As the end of the year approaches, many workplaces experience increased pressure, changing schedules, and shifting priorities. While it can be a rewarding time, it also brings a unique set of Work Health and Safety (WHS) risks. The combination of fatigue, staff shortages, festive events, and operational deadlines means safety systems can easily become strained.
To ensure a safe and compliant close to the year—and a strong start to the next—businesses should take a proactive, structured approach to WHS. Here are the key concerns and obligations employers should address during the final months of the year.
Managing Fatigue and Workload Pressures
Why it matters
End-of-year deadlines, increased customer demand, and leave-related staffing gaps often result in longer hours or compressed workloads. Fatigue reduces concentration, slows reaction time, and significantly increases the risk of incidents.
Employer obligations
- Monitor hours worked and ensure employees take adequate rest breaks
- Review rosters to avoid excessive overtime or back-to-back shifts
- Encourage reporting of fatigue-related concerns without stigma
- Ensure management leads by example in maintaining sustainable workloads
Recommended actions
- Implement fatigue checks for high-risk roles
- Communicate clear expectations around workload management
- Consider temporary staffing to avoid overburdening teams
Seasonal Stress and Mental Health Risks
Why it matters
End-of-year stressors—both professional and personal—can heighten psychological risks. High workloads, performance reviews, financial pressures, and holiday-related stress can impact wellbeing.
Employer obligations
- Identify and manage psychosocial hazards as part of WHS duties
- Provide access to mental health support services (e.g., EAP)
- Foster a culture where psychological safety is prioritised
Recommended actions
- Check in with staff about workplace pressures
- Promote wellbeing initiatives and remind staff of support resources
- Train supervisors to identify signs of stress or burnout
Safety Risks During End-of-Year Shutdowns or Ramp-Ups
Many businesses either slow down significantly or push into high-activity periods depending on the industry. Both come with WHS considerations.
If your workplace shuts down
- Conduct shutdown inspections: electrical, plant, security, and hazardous substances
- Develop procedures for safe isolation of equipment
- Communicate clear shutdown responsibilities and timelines
If operations intensify
- Reconfirm competency of all staff operating plant or equipment
- Ensure temporary or seasonal workers receive full WHS inductions
- Increase supervision in high-risk or high-traffic areas
Safe Celebrations and End-of-Year Events
Why it matters
Work functions—whether onsite or offsite—can introduce WHS risks related to alcohol, travel, behaviour, and environment.
Employer obligations
- Provide a safe environment and manage foreseeable risks
- Set clear standards of behaviour aligned with workplace policies
- Have transport options or safe-travel guidance for attendees
Recommended actions
- Communicate conduct expectations before events
- Limit alcohol service and provide food and non-alcoholic options
- Ensure managers understand their responsibilities during events
Reviewing Incidents, Hazards and Risk Controls
The end of the year is a strategic time to reflect on safety performance and prepare for the year ahead.
Employer obligations
- Document and investigate all incidents and near misses
- Review risk assessments for relevance and accuracy
- Consult workers on what’s working and what needs improvement
Recommended actions
- Analyse WHS data for trends
- Update safety procedures and training plans
- Schedule early-year WHS training refreshers
Ensuring Compliance With Legal and Reporting Requirements
End-of-year periods can distract from mandatory compliance obligations. Businesses should ensure no WHS requirements are overlooked.
Key obligations may include (depending on jurisdiction):
- Maintaining up-to-date safety documentation and registers
- Meeting reporting requirements for notifiable incidents
- Ensuring licenses, permits, and certifications are current
- Keeping training records complete and accurate
Recommended actions
- Conduct an internal WHS audit or compliance check
- Assign responsibility to a dedicated WHS coordinator or manager
- Set up automated reminders for time-sensitive obligations
Preparing for the New Year
A strong start to the upcoming year depends on planning before the current year ends.
Recommended actions
- Schedule safety meetings and training for the start of the new year
- Update WHS objectives and targets
- Plan maintenance or upgrades during shutdown periods
- Communicate early about key safety initiatives for the coming year
Conclusion
End-of-year WHS management is not just about compliance—it’s about protecting people during a period known for higher risk. By focusing on fatigue, mental health, safe celebrations, operational changes, and compliance obligations, employers can safeguard their teams and set the stage for a productive and safe new year.
