Young workers aged 15 to 24 years who comprise 17% of the Australian workforce are over-represented in injury statistics compared to older and more experienced workers.
The Automotive Mechanic – Body Repairers Industry has long recognised the importance of creating a strong safety culture in demonstrating the importance of employee morale and safety to productivity, improving quality and efficiency.
The newly released Pro-Visual Publishing Interactive – Body Repairers Guide to Workplace Safety 2021/22 endorsed by the National Safety Council Australia and industry partnering Associations, Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers, Australian Autoglass Industry Alliance and the Australasian Automotive Transmissions rebuilders assists in recognising and controlling the key hazards associated with the autobody repair and refinishing industry, with the latest WHS Regulatory Guidelines and Framework focussed on proactive prevention of injury, ill-health and essential information in order to help create a workplace safety culture of Zero Harm.
The young worker and mental health is a primary focus of the Guide, viewed through the framework of risk management, protecting young workers from both physical and psychological workplace hazards, as well as human factors encompassing error prevention. Latest industry statistics for young workers seriously injured aged 15-24 years across all industries include”
- 40%: Trauma to muscles, tendons/joints and ligaments
- 24%: Wounds, lacerations, amputations
- 12%: Fractures
- 6%: Residual soft tissue disorders and with 1 in 4 Young Workers experiencing mental illness.
Pro-Visual Publishing, CEO, John Hutchings said: “Health and safety strategies and accident prevention measures need to be individualised and adapted to the type of worker most likely to be at risk and shaping a culture of safety for young workers. Having complementary WHS management systems allows businesses to anticipate, adapt and respond to the risks and opportunities created by a highly innovative industry like automotive.”
Developed with interactive AR capabilities for use with your smart device, the Guide improves the safety knowledge and capabilities of students, apprentices and trainees as young workers respond well to information provided using images and technology, rather than highly technical, written documents. Communicating WHS policies and procedures through a range of methods, including using technology that young people are familiar with alongside traditional methods, such as one-on-one discussions and team meetings, is highly effective.
Together Pro-Visual Publishing and their partnering Associations have carefully selected additional subject matter that addresses WHS issues pertinent to the industry, which includes:
- Workshop Housekeeping to eliminate workplace hazards and prevent Slips, Trips and Falls
- Chemical Exposure Risk Identification Assessment & Control Management
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
For free guides, email marketing@provisual.com.au or for a free guide subscription visit: www.provisual.com.au.