In Challenging Times Look for Opportunities

As we all begin to face this changing world due to the COVID-19 virus, many people are facing new challenges and are finding new solutions. Whilst speaking with friends, many of them are considering how to fill their time if they are unable to work. Some of the more popular topics include completing home projects, renovations or undertaking a new hobby, as a means of keeping busy.

At some point, things will change, and organisations should plan and prepare for the influx of workers, starting up the machinery and trying to return to normal operations, where possible. Like home projects and the associated planning, organisations should be thinking about their business plans and those things that they can apply whilst the workers are not in the workplace.

Some of these projects may include, but are not limited to:

• Reviewing your Health and Safety Management System and considering a transition to ISO 45001:2018 Occupational health and safety management systems - Requirements with guidance for use;
• Completing Management Reviews of your existing systems and process to ensure their currency and effectiveness;
• Completing workplace inspections and/or Risk Assessment of plant, chemicals and other high-risk activities;
• Up-skilling your workers with adequate information and training with webinars and/or 'eLearning' modules;
• Checking with Registered Training Organisations (RTO's) to see how they are applying the government rules with social distancing and hygiene practices; and
• Reviewing traffic management areas in the workplace and implementing controls such as barriers, signage or painted walkways.

Most of the tasks above can be completed electronically and with minimal personal interaction whilst maintaining the health and wellbeing of your most valuable assets, the workers. Furthermore, most of these activities can be completed internally with minimal staff or you could gain the assistance from a third party.