2016 WorkSafe Award winners announced

The winners of the Victorian 2016 WorkSafe Awards include a ramp with self-closing doors, a robotics system for cutting large carcasses and a comprehensive return to work program for disadvantaged employees.

More than 330 people attended the gala ceremony at the Regent Plaza Ballroom in Melbourne where the winners were announced, including Minister for Finance Robin Scott.

“Safety at work can never be compromised and I hope the fantastic example of all our winners inspires others to implement their own health and safety ideas across Victorian workplaces,” said Scott.

The winner of the best solution to a specific workplace health and safety issue was M C Herd, which designed a motorised unloading ramp with self-closing doors. This was to eliminate a fall risk for drivers as they deliver and unload cattle at their meat processing operation. Access to the ramp means that drivers no longer need to walk on top of crates or get inside them to unload.

Scott Automation & Robotics was a joint recipient of the health and safety invention of the year, for creating a machine to assist with cutting large carcasses. The X-Ray Primal System has reduced the risk of injury from cuts, lacerations and manual handling of heavy carcasses.

Meanwhile, Melissa Johnson from Outlook Vic won the return to work coordinator excellence award for her commitment to caring for all employees. 70% of those employed have a disability or come from a disadvantaged background and Johnson developed a comprehensive return to work system that includes manager training, relationships with local treating practitioners and ongoing surveys to ensure employees feel supported.

WorkSafe Chief Executive Clare Amies said the high quality of the finalists was a reflection of the commitment shown by so many Victorian workplaces to health and safety.

“Victoria is fortunate that it has so many organisations and individuals dedicated to keeping workplaces safe and ensuring injured workers get back to work as soon as they are safely able,” Amies said.

“Safety can never be taken for granted and our award winners remind us that every improvement in health and safety, no matter how small, makes a difference to someone’s life.

“Its people and organisations like these who are making it possible for all Victorians to get home from work safe every day.”

To see the full list of winners, click here.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Tashatuvango