Free safety assessments in Kimberley

Kimberley businesses can take advantage of a free three-hour on-site visit by an independent WorkSafe WA consultant throughout September.

A similar program was conducted in the Pilbara region in August as part of the ThinkSafe Small Business Assistance Program.

The sessions involve a three-hour time commitment for businesses, with the consultant assisting with safety issues rather than assessing them.

"The program started in February 2005 and 780 small businesses have applied for help over that time," WorkSafe WA Commissioner, Nina Lyhne said. "Interestingly, half of these are from regional areas throughout the state."

Lyhne said 19 small businesses in the Kimberley have already applied for assistance in areas such as manufacturing, agriculture and transport services.

"They face issues such as proper induction of employees, documentation of safety and health procedures, new and young workers as well as manual handling issues," she said.

The WorkSafe visits focus on education, not enforcement, with none of the information gained during the confidential visit reported back to WorkSafe.

Businesses can register their interest by contacting WorkSafe or downloading an application form from www.safetyline.wa.gov.au.