WHY TEST?
Safety
First and foremost the priority is and must be to provide a safe environment in the workplace for yourself, your employees, your customers or any independent Contractors working on your premises… In short, anyone who enters your place of work. Faulty electrical appliances can spell big trouble in the workplace. When a work environment becomes unsafe for employees, of course the chances and incidents of injury grow. Protect your staff, your customers, your Contractors…..protect yourself!
Legality
Occupational Health & Safety Act 2004 (Section 21), (1) states: ‘An employer must, so far as is reasonably practicable, provide and maintain for employees of the employer a working environment that is safe and without risks to health’. (Section 21) (2) goes on to outline the employer responsibilities, of which the vast majority fall under the requirement to ‘maintain’ plant and equipment. Portable electrical appliances fall under this.
(Section 21) (4) goes on to state ‘An offence against subsection (1) is an indictable offence’
A National Test & Tag Electrical Safety Compliance Management Program will protect against any unfortunate accidents and subsequent legalities.
A proven history of company compliance to OH&S laws will ensure positive relationships with government agencies such as the Work Safe governing body. In accumulating violations of government safety standards, your business will be more closely monitored by Work Safe Inspectors and be susceptible to ever increasing severe penalties involving fines or licensure loss.
For more information related to employer responsibilities, Work Safe distributes a free CDROM, 'Managing Safety in Your Workplace.'
Asset Management
With a regular and managed Asset Register compiled and forwarded to you from us after each testing phase enables you to better track your number of assets and their movements within your Company framework. The Asset Register will also assist you in forecasting your future OH&S costs
Litigation
Faulty electrical appliances could result in costly and time-consuming litigation disputes with employees. If an employee were to suffer electric shock or burns because your company's work area didn't carry out necessary testing you may find yourself embroiled in a lengthy lawsuit. Clients and Independent Contractors can also take legal action if your unsafe workplace results in injury.
Cost
A common misconception is that implementing and maintaining a safe workplace is expensive.
An employee compensation claim, lawyer fees and lost work due to potential loss of license would be financially devastating for your business. In comparison, testing your portable electric appliances, safety switches, etc. is a far cheaper and more cost-effective option.
Reputation
By creating and instilling a strong safety message within your Business you enhance your company's reputation and standing within the market-place. Your employees will also feel that Management has a genuine concern for their well-being. On the flipside, potential clients or employees are less likely to align themselves with businesses known for unsafe business practices.