Manningham City Council’s comprehensive Staff Induction Program and Manual, developed for its Aged and Disability Service, has brought widespread benefits for both staff and clients. The program ensures all staff are thoroughly familiarised with council’s operations and correct occupational health and safety practices before commencing work. They are also assured of ongoing support and development.
Adding to ISO9001 Quality Assurance and SafetyMAP accreditation, the Service is now pursuing Advanced Level SafetyMAP accreditation to take it that ‘one step further’. Aged and Disability Service Manager Tess Tsindos said this will bring considerable benefits in a contracting environment.
“We can ensure that our thorough attention to safety does not just stop with our own service,” she said. “Contractors will have to provide documented evidence that they have safe, ongoing procedures in place.”
Tess said while initial costs of establishing proper processes for occupational health and safety may be high, particularly for small organisations, in the long run it saves money.
“A lower accident rate significantly lowers WorkCover premiums and thorough induction streamlines service delivery, reduces staff turnover and minimises time spent on queries and complaints,” she said. “If an incident goes further and entails legal proceedings you can readily provide the documentation necessary to support your procedures.”
Manningham’s Manual has been purchased by a number of other Councils. It is provided on a template basis allowing organisations to tailor it to their specific requirements. In some cases, it has been purchased jointly by two or more services within a Council.
The Service is also included in the granting of EMS9001 to Council. Manningham believes it is the only Council in the world to achieve all three accreditations.
In the area of Aged and Disability Services, this will mean the adoption of environmentally friendly practices to minimise adverse impacts on the environment. As an example, carers are encouraged to use environmentally friendly cleaning products.
“It has a big impact,” said Occupational Health and Safety Officer, Jo Smith. “The actions of our carers influences their clients and others to adopt a more environmentally aware attitude. It also assists with health and safety through reducing staff exposure to harsh chemicals.”
For further information contact Keri Kennealy, telephone (03) 9841 5044.
