Highlighting a positive shift in workplace safety, over the past 11 years, Australian workplaces have made significant strides in safety, with a noteworthy 30 per cent decrease in traumatic injury fatalities since 2012.
Despite historical challenges, such as over 1,850 reported fatalities and more than 1,140,000 workers filing significant compensation claims involving one week or more of lost working time, it’s crucial to acknowledge the positive trend emerging.
This marks a considerable improvement compared to the previous decade, showcasing a collective commitment to safety in Australian workplaces.
Statistics like these caused Hunter Safety Awards Founder and Judge, Sarah-Jane Dunford to spearhead the awards and bring them to the Hunter region.
Sarah-Jane said that seeing the decrease in fatalities is something she is extremely grateful to see and is a testament to the concerted efforts of organisations, not only in the Hunter region, but also nationwide.
“As we pay tribute to the notable progress made in enhancing workplace safety, we are thrilled to announce our 2024 award finalists,” Sarah-Jane said.
This year’s finalists include businesses and individuals who have demonstrated positive approaches to Work, Health, and Safety (WHS) in their workplace.
The remarkable decline in fatality statistics signifies a shift in workplace safety, highlighting the unified dedication of businesses to prioritise the wellbeing of their workforce.
“The decrease demonstrates the concerted efforts of organisations not only in the Hunter region but also nationwide.”
“The statistics show a dedicated focus on implementing robust safety measures and comprehensive work programs. It is evident through the submissions we received that businesses are investing time and effort into fostering safe working environments,” Sarah-Janesaid.
“The finalists for this year represent the state-of-the-art safety innovation that can be seen within our region. Their unwavering dedication to outstanding work environments has not only set them apart but has also positioned them as leaders in this space.”
Each submission received this year serves as an example of excellence in action, and we look forward to congratulating the finalists as well as celebrating their achievements at our upcoming event.
“The judges were impressed with the number of entries for their individual categories this year. These people are champions in promoting WHS practices as well as bringing innovative approaches to their business.”
Each year the Hunter Safety Awards attracts sponsors from local, national, and international business communities, with AGL again the major partner.
AGL General Manager Bayswater, Len McLachlan said they are proud to return in 2024.
“At AGL, we believe that our people are our most valuable asset, which is why nurturing a safe workplace is not just a priority for us, it’s also a fundamental responsibility,” Len said.
“Safety is not just a box to tick for us, it’s ingrained in our company’s DNA. As the major sponsor, we take immense pride in supporting the positive focus on improving safety over the years.”
“It’s inspiring to see local businesses actively engaging in creating safer workplaces and we’re excited to see what remarkable ideas, programs and innovations local businesses and individuals have put into place over the last year,” Len said.
In addition to AGL, there is also a large group of returning award sponsors, including the University of Newcastle, uvex, WesTrac, 3M, Red Insight, Ampcontrol, Tomago Aluminium and Fenech Demolition.
In 2024, the awards have also welcomed two new sponsors, John Holland and Gunnebo.
Awards will be presented across 12 categories and will see the winners announced at a gala event on Friday 15 March 2024 at Newcastle Exhibition and Conference Centre (NEX).
For a full list of finalists and tickets to the 2024 Hunter Safety Awards, go to their website.
IMAGE | Previous award winner, Newcastle Airport.
