Sun Metals Corporation

Due to the nature of the work at the zinc refinery, position descriptions are regularly monitored and job tasks analysed in an effort to identify and reduce any likelihood of an injury resulting from manual tasks. If an injury does occur, the position is marked for review and actions taken to rectify and resolve the problem.

Sun Metals keep employees informed of their reporting requirements and what they should do in case of an injury with regular training. Training days are held once a week over an eight-week block to ensure all employees are able to attend, regardless of varying shifts. These training rounds are held on average six times per each year.

The training program also includes employee education on Sun Metals processes, workplace injuries, rehabilitation and returning to work. Frequent Toolbox talks are incorporated into the day to day operation of the business and are used to disseminate injury prevention strategies.

Notably, Sun Metals have a rehabilitation and return to work process for all injuries, both at work and non-work related. When an injury occurs, a representative from Sun Metals attends the doctor’s appointments with the injured person, and together they immediately work to develop a rehabilitation and return to work plan. In most instances, this occurs before a claim is even lodged with WorkCover. While the worker is undertaking rehabilitation, the Workplace Health and Safety team get involved and meet regularly with the worker.

When the worker is ready to return to work, the rehabilitation coordinators work with area managers and superintendants to influence shifts, department placing and rosters. Often temporary positions are developed, some short term and others long term, which greatly assists in the successful return to work of an injured employee.

If training is required, injured workers are trained and mentored for the particular role at the same time as recovering from their injury. The Workplace Health and Safety team maintain regular contact with the worker and their supervisor to obtain feedback regarding the workers’ progress. Any concerns are quickly identified and steps taken to rectify and resolve matters to everyone’s satisfaction.

As a result of these initiatives, Sun Metals’ premium rate is forecast to be reduced from 1.825 to 1.327, well below the industry rate of 1.521, resulting in significant savings for their policy.

Sun Metals Corporation have been named as a finalist in the Employer Achievement Award for Rehabilitation and Return to Work - Small/med employer category as part of the Q-COMP Return to work Awards 2011. View a short film regarding their nomination here.