In this episode of The Safety Spotlight, host Lish Fejer discusses work health and safety prosecutions with WorkSafe ACT's Commissioner Jacqui Agius and Queensland's Independent Work Health and Safety Prosecutor, Simon Nicholson. They delve into how prosecutions serve as a risk deterrent, enforce employer accountability, and raise public awareness on risk in the workplace. The episode also explores the complexity of investigations, the importance of evidence, and the focus on both incident-based and risk-based prosecutions, including the emerging area of psychosocial hazards. Key takeaways emphasise the significance of prevention, proper systems of work, and the evolving legal landscape surrounding workplace health and safety.

Join host Lish Fejer with regular guest, Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius, in this episode of The Safety Spotlight as they talk to Siti Mustaffa, the former Co-President of the ACT Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction, about how cultural and linguistic diversity impacts workplaces. This episode delves into the specific workplace health and safety challenges faced by culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) workers, covering language barriers, training gaps, cultural differences, and the overrepresentation of CALD workers in high-risk job sectors like construction and cleaning. Lish, Jacqui and Siti highlight the importance of face-to-face interactions, practical demonstrations, and integration of safety information in multiple languages, as well as stress the impact of microaggressions and the need for health and safety representatives to advocate for CALD workers in the workplace. 

Join host Lish Fejer in this episode of The Safety Spotlight, a podcast from WorkSafe ACT, featuring Professor Maureen Dollard of the University of South Australia, alongside regular guest Jacqueline Agius, the ACT’s Work Health and Safety Commissioner. This episode explores the increasingly prevalent issue of psychosocial risk in the workplace, examining its definition, its impact on individuals and organisations, and the practical steps businesses can take to address it effectively. Lish, Jacqui and Professor Dollard discuss the significant costs of psychological injuries compared to physical ones, as well as highlight the importance of a strong psychosocial safety climate and the role of legislation to support it. Through expert advice and practical examples, this episode offers essential listening for anyone involved in workplace health and safety.

Join host Lish Fejer and WorkSafe ACT Commissioner Jacqui Agius in a critical discussion on this episode of The Safety Spotlight about sexual harassment and assault in the workplace. Featuring special guest Joanne Farrell, a passionate advocate for women in construction and founder of 'Build Like A Girl', they define pertinent issues, discuss their prevalence, causes, and impacts, and offer practical ways to change workplace culture. This episode highlights personal experiences, legal frameworks, and the vital role of both individuals and organisations in creating a safe and respectful work environment.

This episode includes discussions of sensitive topics that may be distressing or triggering for some listeners.  If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual harassment, we encourage you to seek support from trusted professionals or support services.

Join host Lish Fejer in this episode of The Safety Spotlight featuring Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqui Agius and Professor Helen Lingard from RMIT University. They discuss the crucial importance of workplace safety, not just in preventing injuries but also its economic impact. The episode covers the hidden costs of cutting corners on safety, the significance of a proactive safety culture, and the benefits of consulting workers and employing safety by design. Through real-world examples and expert insights, learn how prioritising safety can lead to a healthier, more productive work environment that can ultimately benefit the bottom line.

Join host Lish Fejer and WorkSafe ACT Commissioner Jacqui Agius, in this episode of The Safety Spotlight as they delve into essential workplace health and safety (WHS) practices specifically aimed at small businesses. 

Featuring expert Michelle Boundy, their discussion covers WHS requirements, common safety challenges, and practical, cost-effective strategies to foster a 'safety first' culture. 

Listen to real-life case studies, understand the importance of proactive safety measures, and learn how to navigate WHS responsibilities effectively, regardless of your business size.

Join host Lish Fejer, WorkSafe ACT Commissioner Jacqui Agius and independent work health and safety consultant Dr Peta Miller, as they delve into the critical issue of workplace fatigue.

This first episode of The Safety Spotlight uncovers the serious risks that fatigue poses to both safety and health - often normalised or overlooked in various industries.

Learn the difference between fatigue and tiredness, identify key indicators, and discover effective strategies for managing fatigue in the workplace. Hear real-life examples of the devastating effects of unmanaged fatigue and gain insights into legal obligations and practical solutions to mitigate this widespread issue.

00:27 Introduction to Workplace Fatigue

02:11 Understanding Fatigue vs. Tiredness

04:31 Indicators and Consequences of Fatigue

05:41 Personal and Workplace Factors

07:37 Real-Life Examples of Fatigue

13:52 Impacts on Performance and Health

17:09 Managing Fatigue in the Workplace

34:28 Legislative Changes and Final Thoughts

37:25 Key Takeaways and Conclusion