How to keep your small business team safe at work
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According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics,
In Australia, 43% of workplace injuries occur among small business workers, particularly in high-risk industries such as construction, agriculture, mining, transport, manufacturing, and warehousing.
However, small businesses can take practical steps to reduce these risks and enjoy key benefits, including:
- Increased productivity
- Lower insurance premiums
- Fewer sick or injury-related absences
- Improved staff morale and retention
- Reduced costs for training replacement workers
According to Safe Work Australia, workplace safety doesn’t have to be costly or complicated. With the right guidance and proactive measures
Identifying hazards in the workplace
If you’ve noticed a potential risk, near miss, or recurring safety concern — such as slips, trips, or falls — it’s important to take action. Start by observing employees as they perform the related tasks, and gather their insights to understand where issues occur and why they need to be addressed. This proactive approach helps identify underlying causes and prevents future incidents before they happen.
Be open to suggestions as to how & keep these in mind:
- The seriousness of the risk and possible injuries
- Effectiveness of the current control measures in place, if any
- Possible actions to minimise the risk level
- Urgency of risk management.
Developing & rolling out safer work systems
Business Queensland recommends the following steps for developing and implementing effective workplace health and safety systems:
- Secure strong commitment from management.
- Consult with employees to identify risks and practical solutions.
- Develop and regularly update safe work procedures.
- Provide training, refreshers, and proper supervision.
- Establish a clear risk management framework.
- Implement a process for reporting near misses, incidents, and accidents, including follow-up actions.
- Understand your obligations under workers’ compensation laws and return-to-work programs.
It’s important to address both physical and psychosocial risks, including for remote or travelling employees. Psychosocial risks relate to factors that may impact an employee’s mental health and wellbeing. Employers should create clear policies and procedures to manage risks associated with:
- Working early or late hours
- Working alone, remotely, or at night
- Work-related travel
- Remote or home-based work
- Workplace bullying and harassment
By adopting a proactive, people-first approach, businesses can build safer, more supportive workplaces that protect both physical and mental health.
Practical Risk Control Measures for a Safer Workplace
As part of your risk management plan, implementing effective control measures can significantly reduce workplace hazards. Consider including the following actions to strengthen your safety approach:
- Introduce shorter shifts or longer rest breaks to reduce fatigue and improve focus.
- Relocate work processes to less-crowded or safer areas to minimise hazards.
- Modify procedures to eliminate or reduce injury risks wherever possible.
- Identify high-risk roles and employees, and provide targeted training and on-site support.
- Use clear signage to remind staff of potential risks and safety procedures.
- Reward and recognise employees who demonstrate safe work practices.
- Conduct regular emergency drills to ensure staff are prepared for unexpected situations.
By incorporating these proactive measures, small businesses can create safer environments, strengthen compliance, and foster a culture of care and responsibility.
Understanding Your Responsibilities as a PCBU
As a small business owner or operator, you are considered a PCBU — a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking. This means you hold the primary duty of care for the health and safety of workers on-site, in transit, or working remotely, as well as any visitors affected by your business activities.
According to Safe Work Australia, a PCBU must, as far as reasonably practicable, ensure:
- A safe and healthy work environment
- All plant and structures are safe, maintained, and fit for use
- Safe systems of work are in place and followed
- Equipment, materials, and substances are handled and stored safely
- Adequate amenities (such as washrooms, lockers, and dining areas) are available and up to standard
- Workers receive proper training, information, and supervision
- Regular monitoring of workers’ health and workplace conditions
- Any accommodation provided is safe and well-maintained
The Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, developed by Safe Work Australia, form the framework for workplace safety across the country. Each state and territory enforces these laws under its own regulations — so it’s important to review the requirements specific to your location.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation Requirements
Every Australian state and territory has its own laws governing workers’ compensation, which is mandatory for all employers. This applies to all types of employees — whether full-time, part-time, casual, apprentices, or those engaged under written or verbal contracts.
Workers’ compensation provides essential protection for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. According to the Insurance Council of Australia, eligible workers may receive weekly wage benefits, medical and hospital expenses, rehabilitation support, replacement personal items, and a lump-sum payment in cases of permanent impairment.
Your insurance premium is generally determined by:
- The total wages paid to employees
- The industry or sector in which your business operates
- Your company’s claims history
At ASR Insurances, we help employers understand their obligations and find the best-fit workers’ compensation solution. Whether you’re reviewing an existing policy or arranging new coverage, our experts ensure your business stays compliant and your employees are protected.
