Safety is a frame of mind

Safe Work Australia Chair Ann Sherry AO has launched Safe Work Australia Month 2013 and called for nominations for the 2013 Safety Ambassador of the Year Award.

“Building on the success of last year’s Safe Work Australia Week, this year’s celebrations have been extended to a month in October,” said Sherry.

This year’s theme is ‘Safety is a frame of mind. Get the picture.’ During October all workers are encouraged to think about what is their reason for staying safe at work.

“Every workplace in Australia should focus on improving health and safety during October to reduce the incidence of death, injury and disease. I encourage everyone to get involved in promoting safety at work during safety month. A great way is to register as a Safety Ambassador in your workplace,” said Sherry.

“In 2012, a record 699 people registered as Safety Ambassadors and this year we’re aiming for at least 800 workers to get involved by registering and organising safety awareness activities at work. All you need to register is a commitment to improving safety in your workplace by motivating other staff to participate in safety month,” said Sherry.

Safety Ambassadors will each receive an information kit to help organise and promote safety in their organisation. The kit includes posters and balloons, ideas for holding activities and a Safety Ambassador pin to show their commitment to work health and safety.

Online resources will also be available at www.swa.gov.au to all Safety Ambassadors as well as the chance to enter the Safety Ambassador of the Year Award.

Sherry said the Safety Ambassador of the Year Award recognises Safety Ambassadors who show dedication and leadership in workplace safety, not just during Safe Work Australia Month but all year round.

Most work health and safety authorities across Australia will also host safety awareness activities in October. Safe Work Australia has also developed its first safety month smartphone app to help users find safety events and activities throughout the month.