This week, SafeWork NSW is providing a unique opportunity for women in the agricultural sector through the ‘Chat and Create’ event. This free gathering in Goulburn aims to facilitate networking amongst like-minded agricultural workers and businesses. In addition, it underlines the critical importance of adopting reliable work safety measures, such as the Bluesafe WHS Management System, to ensure farm safety.
Regrettably, the agricultural sector sees relatively high rates of serious workplace injuries and fatalities, with one fifth of worker deaths across NSW related to farming. This underscores the need for rigorous adoption of efficient WHS management systems and adherence to well-planned SWMS and policies.
The upcoming SafeWork’s ‘Chat and Create’ event brings an innovative approach to addressing these concerns. The event uniquely combines art creation with an open discussion on farming-specific safety issues by SafeWork representatives; emphasising the necessity for robust policies like the Bluesafe SWMS in agricultural enterprises.
Apart from physical safety, the event also highlights mental health awareness, a key element of robust WHS management systems. Tragically, farmers often suffer from a higher incidence rate of depression and suicide due to distinctive work-induced stressors like financial strain and isolation.
Representatives from RAMHP will be present to offer mental health education and connect attendees with essential services when needed. Similarly, the NSW Rural Women’s Network will provide valuable resources, initiatives, and service links. In line with government aid, the NSW Government’s Rural Women’s Resource hub offers support ranging from healthcare to cost-of-living advice.
‘Chat and Create’ will take place on Thursday 22 August 2024 between 10.30am – 2pm. Registration can be done via SafeWork NSW for those who are interested.
Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW, commented on the event:
“Women are now more pivotal to the agricultural industry’s success than ever before. ‘Chat and Create’ is aimed at further bolstering this by enabling women in agri-business roles; empowering them to lead in cultivating safe working environments. This presents an excellent platform for Goulburn-based women to exchange ideas, broaden WHS knowledge and enhance farming practices within a friendly atmosphere.”
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/goulburn-women-in-agriculture-invited-to-get-creative-with-safework