It pays to be united

The Taskforce on Safety's adoption of 10 Steps Toward Safety, being promoted across local government in NSW, is a great win for better OH&S protection. The practical steps represent a move closer to a safer work environment for officers who encounter aggressive members of the public while undertaking their important work in the community.

At the May meeting of the Taskforce on Safety – Ranger and Parking Patrol Officers, the USU promoted a 10 Step plan to improve safety outcomes for the officers. The Steps provide practical ways that councils can support their staff, reduce the incidence of violence and promote a healthier workplace.
 
The 10 Steps were debated and amended by the Taskforce members who represent key industry players. After much discussion the 10 Steps  were adopted by the Taskforce and has now become a resource on the Taskforce website to be promoted throughout the local government industry.  

The list of 10 Steps was drawn from the suggestions put forward by USU members which were published in the USU’s Moving-on for Safety publication. (This publication can be downloaded here).

“This is an exciting development in getting the industry to focus on practical steps to safety.  It also shows how the USU continues to listen to its members and work to get results.  The Union will monitor the roll out of these practical steps and continue to work with the industry to get results. Members should also be aware that gains made in this area will inevitably assist in improving safety outcomes for other council officers who actively work in their communities,” said USU General Secretary Graeme Kelly.

The Taskforce is a coalition of different organisation in the local government industry.  It includes representatives from the USU, the Local Government & Shires Associations of NSW, WorkCover NSW, Australian Institute of Local Government Rangers (Inc), Australian National Parking Steering Group (NSW) as well as other organisations and various councils.

Download pdf copy of update here.

Practical resources and links:

USU Rangers & Parking Patrol Officers –  http://www.usu.org.au/localgovernment/rangers.html

NSW Local Government Taskforce on Safety – Rangers & Parking Patrol Officers http://www.localgovernmentsafetytaskforce.com/