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WHS consultation: why it is important and how to make it more effective.

WHS consultation: why it is important and how to make it more effective. Jane Clarke. Safe Work SA funded project. Identify features of effective consultation: Aged care Construction Hospitality. What difference does it make?.

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WHS consultation: why it is important and how to make it more effective.

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  1. WHS consultation: why it is important and how to make it more effective. Jane Clarke

  2. Safe Work SA funded project • Identify features of effective consultation: • Aged care • Construction • Hospitality

  3. What difference does it make? Participation of workers = improved HS systems + reduction in injuries and illness.

  4. Why? • Critical knowledge held by workers; • Increased trust and ownership.

  5. What do we mean by consultation? Meaningful input into decision making Providing information

  6. What does the act say? 48 (1) Consultation requires that workers be given the opportunity to: b (ii) contribute to the decision- making process relating to the matter

  7. It is not just if you have a committee…. The extent and nature of consultation is a critical factor in the effect on illness and injury outcomes. (Eaton and Nocerino in Walters D, 2010)

  8. Table discussion What would meaningful and effective consultation look like in your workplace?

  9. Does it matter how they consult? Direct versus representative. it’s a question of power….

  10. Role of WHS Representatives • Independent (not management nominees) • Clear about your role • Respected by those who you represent • Time • Support to do the role • Training • Protection from discrimination • Access to advice and support from unions

  11. Table discussion What support do you need to be able to consult effectively?

  12. Management culture matters…. Trust Respect Support of participation

  13. Ayres, Culvenor, Sillitoe and Else Meaningful and effective consultation and the construction industry of Victoria, Australia .

  14. Disturbingly…. The topic of consultation remained the same … trouble shooting or execution rather than strategic long term and design issues. who controls the agenda???

  15. Challenges…. Growth in precarious employment; direct casuals and labour hire; Sub-contracting Outsourcing

  16. Waiting for safety: Responses by young Canadian workers to unsafe work, by Tucker and Turner Teenage workers in our study seemed reluctant to speak out when they have concerns and instead wait things out, reflecting an understanding of the managerial constraints on their action. …unless collective concern

  17. Table discussion… What challenges do you face in your industries or worksites? What examples of success do you have?

  18. Jane Clarke Project Officer Centre for Work + Life University of South Australia (08) 8302 4234 jane.clarke@unisa.edu.au www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Centre-for-Work-Life/

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