WorkSafe urges workplaces to implement proper safety measures when conducting work in remote areas

Feb 5th 2024 | Stephen Kariahe

WorkSafe urges workplaces to implement proper safety measures when conducting work in remote areas

WorkSafe urges workplaces to implement proper safety measures when conducting work in remote areas, reminding employers and employees to carefully consider all necessary precautions before heading into isolated locations. Workers who frequently travel to remote areas in Western Australia include miners, truck drivers, tour guides, farmers and geologists, each facing unique hazards depending on their industry.

Why Remote Work Requires Extra Safety Planning

Working in isolated locations exposes employees to hazards that rarely occur in a standard office or worksite. Limited access to emergency services, unpredictable terrain and unreliable communication networks can turn a minor incident into a serious one if proper remote and isolated work management plans are not in place.

Acting WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North reminded workplaces that they carry a responsibility under WHS regulations to provide a safe working environment for remote employees, regardless of how far they travel from base operations.

“While anyone who travels to the outback needs to consider safety when deciding what to take with them, we would particularly like to remind both employers and workers that they have responsibilities under workplace health and safety laws,” Ms North said.

Employer Responsibilities Under WHS Regulations

Employers must identify potential hazards before dispatching staff into remote or isolated settings. This includes reviewing existing OHS procedures, confirming access to communication devices and establishing control measures suited to each specific worksite.

Conduct a risk assessment covering environmental, physical and psychological hazards
Establish regular check-in procedures for lone or isolated workers
Provide access to emergency services contact details and equipment
Supply adequate resources, including first aid kits, water and communication tools
Review and update control measures as conditions change

Businesses operating across multiple sites should also consider how their OHS management systems address remote work risks consistently, rather than relying on ad hoc arrangements at each location.

What Remote Workers Should Do Before Departing

Employees preparing for remote assignments should confirm they understand the control measures put in place by their employer and know how to raise concerns if hazards are identified on site. Carrying sufficient supplies, informing colleagues of travel plans and maintaining scheduled contact all reduce risk significantly.

Health outcomes for isolated workers depend heavily on preparation. A worker stranded without adequate resources faces far greater danger than one who has followed established procedures and stayed in contact with support services throughout their trip.

Building a Culture of Safety for Isolated Work

Organisations that prioritise health and safety across remote operations tend to see fewer incidents and faster response times when problems do occur. This starts with clear documentation, consistent training and accessible support services for anyone working away from a fixed base.

For workplaces wanting to strengthen their approach, SafetyDocs offers a Remote or Isolated Work Policy and a Remote & Isolated Work Plan to help employers formalise their procedures. New Zealand businesses can also access a dedicated Remote Isolated Work Plan for NZ workplaces.

Employers should also consider whether a Safe Work Method Statement is required for specific remote tasks, particularly where high-risk activities are involved.

WorkSafe urges workplaces to implement proper safety measures when conducting work in remote areas