FAQs
Want to know what the deal is when it comes to your safety at work? Check out our Big Mouth FAQs and get safety #101 down pat.
Q: When I first start a job, what kind of things should my induction cover?
A: During induction your boss should:
- show you how to use the equipment you’ll be working with
- provide and show you how to safely wear/use any safety gear
- help you get to know the layout of the workplace
- introduce you to your immediate supervisor, health and safety representative and workmates
- explain OHS policies and procedures - including where to find forms, first aid and emergency
evacuation procedures
- explain the roles and responsibilities for safety in the workplace.
Action:
· Remember to ask lots of questions if you’re unclear about something during induction.
· For more information refer to this handy checklist
Q: If I’m only a casual worker, does that mean I’m still entitled to the same amount of training as the full timers?
A: Yes. Whatever your type of employment – full time, part time, casual –Your boss needs to make sure that you are shown how to use the tools and equipment needed for your job. Your boss or supervisor should also be available to provide advice during your day to day work.
Action:
· Ask your boss or supervisor for training or help if you’re not sure how to do something safely.
· If you’re still not sure about something (even after the training), just ask for some extra help.
Not sure how to ask? Why not try out some of these phrases:
> "I'm still not sure how this works. Could you spare a few minutes to show me again?"
> "I think I've got the hang of this, but can you watch to make sure I'm doing everything right?"
> "I'm still a bit uncomfortable with this. Would you mind explaining it/showing me again?"
Q: What’s the deal with working late shifts at work – is there an age limit for this?
A: If you’re under the age of 15, the law says that you can’t work past 9pm.
If you’re over the age of 15, you can work later at night, but your boss needs to take steps to keep you safe (for example security and having other staff around). Your boss should also be able to explain all the things they have in place to keep you safe.
Action:
· If you feel unsafe working late shifts, it’s important that you bring this up with your supervisor or manager. Tell them why you feel unsafe and work with them to improve your safety levels.
· For more information refer to this handy checklist
Q: What should I do if I hurt myself on the job?
A: The most important thing to do if you have a work-related injury or illness is to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. You should let your boss know what happened and you may need to fill in a WorkSafe claim form.
Action:
· Check out the step by step process to follow if you’re injured on the job.
Q: What can I do if my boss won’t take my claim form?
A: It’s actually against the law for your boss not to accept your form. But if they still won’t take it from you, you can send it to your employer’s workplace injury insurance Agent.
Action:
· Find out who your employers’ workplace injury insurance Agent is and contact them about your claim (your Agent’s name should be written on the "If you are injured" poster displayed in your workplace.)
· You can also call the WorkSafe Advisory Service on 9641-1444 or 1800 136 089 to find out who your Agent is.
Q: Sometimes we don’t seem to have enough safety gear around to use. What does my boss need to supply?
A: From goggles to gloves, safety boots to hardhats, your boss needs to provide you with the gear to do your job safely. They need to make sure it’s in good condition and that you know how to wear it properly.
Action:
· Talk to your boss or supervisor about the problem and ask if they can organise for some more gear to be provided.
· You could also talk to your Health and Safety Representative about the gear and they may be able to speak to the boss for you.
Q: When we’re busy, my boss gets me to work really long hours without a break. How long should I work for before having a break?
A: It depends on your particular job, but generally you can work for a maximum of five hours before taking a break. Working long hours without a break can put you at risk of an injury or illness, so your boss needs to make sure you have time out to rest.
If you’re under the age of 15 there are limits on the number of hours you can work. Check out youthcentral for more handy info on working hours and breaks.
Action:
· If you’re over 15, raise this question with your boss. Ask them how long your break is and when you can take it.
· If you are on an award agreement, check out your award for background on when and how long you should be working for.
· Talk to your supervisor about a way to plan your work hours. Ask whether you can have some support such as cover, or a roster to make sure you can take your breaks on time. And explain that you think working long hours without a break isn’t a safe way to work.
· If you are still having concerns contact FairWork Australia for info on breaks according to your specific job.
Q: I work in a kitchen where the floors are always wet and slippery and I often have to carry heavy boxes of food. Is this worth worrying my boss about?
A: Definitely. Slips, trips and falls from wet slippery falls and injuries from heavy lifting are among the most common and frequent injuries and can result in severe consequences
Action:
· Speak to your boss or manager about the issue (they will probably appreciate you identifying the hazard!).
· If you’re after a few brownie points with the boss, you could even suggest ways for solving the issues (I.e. using non- slips mats and trolleys to move heavy boxes.)
· For more handy slips and trip solutions check out this link