo, London

10th Human Rights Day

Client Success Stories

Big shout out to our client BGIS who are finalists for the Australian Workplace Health and Safety Awards 2024!

·?????? BGIS Pty Ltd (Perth Stadium account) – AFL behind goal nets manual handling redesign.

Clients Dravus, Gold Field Explosives, Qetra, and Azure Minerals are all going for ISO Certification which is perfect timing thanks to the WA Government Local Capability Fund. To apply click here Local capability fund: standards compliance round (www.wa.gov.au)

We invite our readers to share their thoughts, suggestions, and feedback for future editions of Spring Safety News. Your input is invaluable to us, and we would love to hear about topics that pique your interest.

?The end I Wrap up I Stay Safe

Team Spring Safety