SafeWork SA compliance campaign targets childcare centres and schools

SafeWork SA Compliance Campaign Targets Childcare Centres and Schools

SafeWork SA inspectors are visiting childcare centres and schools across metropolitan and regional South Australia to ensure playground operators manage risks associated with creating a safe play environment for children. The SafeWork SA compliance campaign follows a similar approach taken in previous state-wide initiatives targeting workplace hazards.

This state-wide compliance campaign aims to ensure kids play in a safe environment free from hazardous conditions and equipment failures.

What the Audits Will Cover

The Regulator said the audits will determine whether childcare centres and schools have put in place measures to protect children from injury. These checks include regular maintenance reviews of playground equipment, fencing, and electrical fittings connected to on-site facilities.

Operators managing outdoor play spaces should also review electrical safety near shade structures, electrical connections for lighting, and electrical wiring feeding into adjoining buildings, since these hazardous elements often sit close to children's play zones.

Managing Risk and Health Obligations

Playground operators will be trained to ensure they are informed of their work health and safety obligations and how to appropriately manage risk. Understanding health responsibilities under current regulation helps operators reduce exposure to hazardous conditions before an incident occurs.

Managing these risks effectively requires ongoing attention rather than a one-off check, particularly where electrical infrastructure, shade sails, or aging equipment may pose a hidden risk to health and safety.

Organisations looking to strengthen their internal processes may find it useful to review a structured objectives and targets policy alongside a related objectives and targets register to track compliance progress over time.

Broader Context of SafeWork SA Campaigns

This initiative follows other targeted efforts, including a recent compliance campaign focused on mobile plants, machinery, and vehicles, demonstrating SafeWork SA's ongoing commitment to reducing risks across varied sectors. Similar programs, such as the NHVR's safety campaign targeting construction and waste sectors, reflect a national trend toward proactive site inspections.

Employers and facility managers seeking further guidance on obligations can attend the Workplace Health and Safety Show for practical insights into current compliance expectations.

Source: SafeWork SA