Malcolm McKenzie – National Placements Manager
Just a reminder of the importance of induction when commencing projects or placements. This not only helps Associates with understanding the systems and processes utilised by our respective clients but also matters relating to Occupational Health and Safety and any risks associated with performing the role.
Many of our clients will have different approaches to induction with some having formal systems in place which they proactively require new contractors to participate in, whilst others are less proactive in their expectations. The important thing is that during your pre-commencement communication with the client, you ask what are the induction requirements for commencement?
Formal systems may include online self-paced training packages through to face-to-face delivery. Some of them may require provision of compliance items such as Construction White Card or Working with Children Check. In the absence of any systems in place, CT Management does have some Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) templates available for more risky activities such as Building Condition Assessments and Construction Supervision. If you would like a copy of a template, please contact the office.
Although we have a shared responsibility for OH&S, changes were made to the Victorian OH&S Act in March this year which imposes on host employers the same duties towards on hired workers as they do towards their direct employees. These would typically be applicable to placements and include, amongst other things, a duty to:
- monitor the health of employees
- provide information to employees about health and safety
- keep information and records relating to health and safety of employees
- employ or engage persons suitably qualified to provide advice on health and safety
- consult with employees when doing certain things relating to occupational health and safety
CT Management Group and the host employer have a duty, so far as is reasonably practicable, to consult, cooperate and coordinate with other people who have a duty to the same worker. In other word, communication, and consultation between all parties on health and safety matters is important.
Requirements in other states may differ however the principle outlined above would be a reasonable expectation when working on client’s sites. So, if you have any concerns about health and safety matters, raise them with the client but also keep CT Management Group informed.