Safety and Training
WAFIC plays an important role in developing a practical approach to improving both maritime safety and workplace safety. It is imperative that the commercial fishing industry is a safe industry in which to work.
Safety is heavily regulated and it is important to understand that there is separate legislation in all states covering:
- Marine Safety; and
- Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare.
WAFIC's services to industry include:
- Development and maintenance of an 'Industry Code' incorporating legislative requirements and safe working practices for fishermen and crew;
- Production of training materials including brochures, videos, booklets and guidelines for use by owners, skippers and crew;
- Specific training courses to supplement the Code;and
- Delivering safety advice around the state.
- Current projects include:
- The national extension of the WAFIC OH&S Industry Code (FRDC);
- Industry accident statistics (FRDC);
- Development of a software based uptake tool to measure the use of the WAFIC OH&S Industry Code (FRDC);
- Maintaining a register of experienced and qualified OH&S consultants across regional areas within the state; and
- Assisting government agencies to implement training and awareness initiatives, eg Thinksafe/Worksafe.
WAFIC has produced various products that are available for industry to purchase which will assist in the development of a workplace health and safety approach for your business. These products include:
- WAFIC OH&S industry code, including updates on an as required basis;
- WAFIC safety induction video and training manual;
- WAFIC safety induction booklet; and
- Storm Alert Video - A guide to severe weather at sea training video (produced by the Department of Transport with WAFIC assistance).
For more information contact WAFIC's Acting Safety and Training Manager Brett McCallum
