In the lead-up to the busiest time of year on the state’s roads, I’m urging motorists to rethink their on-road behaviour with the launch of the NSW Government’s latest enforcement campaign: “Stop it … Or cop it.”
Designed to deter motorists from taking risks and encourage them to take greater responsibility for their on-road behaviour, the new campaign comes as the state’s largest high visibility road safety police operation, Safe Arrival, is underway.
The silly season isn’t an excuse to be silly.
Stop and have a break if you’re too tired to drive, share the driving, make sure you have a Plan B, always wear a seatbelt and leave your phone alone!
While we don’t want to charge people, if you choose to put yourself or others at risk by breaking the road rules or being reckless, you will face the penalties.
Summer safety
As the temperature rises, workers (particularly those outdoors) are being reminded to take care in the extreme heat.
With temperatures in the mid to high 30s this week, businesses need to have systems in place to protect workers from heat-related illness and exposure to ultra-violet (UV) radiation.
Working in extreme heat shouldn’t be taken lightly, as it can reduce concentration and the ability to recognise risks, and this can result in serious injury or even death.
Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean recently expressed caution saying: “Working in extreme heat shouldn’t be taken lightly, as it can reduce concentration and the ability to recognise risks, and this can result in serious injury or even death.
Other safety tips for working in the heat include:
- Drink water - at least 200mL every 15-20 minutes.
- Don’t drink energy or caffeinated drinks as they can have a diuretic effect.
- Provide frequent rest breaks and rotating tasks to lessen exposure to the heat and/or sun, as well as mental and physical fatigue.
- Provide outdoor workers with sun protection even when working in the shade.
- Provide clothing with UPF 50+, including loose shirts, long sleeves & collars, long pants.
- Provide broad spectrum sunscreen (at least SPF 30+), broad-brimmed hats and wrap-around sunglasses that meet Australian Standards for UV protection.
Free guidance material on fatigue management and working safely in the sun is available at www.safework.nsw.gov.au or by calling 13 10 50.
Visit www.safework.nsw.gov.au
Join the SES
There’s never been a better time to become an SES volunteer.
Volunteers play a vital role in communities, building resilience prior to disasters and responding to residents affected by floods and storms.
You can use your skills to help your community.
Visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au
More time
Time has been extended to nominate for the 2018 NSW Women of the Year Awards.
These awards are a great opportunity to acknowledge the fantastic contributions of women across the Bathurst electorate.
Nominations now close on January 7, 2018. Visit www.women.nsw.gov.au
Article by Paul Toole appeared in the Lithgow Mercury
