At risk workers
If you are a mine operator you need to take extra steps to ensure the safety of contractors and inexperienced workers as these workers are over represented in fatalities and injuries.
Contractors and inexperienced workers are identified as at risk workers in the NSW mining and extractives industry. They are generally less familiar with the workplace environment, procedures, other workers or lack experience which places them at higher risk. Contractors or inexperienced workers may not know the process or feel they are placing their job in jeopardy if they speak up with regards to safety issues, workplace systems, job or work environment and or bullying and harassment.
If you are a mine operator you need to take extra steps to ensure the safety of contractors and inexperienced workers as these workers are over represented in fatalities and injuries.
Safety measures
Mine operators should increase safety measures for at risk workers. This can be done through:
- tailored information and training
- increased supervision
- workplace or job re-design
- providing the opportunity for all workers to attend the same pre start within the mining operation to ensure consistent safety messages are received.
To learn more about at risk workers visit the SafeWork NSW website.
Sharing private medical information
Worker’s injury and treatment information can be sensitive in nature. The NSW Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) regulates how individuals’ personal information is handled.
Mine operators should be aware of their legislative obligations regarding sharing information about their workers, and subsequent treatment for injuries and illnesses.