Work Health and Safety Excellence Awards for 2023 was held at Optus Stadium on 27 October.
This year 65 submissions were received with 25 companies recognised as finalists. Seven finalists were recognised with a winner’s trophy and five finalists received a certificate of merit. An outline of all finalists and winners are available in the Work Health and Safety Excellence Awards 2023 Booklet.
Wallis Drilling Pty Ltd – Aircore automated rod handling system
Wallis Drilling developed an innovative, compact and cost-effective automated rod handling system specifically designed for aircore drill rigs.
Aircore drilling workers manually handle heavy drill rods up to 200 times per shift. Wallis Drilling identified muscular stress and repetitive movement hazards faced
by its drillers. While larger drill rigs use automated rod loading systems, size and cost restraints have previously prevented their use in aircore drilling operations.
Wallis Drilling’s aircore automated rod handling system is the result of collaboration and consultation with workers. Brainstorming sessions with workers
were followed by extensive research and analysis, discussions with engineers and designers, and workshop and field tests. Following successful testing, four new aircore drill rigs incorporating the system were built. By implementing the automated system, Wallis Drilling has eliminated the manual handling of drill rods. The system is reliable, robust and has increased productivity
Rigsafe Lifting Solutions – Americold High Bay Cold Storage Facility
Epigroup – Alter Ergo
Epigroup designed Alter Ergo, a service that aims to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Alter Ergo uses 3D modelling and motion sensors to capture tasks in detail, including joint angles, movements, postures and sustained loads. This information is analysed using a tailored data management system, developed in collaboration with Principia Technology. Biomechanical data and individual worker factors such as sleep quality and stress, are analysed to provide a holistic view of physical demands and potential risks. The focus on identifying risks associated with movement during tasks has led to the implementation of targeted controls, such as redesigning tasks.
Workplaces can develop ‘job dictionaries’ that outline the physical demands, injury risks and safe work methods for tasks, leading to
improved safety measures. Alter Ergo was successfully trialled in collaboration with an underground mining operation. The system has since been implemented in mining and manufacturing workplaces, and can be adopted in other industries, including aged care.
City of Canning – LBin tail lift platform at the Resource and Recovery Waste Transfer Station
City of Canning developed a bespoke engineering solution, the LBin Tail Lift Platform, in collaboration with workers and Contained Waste Solutions, to mitigate several hazards associated with delivery vehicles fitted with tail lifts that present at the Resource and Recovery Waste Transfer Station (RRWTS). The platform was designed to provide a safe work area between trucks’ tail lift platforms and the waste disposal edge. By ensuring a flat, slip resistant work platform, installed with handrails, steps and edge protection, this solution has mitigated the risks of:
• falls from height (up to 2 metres) from vehicle tail lifts
• working in proximity to heavy machinery
• musculoskeletal injury from climbing on and off the tail lift and moving bulky items over a barrier for disposal.
Additional administrative controls are in place to support its installation, including an instructional video and signage, and a dedicated RRWTS worker is available
to offer direction.
Edith Cowan University – Immersive Violence and Aggression De-escalation Experience (IVADE)
Town of Port Hedland – Reducing the impact of anti-social behaviours and psychosocial related hazards to staff and the public
The Town of Port Hedland faced a significant challenge with rising antisocial behaviour (ASB), particularly in the South Hedland area. This growing issue posed a risk to worker safety, wellbeing, and morale at four of the Town’s worksites. To address these concerns, the Town engaged external consultants to conduct a comprehensive analysis of its ASB risk management practices and make recommendations for reducing harm. It conducted physical observations, operational process reviews, and policy examinations. After the Town implemented various recommendations, including additional security measures, there was a significant reduction in ASB incidents reported.
The Town also invested in Mental Health First Aid training, an employee assistance program and actively addressed community issues including unsafe syringe disposal and volatile substance use, contributing to a safer environment. The Town’s success in transforming its workplace health and safety culture highlights the transferability of its approach to other industries grappling with similar challenges.
East Metropolitan Health Service, WA Health, Royal Perth Bentley Group, RPH Emergency Department – MAKESpace
Macco Feeds – Implementing work health and safety
Macco Feeds has achieved significant improvements in workplace safety in its agriculture-based business including the successful implementation and communication of safety concepts and initiatives, and the redesign and application of a comprehensive work health and safety management system. A culture of consultation and communication has been fostered, ensuring workers understand their safety expectations and responsibilities. This approach has led to a more engaged workforce, a reduction in injuries and increased hazard reporting.
Macco Feeds has demonstrated its commitment to safety by consulting with workers and partnering with a work health and safety specialist. Worker training and education are more effective, with a range of communication formats to cater to different learning needs. These initiatives offer valuable lessons in practical health and safety management for agriculture workplaces and can be adapted for broader use. Additionally, extending work health and safety support to rural communities can empower businesses, improve safety, and potentially enhance the overall health of rural populations.
Good Sammy Enterprises – Safety management
Good Sammy Enterprises has made significant strides in enhancing workplace health and safety through its Safety in the workplace initiative. Key achievements include the development of a comprehensive learning and development system, redesign of the induction process to identify workplace adjustments early and include psychological safety, and implementation of physical improvements like railings and signage in warehouses. Investment in modern safety platforms has streamlined incident reporting and training management, and the introduction of a Safety and Wellbeing Advisor has further supported safety initiatives. Consultation is now key, with committees, daily pre-start talks, and culture surveys involving workers in decision-making processes. The results of these initiatives have led to increased worker engagement, improved safety reporting, and tangible changes in the workplace. These initiatives demonstrate a universal approach to workplace safety, emphasising worker engagement, clear roles and responsibilities, safe systems of work, continuous improvement, and compliance.
Rob Curtis – St John Western Australia
Rob Curtis, a devoted paramedic at St John Western Australia, has been a strong advocate for the health and safety of his fellow workers. In his role as a health and safety representative (HSR), Rob has raised and championed numerous safety initiatives across St John, including manual handling techniques, driver safety training, and violence prevention strategies – all with a singular focus on safeguarding his colleagues. Rob temporarily joined the College of Pre-Hospital Care to train paramedics in safety procedures while fulfilling his HSR duties. He actively participates in safety meetings, initiatives, and public awareness campaigns, enhancing communication within the organisation. In the past year, he has led critical projects, ensuring worker and patient safety were key considerations in the development of the Complex Patient Ambulance, revising emergency driving procedures and fostering collaborations with ambulance services nationwide. Rob’s dedication has resulted in a healthy and safe workplace, with improved procedures and equipment, through consultation and collaboration.
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