As a worker, you have a legal responsibility to maintain your own health and safety and not place others at risk.
Protect your own health and safety
All workers are responsible for protecting their own health and safety at work.
To minimise the risks to your health and safety:
- keep your work area free of hazards
- make sure your employer has provided you with induction, training and instructions so you feel safe doing the work being asked of you
- follow all reasonable (safe) directions by your supervisor
- do not undertake work if you are not confident that you can do the task safely - ask your supervisor for guidance and training
- stop work if you become aware of an unsafe situation and immediately report it to your supervisor
- read all policies and procedures carefully, particularly where they may impact on your health and safety
- comply with all policies, procedures and instructions in relation to work, health and safety (WHS)
- wear all required PPE
- operate plant and machinery in line with correct policies, procedures and training
- do not take drugs or consume alcohol before or at work
- actively support WHS consultation processes
- assist incident investigators or workplace inspectors.
Do not place others at risk
It is also your responsibility to not place others at risk:
- take reasonable care that your actions or lack of action does not adversely affect others
- do not interfere with, change or remove any safeguard, safety device or personal protection equipment (PPE) - except when part of an approved maintenance, repair or emergency procedure
- report all hazards or incidents to your supervisor as soon as possible.
Treat others with respect
Discrimination, sexual harassment and bullying and inappropriate behaviour is not acceptable and is against the law.
If you are experiencing any inappropriate behaviour at work or you witness such behaviour, report it to your supervisor or manager. Alternatively, contact us on 1300 365 255 or the Fair Work Commission on 1300 799 675.
Reporting safety concerns
Speak to your supervisor or Health & Safety Representative if you have concerns about the safety at your workplace.
Alternatively you can contact us on 1300 365 255 for advice.
If you want to report a safety issue at your workplace, you can do so online or by giving us a call. You can choose to remain anonymous however we can act more quickly if we have full details. Your identity will remain confidential if/when dealing with your employer.
