The basic principle of first aid is taking responsibility for one’s own safety and not adding to the casualty list. This principle is at the heart of Brimbank City Council’s structured approach to occupational health and safety.
The Brimbank Auditing and Safety Information System (BASIS) aims for staff to be fully informed and involved in contributing to their own workplace safety. Based on the original Nippondenso Safety Audit Manager Program, it is a self auditing strategy which enables easy recognition, measurement and action on safety issues.
The program has a structured auditing program consisting of various modules, such as Housekeeping, Hazard/Incident/Accident Reporting, Personal Protective Equipment, Emergency and Dangerous Goods. These are tailored by each work team to met the needs of their Business Unit.
Under the audit system, work teams undertake their own ‘housekeeping’ audit of potential hazards. These are noted and given a rating from one to seven according to the degree of danger they represent. Details of action taken are also recorded.
“One of the fundamental aspects of BASIS is that it directly involves the majority of employees,” said Brimbank City Council’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Marilyn Duncan. “In fact, it demands their participation on an ongoing basis.”
A high degree of employee involvement and ownership is encouraged as the system is able to measure compliance, incorporate systematic updating, and enable self evaluation. In addition, there is clear delineation of responsibilities of management and staff. Safety issues which are beyond the control of work teams can be readily documented and reported for action.
Successful implementation of the program is based on three elements, education, participation and ownership, allowing employees to develop their own remedies.
“In many ways BASIS espouses the philosophies of safety starting with ‘me’ and safety being ‘everyone’s business’,” Marilyn Duncan said.
For further information contact Carol Julian, Manager Risk Management, telephone (03) 9249 4394.
