2020 has been a challenging year and as we approach the festive season, it is more important for businesses and workers to ensure they are meeting their work health safety obligations said SafeWork SA Executive Director, Martyn Campbell.

The construction industry historically has an increase in workplace incidents leading up to Christmas. The construction sector can be working longer hours to finish off jobs, and pressure to meet deadlines prior to having a break over Christmas, may increase the chance of fatigue and accidents.

SafeWork SA Executive Director, Martyn Campbell said, “There can be a lot of pressure to get work done, which increases the temptation to cut corners and puts the health and safety of workers at serious risk”.

“It only takes a momentary lapse of concentration for something to go wrong and cause significant injury. No job is worth taking a risk with your life”, said Mr Campbell.

The lead up to the festive season also puts extra pressure on the retail industry with 2020 adding complexity in keeping customers and staff safe from COVID-19 on top of the usual common workplace hazards.

Increased trading hours may result increased casual staff or school leavers being employed. It is essential extra care is taken with these vulnerable workers, including proper training and induction to safety processes.

SafeWork SA remind businesses of their duty to ensure new workers are provided with adequate information, instruction and training as part of an induction as well as adequate supervision during their course of work, particularly with young workers.

“It is the responsibility of those running a business to ensure workers receive suitable training to do their job safely and that there are adequate systems in place to protect them”, said Mr Campbell.

“We remind businesses to actively manage the health and safety of workers in the lead up to Christmas.

Slow down, take your time and maintain a priority focus on workplace health and safety.

Workers and their families expect them to return safely home each night after work. We want everyone to see the year out and enjoy some well-deserved time with their loved ones over the holiday season”.