Learn about safety from big business. Feb 28 2008

THE is a partnership with industry and WorkCover NSW to help small businesses improve their occupational health and safety (OHS), workers compensation and injury management practices. The program provides small businesses with regular, relevant contact with a large mentor business that can assist them in fostering and maintaining a safer workplace. Safe workplaces are productive workplaces, and the Mentor Program enables WorkCover NSW to work with industry across the state to develop solutions to safety challenges.

Far North Coast construction business, Ballina Concrete Pumping, participated in the Mentor Program in 2007 and owner, Narelle Besseling says the program has helped move her business in the right direction. “It can be difficult for a small business to be on top of occupational health and safety,” she explains.

“Participation in the Mentor Program has taught my staff about their workplace safety responsibilities, not only to themselves, but to their employer and their colleagues. My mentor was from one of the nation’s largest construction companies and the knowledge passed on has been invaluable,” adds Besseling.

Expressions of interest are being sought from small businesses in the construction and manufacturing industries that would like to participate in this program in 2008. Participation in the Mentor Program is free of charge.