Recently members have raised concerns about staffing levels and workload issues at Emmaus.

Workloads can be a serious safety issue for workers in aged care and can lead to unsafe practices, workplace stress and accidents/injuries. Every employer must, as far as is reasonably practicable, eliminate (or failing that, minimise) risks to health and safety arising from the work.

If you are experiencing excessive workloads which are leading to, for example, not having breaks, working ‘short’ on some shifts, or not getting through your duty list:

1. you should first raise the issue with your immediate supervisor with the aim to find a solution
2. if a solution cannot be identified and implemented the matter can then be escalated to senior management
3. maintain a record. In order to provide your employer with examples of workload issues, you are encouraged to record incidents using the diary at this link or contact your local Organiser Karen Wiles on 0408 164 519.

Health and safety at work is a union issue, and it’s only with union members working together that issues get resolved. If you know someone who hasn’t yet joined the HSU, they can join here www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.