St John WA representative wins at Work Health and Safety Excellence Awards

Winners of the Work Health and Safety Excellence Awards 2023 were announced at Optus Stadium last week, with St John WA’s Rob Curtis winning Health and Safety Representative of the Year.

The prestigious awards recognise outstanding innovations and solutions to specific workplace health and safety issues by individuals, groups or organisations.

Rob’s award was for “effectively advocating for the health and safety of his fellow workers, including championing numerous safety initiatives applied across St John”.

In his role as a health and safety representative (HSR), Rob has raised and championed numerous safety initiatives across St John, including manual handling techniques, driver safety training, and violence prevention strategies – all with a singular focus on safeguarding his colleagues.

He actively participates in safety meetings, initiatives, and public awareness campaigns, enhancing communication within the organisation.

In the past year, Rob has led critical projects, ensuring worker and patient safety were key considerations in the development of the Complex Patient Ambulance, revising emergency driving procedures and fostering collaborations with ambulance services nationwide.

Rob’s dedication has resulted in a healthy and safe workplace, with improved procedures and equipment, through consultation and collaboration.

Acting WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North congratulated the award winners on their commitment to workplace health and safety.

“My sincere congratulations to all the award winners on your commitment to the health and safety of all Western Australian workers,” she said.

“This year’s winners were chosen from a group of 25 excellent finalists that were in turn chosen from a pool of 65 impressive nominations.

“These awards recognise outstanding health and safety management, solutions and innovations in workplaces across both resources and general industries.

“This year’s finalists have been of a very high standard to which all workplaces can aspire, and I encourage anyone who has an interest in workplace health and safety to begin considering a nomination for next year’s awards.”

Rob will be on the cover of an upcoming Safetywise Magazine which is distributed to all major companies in WA.

He will also serve as a Department of Mines, Industrial Regulations and Safety health and safety representative ambassador for the next 12 months.