Adelaide’s City of Burnside takes occupational health and safety very seriously. In line with its 2006 Vision that states the City should be recognised for excellence in best practice in the management of human resources, Council is working towards maintaining a zero lost time injury rate through to the year 2000 and beyond. Furthermore, it is aiming to achieve and maintain a WorkCover Level 3 rating by 31 December 1997.
Rather than depend primarily on the safety initiatives of a particular officer or OH&S; Committee, Council has devolved responsibility throughout the organisation. Directors, line managers and team leaders are all accountable to the Chief Executive Officer for the development and implementation of Occupational Health and Safety plans for their departments, sections and teams. Council’s Occupational Health and Safety Committee provides support, advice and assistance for OH&S; planning throughout the organisation and monitors performances.
Performance appraisals at all levels of the organisation include an assessment of health and safety plans, actions, audits and results. Ensuring that all staff work safely, and are fully aware of Council’s Occupational Health Safety and Welfare Policies, Safe Operation Procedures and their own personal responsibility for safety, is a high priority.
Similarly, ensuring the workplace is free from hazards has become everyone’s responsibility. Council believes developing a culture that promotes open discussion on health and safety issues and concerns is paramount to encouraging a safe working environment.
For further information on Burnside’s OH&S; program contact Rodney Donne, CEO, telephone (08) 8366 4299.
