Entries are currently open for the 2013 WorkCover NSW SafeWork Awards, in which businesses, organisations and individuals have the opportunity to be recognised for their contributions to workplace safety.
If you or your company has come up with an innovative way to make your work environment safer, now is the time to make some noise about it!
Entries have been open since May 28, and yesterday (June 18), acting general manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division Peter Dunphy reminded businesses of this chance to seek recognition for their good work.
“Our inspectors see plenty of truly innovative ideas that are making a big difference to the safety of NSW workers,” said Mr Dunphy in a statement.
“I’m encouraging businesses to take ten minutes out of their day to submit a SafeWork Awards entry – it’s online and quick and easy to do.”
Award categories include ‘Best workplace health and safety management system’, ‘Best solution to an identified workplace health and safety issue’, ‘Best workplace health and safety practices in small business’, and ‘Best individual contribution to workplace safety’.
This year also sees the addition of two new categories, recognising both individuals and businesses for their work in helping injured employees return to the workplace.
First held in 2004, the awards have since decorated 45 winners from a wide range of industry sectors and from all across NSW.
In addition to the possibility of receiving recognition for their hard work in improving workplace safety, entrants also have the chance to enhance their reputation as a result of the awards publicity and to enjoy the promotional benefits.
What’s more, finalists receive two free tickets to the awards ceremony, to be held on October 31 in Sydney, including overnight accommodation and return airfares from regional areas if necessary.
Mr Dunphy encouraged all NSW workplaces to highlight their achievements in promoting better workplace safety practices by entering before July 19.
For more information and to apply online, those interested need simply visit www.safeworkawards.com.au.
The new categories in particular cover an important stage for all injured workers: the return to work.
However, some injuries can be so severe that they prevent workers from being able to return to their jobs.
In these cases, it may be possible for the victim to access a lump sum payment from their superannuation or insurance policy, in what are known as Personal Disability claims.
For more information about TPD claims, victims of workplace accidents may want to get in touch with injury compensation lawyers, who specialise in these cases.
