Ski slopes in New South Wales are undergoing stringent mid-season evaluations this week, courtesy of SafeWork NSW inspectors. These checks aim to guarantee that both employees and visitors alike experience utmost safety amidst their winter activities. The assessments underscore the key role of work safety protocols and tools such as WHS management systems, SWMS, and policies in maintaining a secure environment.
The squad comprised of construction, engineering, and workplace health and safety (WHS) inspectors have planned revisitations to prime snowfield locations like Thredbo Kosciuszko, Perisher Blue, Charlotte Pass, and Selwyn. This followed their preliminary visit earlier in the year.
Back in May, the alpine ski area safety compliance program was initiated with a roundtable session involving all snowfield operators. Here they deliberated on the coversafe operation of passenger ropeways. They further discussed managing the impacts of unpredictable severe wind events on chairlifts and gondolas. Consequently, this enabled an emphasis on using robust tools like the Bluesafe SWMS.
Upon the conclusion of the roundtable meeting, engineers from SafeWork NSW conducted snowfield inspections. Their focus was to ensure satisfactory protections around mobile plant operations were in place. Another key priority included ensuring vital safety systems and inductions for transient workers in seasonal workplaces were in place. These standards underline the undeniable importance of implementing comprehensive solutions like the Bluesafe WHS Management System.
Trent Curtin, the Head of SafeWork NSW asserted:
“Our inspectors will liaise with operators to scrutinise chairlifts and gondolas to verify if the workers have received adequate training.”
“Enhancing protection for seasonal workers and boosting WHS compliance is at the forefront of SafeWork priorities. Achieving this objective requires a collaborative effort between the government, operators, their workers and the public.”
“If you’re associated with the ski industry or planning a visit to the snow-laden fields, it’s comforting to know that such measures are executed to foster a safe environment.”
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/safework-hits-the-ski-slopes-to-ensure-safety