Gordon Adams-Worker Return to Work - AME Systems Pty Lty

AME Systems is the leading Australian owned manufacturer of quality electrical wiring harness, power and signal distribution systems for heavy transport, automobiles, military equipment, special purpose vehicles, motorcycles, marine craft, aircraft and fixed electrical plant.

Describe your job prior to your injury.

My work involved the many facets of the sub-assembly of wiring harnesses in the Pre-Assembly Area here at AME Systems. This involved totally hands on work, something in which I have always enjoyed and taken great personal pride, including fitting seals to cable, tubing cables, variacing terminals to cables, cutting tube, cutting heatshrink, fitting heatshrink as well as hand crimping and the list goes on. All the while, maintaining the highest quality of workmanship possible.

How were you injured and what was your injury?

While handcrimping the deutsch terminal, as the air tool was not working, I partially tore the ligament in my right arm about 2 inches down from my elbow.

Describe the job you do now (including employer if different).

I am now working in the administration section of AME Systems, updating computer data and other administrative duties as required.

What were the hardest and best things about returning to work?

Being right handed the hardest thing has been learning to work left handed. Coping with the pain brought about from this type of injury was difficult as well. I found after a little while I was able to adapt to my situation. The best thing is being actively involved at work, albeit limited, and knowing I am being looked after during my recovery. Socialising with friends and work colleagues during breaks has given me a positive boost as well.

What do you think helped you most to return to work and get your life back?

I think a positive attitude is a priority. With good medical advice, faith in one's ability and a well thought out plan to deal with recovery from the injury, this has assisted my progress. I might also mention having support from friends, family, medical staff and work colleagues is very beneficial.

What advice would you give other injured workers?

Initially accept you have an injury, find out the best way to deal with it both medically and physically through good advice, stay positive, believe in yourself, and accept the support of your peers.

*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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