Blog

December 10, 2021

Workplace Consultation

Workplace consultation is an essential aspect in managing workplace safety and was strengthened as a duty within the harmonised legislation that was introduced in 2012.  Consultation can be as simple as walking through a new task with a worker to a site meeting or catch up with contractors when they first attend site.  The business may also need to foster consultation between contractors that interact with each other.

Does the consultation need to be documented?  The short answer is no, the problem with consultation is not proving whether it has occurred, it is the belief that it has occurred.  How many times have you heard a supervisor say, “that’s not what I meant” after a task is completed or “please review the new procedure” whereas the consultation is needed before the procedure is developed.

Consultation is a collaborative process between the company and workers and involves sharing information about health and safety.  The company must give workers who are, or are likely to be, directly affected by a matter relating to workplace health and safety, a reasonable opportunity to express their views or raise issues and ensure

  • relevant safety information is provided
  • workplace health and safety matters can be raised
  • workers can provide input on:
    • identifying hazards and assessing risks
    • making decisions about ways to eliminate risks
    • decisions regarding adequacy of facilities
    • proposed changes that may affect health and safety
    • decisions on workplace health and safety procedures.

There a number of ways that can assist with good workplace consultation

  • With young and new workers: Tell them what you want, show them what you want, then watch them do what you want
  • Open question: instead of asking closed question such as, “does every one understand / does anyone have any questions?” which may result in yes/no answers; ask open questions, “so what tools do we need?, what could go wrong?”
  • Site visit for high risk activities such as a crane lift with all contractors present including the site supervisor, relevant contractor and crane operator to ensure all bases are covered

There is a code of practice that provides further advice on how to manage consultation in the workplace; Work health and safety consultation, cooperation and coordination Code of Practice 2021 (worksafe.qld.gov.au)

If you have any questions in regards to Workplace Consultation please get in touch here.

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About Steve Fitzpatrick
With 20 years’ experience in health and safety, management systems and training, Steve specialises in assisting small to medium sized businesses achieve the standards required to work with tier-one construction companies, mining and government contracts and as a registered lead auditor, can assist in achieving ISO certification in safety, quality and environmental systems.