At Hi Fert, our workplace safety record has seen continued improvement during 2004. Our lost-time plus medically-treated injury frequency rate was 30.5 per million hours worked during 2002 and 13.0 in 2003 compared with 0 for 2004 YTD.
Definitions
LTIFR
Lost-time injury frequency rate - the number of lost-time injuries per million hours worked.
MTIFR
Medically-treated injury frequency rate - the number of medically-treated injuries per million hours worked.
Safety management
An ongoing emphasis on hazard identification and risk management at all sites has contributed to this positive trend. This has been supported by a strong focus on training and skill development across the Hi Fert workforce.
Key controls include:
The use of tarp-spreaders and portable ladders on all Hi Fert sites has removed the need for drivers to climb on their loads while securing loads of fertilizer.
In the light of recent security concerns relating to ammonium nitrate fertilizer, Hi Fert made the decision to exit this market completely. In the interests of community safety and employee security, Hi Fert plants carry no ammonium nitrate stocks and prominent perimeter signage reinforces the message.
Clear guidelines have been issued to customers advising against storage of fertilizer in silos, following recent incidents and concerns over the structural integrity of above ground fertilizer silos.
All Hi Fert sites continue to reinforce the Fitness For Work requirements for employees, contractors and visitors and this has been backed up by a program of random drug and alcohol testing.
The Hi Fert Management System has undergone major revision with a review of all key policies and procedures. The internet will provide a new level of access to the system across the Hi Fert business.
Crisis and Emergency Preparedness
Hi Fert has undertaken a review of its crisis and emergency exposure and response preparedness. This has resulted in a re-issue of policies and procedures and a re-assessment of site plans.
All sites now have trained Emergency Wardens and First Aiders. A comprehensive training program and simulation exercise has been prepared for the Hi Fert management team.
Health Programs
Melbourne based personnel participated in a Healthy Lifestyle program in 2004. In addition the Portland and Newcastle plants ran successful programs in conjunction with local medical practices. This program has had a very positive response from employees and will be extended to all Hi Fert personnel in 2005.
