WorkSafe Awards shortlist recognises 22 safety and return-to-work finalists

The awards recognise achievements in workplace health and safety and return to work, with finalists drawn from sectors including healthcare, landscaping, construction and local government.

WorkSafe Chief Executive Officer Cathy Henderson described the nominations and finalists as inspiring examples of what can be achieved when workplaces take safety seriously. “Each year, the WorkSafe Awards show how employers and workers across the state can reduce workplace harm and assist injured workers back to work,” Ms Henderson said.

The finalist line-up includes recognition for preventing and managing workplace psychosocial risks, as well as five Health and Safety Representatives who represent Victorian workers. Four finalists are being recognised in the Worker Return to Work category.

Agricultural safety innovations are also in contention. Ms Henderson highlighted a workforce safety system co-designed by farmers and farm workers, alongside an autonomous robot that replaces tractors to improve safety during table grape harvesting.

“Workplace safety is always a team effort, so it’s important to take the time to celebrate the innovations and hard work of people who share a passion for improving the lives of workers around Victoria,” Ms Henderson said.

The seven award categories are Leading RTW Practice, Worker RTW Achievement, Excellence in Preventing and Managing Psychosocial Risk, Farm Safety Solution, OHS Leadership/Achievement, Workplace Health & Safety Solution of the Year, and Health and Safety Representative of the Year.

Tickets for the awards event are available through Eventbrite until Friday 30 January.

How Blue Safe can help: Our free WHS self-check can help you review your business’s approach to workplace health and safety and identify areas that may need attention. Take the free WHS self-check