Webinar Replay: Insights from a WHS Veteran: Key Learnings For Successfully Managing Employee Health

What an absolute privilege it was to host Andrew Wilson, Director of Work Health & Safety at Blackmores Group in a recent webinar on workplace safety. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, he was the man for the job.

Andrew’s insights reveal that effective workplace safety is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires adaptable communication, proactive interventions, and a commitment to holistic wellness.

We distilled the key insights from speaking with Andrew into three main takeaways:

1. Connect through communication and empathy

Safety leaders can develop and embrace workplace safety by enhancing skills in:

• Adaptable language and style: Tailor your messages to resonate across generations and cultures, breaking down barriers with empathy and understanding.
• “Look, listen, and act” mindset: Safety requires agility – reacting thoughtfully to ensure both your own safety and that of others. Recognise that common sense and safety awareness can vary culturally.
• Localised training: Use visuals, practical demonstrations, and language translators to ensure safety practices are understood and actionable for all employees.

2. Proactively reduce workplace injuries with combined programs

The following interventions are useful for reducing musculoskeletal and psychosocial risks in workplaces:

• Early Intervention Programs: Incorporate onsite and offsite support, such as stretching routines, ergonomic training, and proactive injury prevention measures.
• Triage Support: Provide quick access to external care, including scans, doctor consultations, and clear directives for treatment.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Extend support beyond the workplace with tools that address both work-related and personal challenges, ensuring accessibility for employees and their families.

3. Embrace a holistic vision of safety
Safety is not limited to physical injuries—it encompasses mental, environmental, and emotional wellbeing. A holistic approach ensures workers are supported at every level:

• Proactive over reactive: Address potential risks before they escalate. Bring in experts like physiotherapists (through an early intervention program) to help prevent injuries.
• Integrated wellness systems: Combine early intervention, triage, and EAP to provide a comprehensive, holistic solution for the workforce.
• Break the stigma of EAP: Promote EAP as a comprehensive tool for mental health, family support, and everyday challenges.
• Whole-person approach: Recognise that employees bring their whole selves to work. Offer services that address their diverse needs, building trust and resilience.

So what is the key to safety success?: Communication and collaboration
Effective safety programs thrive on open communication and collaboration. Engage with workers to understand their needs, gather feedback, and ensure continuous improvement. By embedding a culture of safety and wellness, leaders can future-proof processes and create workplaces where everyone feels supported, valued, and safe.

Access the full replay here: