Workplace Culture and Organisation
A common reaction from farmers and horticulturists after an
injury or accident has occurred, is just not understanding
how it could have happened. The 'how'
usually comes down to an aspect of workplace culture or
organisation.
Think about your own agribusiness when reflecting on the
following aspects of workplace culture and organisation that can
contribute to accidents, injuries and even fatalities:
Workplace Culture
- Injury prevention is not incorporated into the property's
business plan and goals.
- Lack of management, leadership and involvement in employer and
employee relationship.
- Low priority given to reducing the potential for injury
compared to other business needs.
- Insufficient resources made available for injury prevention
activities.
- Reporting of injuries and 'near misses' is not undertaken or
encourages.
- Existence of myths about workplaces injuries.
Workplace Organisation
- Workload and organisation - long hours, lack of
prioritisation.
- Physical and environmental conditions in which people have to
work, eg. milking sheds too small for herd size, 'stuff' lying
around because there is no storage place for it.
- Lack of systems or policies, which encourage high risk working
practices.
- Work is seldom monitored and therefore feedback on work habits
is rare.
- Lack of clear policies and systems for staff.
- Repetitive work, eg. changing cups for a large herd for long
periods of time.
- No-bring up system for maintenance.
- No system of regular contact for those working alone.