Every October, businesses across Australia take part in National Safe Work Month, an initiative led by Safe Work Australia to promote workplace health, safety, and wellbeing. It’s an important opportunity for employers to reflect on their current safety practices, engage employees in meaningful discussions about risk prevention, and strengthen their overall safety culture.
Below are key considerations for employers to focus on during this month—and beyond.
Review and Refresh Work Health and Safety (WHS) Policies
National Safe Work Month is an ideal time to review WHS policies and procedures. Check that all documentation aligns with current legislation, codes of practice, and the specific risks associated with your industry.
- Are your safety policies up to date with recent regulatory changes?
- Do they clearly outline responsibilities, reporting mechanisms, and emergency procedures?
- Are they communicated effectively to all employees?
A brief annual audit can ensure your systems remain compliant and practical.
Reassess Risk Management and Control Measures
Conduct a risk assessment review to ensure all control measures remain effective. Workplaces evolve—new technologies, materials, and processes can introduce new hazards.
Employers should:
- Revisit existing risk registers.
- Update safety data sheets (SDS) and signage.
- Check that personal protective equipment (PPE) is suitable and well maintained.
- Consult with workers about any emerging risks they’ve noticed.
This proactive approach helps prevent incidents rather than reacting to them.
Reinforce Training and Competency
A strong safety culture depends on knowledge and consistency. National Safe Work Month is a good time to:
- Review your induction and refresher training programs.
- Ensure high-risk work licences and first aid certifications are current.
- Provide targeted toolbox talks or workshops focusing on this year’s safety theme (for example, “Working Together for Safe, Healthy, and Productive Workplaces”).
Well-trained employees are more confident, productive, and less likely to be injured.
Promote Mental Health and Wellbeing
Workplace safety extends beyond physical hazards. Employers should consider how their practices support psychosocial wellbeing, including workload management, bullying prevention, and work-life balance.
Encourage open conversations about mental health, offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and provide training for leaders to recognise signs of stress and burnout.
Safe Work Australia’s Model Code of Practice: Managing Psychosocial Hazards offers useful guidance for all industries.
Encourage Worker Participation and Consultation
Safety works best when everyone is involved. During National Safe Work Month, employers can strengthen engagement by:
- Holding safety forums, toolbox talks, or team challenges.
- Recognising workers who contribute to safer practices.
- Reviewing consultation mechanisms with Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) and committees.
When employees feel heard and empowered, safety becomes a shared value rather than a compliance task.
Celebrate Success and Set Future Goals
Finally, use October to acknowledge achievements and set safety goals for the next 12 months.
Highlight improvements—such as reduced incident rates, successful audits, or new wellbeing initiatives—and discuss areas for ongoing development.
Recognition reinforces commitment and motivates continuous improvement.
Final Thoughts
National Safe Work Month is more than a campaign—it’s a reminder that every worker deserves to return home safe and healthy every day. Employers play a central role in making that happen by leading with commitment, consistency, and care.
By reviewing policies, engaging staff, and fostering open communication, businesses can build safer, stronger, and more resilient workplaces all year round.
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With Sherm, Auditing has never been easier to ensure your systems remain compliant.
Conduct Risk Assessments, ensure Training is completed and your workers are Competent, encourage worker participation and promote mental health and wellbeing all within our easy to use software system.
Sherm Software has it all, get in touch today and see for yourself.