New centre aims for excellence
Volume 11, No. 47, July 13, 2006

ADF military and civilian personnel can expect healthier and safer workplaces following the establishment of the Defence Centre for Occupational Health (DCOH).

At the centre’s launch, Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence Bruce Billson said health and safety for military and civilian personnel was a top priority. “This dedicated new centre aims to prevent health problems and tackle both short and long-term health challenges,” he said.

The centre, located at Canberra’s Brindabella Park, is a small organisation of OHS professionals and administrative support that eventually will have the capacity to draw in expertise as and when needed.
Mr Billson said the ADF was a large and diverse organisation and much of its core business, including military operations and exercises, carried an element of risk. “Those put in harm’s way in the service of our nation must be supported by an organisation continually striving for excellence in occupational health and safety management.”

Director-General OHS and Compensation Steven Grzeskowiak said the centre aimed to prevent occupational illness, disease and injury through effective application of hazard identification, risk management principles and engagement with people.

“This includes our military members, civilian employees, reservists, cadets, visitors, contractors, and members of the public affected by our activities,” he said. “This easily exceeds 100,000 people at any given time.”