Tiger team on prowl forOH&S views

A RECENT review by Management Services - ACT, of Air Force Occupational Health and Safety highlighted a number of areas of concern that require immediate attention.

In particular the review highlighted as a major issue the fact that although higher level Defence OH&S policy exists, there is not a coordinated OH&S system in Air Force for implementation of that policy.

On September 22, CAF appointed a five-person “Tiger Team” to develop a suitable system for use by Air Force personnel in both normal day-to-day operations and while deployed.

The team comprises Wing Commander Ian Farnsworth, Squadron Leader Neil Sanderson, Flight Lieutenant Robert Blackford, Warrant Officer Phillip Berkhout and Warrant Officer Colin Davidson.

The team will consult widely and invites input from all personnel by Air Force email.

Of particular interest to the team are suggestions on how the Air Force OH&S system can best cater for the needs of all personnel.

The team seeks views on information sharing, defined OH&S responsibilities, provision of specialist advice, auditing, ensuring system compliance, creation of an improved safety culture, and delivering safety in operational and deployed environments.

The team will report to CAF during December for implementation of the policy in early 2004.

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