Workforce diversity

When it comes to managing occupational health and safety (OHS) or workers rehabilitation and compensation, there is no "one-size fits all" approach. South Australian workplaces consist of a diverse range of workers, influenced by:

• literacy
• culture
• disability
• English language fluency.

Literacy levels

According to a recent adult literacy survey, 46 per cent of Australians between 16 and 65 do not have adequate literacy skills. Recommended approaches to making written documents reader-friendly include:

• providing written information in a logical and sequential order
• writing short sentences when preparing documents
• using written words familiar to your reader
• using consistent written terms when introducing new ideas or concepts
• using familiar jargon and acronyms in written documents.

Information kit

To help you, an information kit with checklists and management tools has been developed by WorkCover's Access and Equity unit.  Aimed at large employers (including self-insured), the kit assists you in meeting the language and literacy needs of your workers in relation to safe work and workers rehabilitation and compensation in the workplace.

Access the kit documents via this page and through the interpreting and translating policy link. To obtain a hard copy of the kit contact the Customer Centre on 13 1855. For free consultancy on how to meet the SafeWork and injury management needs of diverse workforce, contact Access and Equity unit on 13 18 55.