Working Alone Survey
The Working Alone Survey was sent out to GAs and FAs on 9 August 2024 and closed on 22 August 2024. The survey results indicate that there are 4 main areas of concern for GAs and FAs when working alone during vacation periods. These are:
- the working alone risk assesment survey is not being done prior to holidays commencing
- there are no check in protocols set up for the GA/FA to check in with someone at the beginning of the day and at the end of the day
- GAs & FAs are worried about their personal safety while at work
- There is damage and vandalism done to school assets during the break period
The survey findings have been forwarded to the departments Work Health, Safety and Staff Wellbeing Directorate.
Meeting with Work Health, Safety and Staff Wellbeing Directorate
On 20 August the General Assistants Advisory Group met with representatives from the Departments Work, Health, Safety and Staff Wellbeing Directorate to discuss ongoing concerns around WHS issues.
The Advisory Group delegates were seeking a follow up around mulch in schools and clarification of the standards and certification required for using mulch. The Dept agreed to seek advice from the Environmental Protection Agency in relation to can and can’t be done in schools.
The Advisory Group discussed the results of the ‘Working Alone’ survey and a commitment to share the assessments across school settings.
Other areas for discussion were the development and updating of schools chemical registers by the GAs and the required training around this as well as mowing inclines greater than 15 degrees. Specific machinery is necessary to do this safely and risk assessments need to be carried out.
Time to Register for the GA Conferences
GA & FA Conference Information from the Department
The Department has forwarded the following information in relation to the GA and FA conferences to be held in October 2024. Please note there are contact details for inquiries in the information provided.
Conference Cost: The cost is $120.00 per participant, which will be recovered from their school. Please note that if you enroll but are a ‘no show’ or withdraw after the cut-off date, the school will still be charged.
Travel Costs: If your travel incurs additional costs, such as tolls or parking, please discuss this with your principal.
Conference Schedule:
Registration: 7:30 am
Start Time: 8:00 am
Conclusion: 3:30 pm
The day is fully catered.
Stay Updated: Follow us on the Learning Community for General Assistants and Farm Assistants to stay up to date with all the available information. We will also send out a reminder before the end of the term.
Endorsement and Attendance: The conference is fully endorsed by the Secretary – Murat Dizdar. Please have a conversation with your Principal if you are interested in attending.
MyPL Course Details: The course details can be found under NT02628 (this is the live link).
Your Industrial Staff
Sharny Chalmers
Industrial Officer
Peta Noke
Organiser
