In October 2022 John Merritt was appointed by The Honourable Kyam Maher MLC to conduct a review of SafeWork SA. The purpose of the review was to undertake a comprehensive assessment of SafeWork SA’s compliance and enforcement functions. This review was completed in December 2023.
John Merritt handed down 39 recommendations in his final report.
One of these recommendations suggested SafeWork SA should develop a new strategy to support Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) in their role. The reviewer submitted that:
“HSRs are, in many ways, the single biggest asset that we have in improving health and safety in workplaces. They provide a practical resource for any worker to express their reservations about a safety issue without fear of retribution. Importantly, HSRs are trained in their role. Many HSRs are incredibly passionate about health and safety and go to great lengths to educate themselves and to understand the work processes. South Australia needs more HSRs, and it needs those HSRs that are in place to be better supported to fulfill their critical role.”
SafeWork SA created a Health and Safety Strategy 2024 – 2026, this 5‑point plan is designed around how to promote the role of HSRs and to assist companies to understand the benefits of HSRs in the workplace.
Central to Safework SA’s vision is the appointment of Adam Spinks as the HSR Advisor. The HSR Advisor’s primary purpose is to provide support and advice to HSRs in South Australia.
With over 4 years’ experience at SafeWork SA, Adam has a passion for helping others and his proactive approach and commitment to continuous improvement will help promote and influence positive WHS outcomes in SA workplaces driving the key goals and initiatives of SafeWork SA’s ‘Health and Safety Representative Strategy 2024 – 2026’
Contact Adam via Email: help.safework@sa.gov.au
The South Australian Business Chamber is extremely supportive of this appointment as part of the strategy created by Safework.
If you would like information regarding training your Health and Safety Representatives, please contact us on training@sabusinesschamber.com.au
