The Geelong Manufacturing Council recently hosted its annual GMC Connect WorkSafe Breakfast, drawing over 70 members to engage in discussions on workplace safety. The event featured key presentations from WorkSafe Victoria, focusing on the latest developments in safety measures for welding fumes management and an update on WorkSafe’s forklift guidance.
During the session, WorkSafe’s Manager of Occupational Health & Operational Programs, Perdita Dickson, and an Occupational Hygienist, Bronwyn Haste, provided an in-depth explanation of the hierarchy of control system, a framework used to manage workplace risks effectively. They highlighted the importance of prioritising engineering controls over administrative actions or personal protective equipment (PPE) whenever possible as the most effective way to reduce hazards. Attendees were also introduced to the latest engineering controls and PPE designed to minimise workers’ exposure to harmful welding fumes, a significant concern in many manufacturing environments.
An industry perspective was provided by Sam Martin, Safety & Training Officer from Ballarat company Goldacres, a manufacturer of agricultural spray equipment. Sam was able to provide valuable insights into Goldacres’ safety improvements via the implementation of welding tip fume extraction.
Additionally, a WorkSafe Inspector shared the latest Forklift Guidance Update, which included real-world case studies demonstrating successful implementation of new safety measures. Both physical and AI supported solutions were highlighted.
The breakfast event offered a valuable platform for GMC members to ask questions directly of WorkSafe representatives, fostering a deeper understanding of how to enhance safety within their own operations.
