QUBE Logistics (VIC) - QUBE Logistics (VIC)

QUBE Logistics is the largest and most progressive integrated port logistics provider in Australia In 2010, QUBE Logistics (VIC) developed and implemented a Safety Health & Environment Management Program to cover the wide range of operations conducted by the company. The program looks at all facets of daily operations including toolbox talks, safety meetings, injury management program, incident and hazard reporting and risk management processes as well as outlining a structured review program as part of “Best Be Safe” program. The implementation of the program has played an important role in the reduction of workplace injuries at QUBE Logistics (VIC).

Describe what your organisation does better or differently to others in the way they manage return to work compared to other organisations?

In April 2010, QUBE Logistics established a Safety Leadership Forum to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of QUBE Logistics Safety, Health & Environment performance at the various sites where work is performed, sharing knowledge of procedures, tools and experiences. 1. Agree on consistent “best practice” approaches. 2. Facilitate inputs and outputs to the SH&E Systems. 3. Share knowledge, providing factual and legal (OHS) advice. 4. Optimise deployment mechanisms. 5. Evaluate effectiveness of implementation. 6. Provide feedback. 7. Drive improvements. Through the Forum one of the innovative Return To Work to developed a “QUBE Logistics National Injury Management Kit” designed to provide employees with a procedure for care, treatment and to assist with a speedy Return To Work. QUBE Logistics is able to transfer the “Injury Management Kit” Nationally throughout our business and believe the Early Intervention Program is transferable into industries/organisations and has the following benefits: •providing a productive and supportive workplace •demonstrating management commitment •preventing long-term absence from the workplace and the development of chronic illness •reducing the adverse effects on co-workers of the injured worker •improving staff confidence and morale •increasing management involvement in the injury management process •increasing the probability of return to work •containing the cost of incapacity and in the long term, the premium •reducing indirect costs to your organisation such as lost productivity Safety is a core QUBE Logistics value. Our safety working practices and methods are industry leading and are designed to eliminate all accidents and injuries. POTA's impressive safety record is the result of senior management ensuring employees, contractors and visitors are correctly skilled, trained and briefed on safety. Implementing a successful program of early rehabilitation assistance requires sound policy, good communication and effective action. QUBE Logistics RTW policy and procedures outlines how we achieve those objectives, and the benefits of promoting early RTW assistance. "We recognise both managers and employees responsible for successful workplace rehabilitation, it is a matter of working together." We agree to consult with employees and their medical practitioner and where applicable, an employee representative prior to any arrangement for the return of any injured employee on suitable duties. The Return to Work Co-ordinator is available to discuss the Return to Work Program by appointment. Begin planning for RTW before the claim is lodged: - task analysis / job description - consultation with worker and supervisor

What is the secret to the success of your return to work initiative and/or as an employer?

Through Senior Management Championing • Define the vision / goals • Culture and communication • Resourcing • Rewarding and Incentivizing • Review incident data and know the business Preventative Measures Types of preventative measures to avoid are occurrence of an incident may include: • Changes to induction training / ongoing training • Changes to working procedures, SWMs, Standard Operating Procedures • Job redesign • Changes to the working environment • Modifications or maintenance to plant, machinery and equipment • Purchase of new equipment or plant • Future outsourcing of work Root Causes of Incidents Root causes fall into broad categories of behavioural, environmental and system. Some examples: • A person was not inducted trained or supervised correctly • Someone did not follow established procedures • Carelessness / haste in activity / not paying attention • Maintenance issues or plant / equipment failure • Contractor at fault • Procedures or processes had not taken into account the risk

Provide an example of a great return to work outcome or initiative your organisation has achieved/developed?

QUBE Logistics is recognising an injured worker’s level of motivation to return to work is influenced by workplace variables such as the presence or absence of support from managers and colleagues, flexible accommodation and the availability of suitable duties, and the employer’s willingness to invest in health and safety. Since January 2010 QUBE Logistics has seen significant improvements attributable to the system and safety performance including assisted 11 stay at or return to work following their workplace injury in the last 12 months results in 100% reduction in lost time injuries in the past 31 months and a reduction in 30% of WorkCover Premium 2011/2012.

Where possible please provide information that will support your entry, this could include return to work results.

RTW results as above Achieve: • Set expectations • Manage relationships • Influence the treating practitioners • Anticipate and resolve potential barriers “The First 3 Days” • First 3 days from injury is make or break time. • Not only does “intervention” need to occur in this phase, it needs to be quality intervention that will set positive expectations for success

*Disclaimer:
The publishing of entries on the WorkSafe Awards website and or/the granting of an award does not constitute any endorsement by WorkSafe Victoria of a product, method or service, or the occupational health and safety performance of the workplace. Monthly Champions must undergo expert review to progress through to the stringent validation and judging process and can only progress to the next stage of entry once WorkSafe are satisfied that the entry/entrant has met the relevant award category criteria and terms and condition of entry.

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