WorkCover NSW is encouraging employers and workers across all trades to visit the WorkCover stand at the 2008 National Tradesman’s Expo.

WorkCover NSW Chief Executive Officer, Jon Blackwell, said a team of experienced occupational health and safety experts will be on site to give practical advice on a range of industry and trade specific safety initiatives.

“Visitors to the WorkCover stand can receive free guidance material including the Small Business Safety Pack, a practical guide for businesses to help make their workplaces safer,” Mr Blackwell said.

“Tradesmen, contractors and owner-operators can also access an extensive range of WorkCover factsheets and safety Codes of Practice on issues such as falls prevention, asbestos removal and electrical hazards,” he said.

“Specialist advice about injury management, workers compensation issues and deemed worker provisions will be available to provide businesses with greater clarity around the employment status of workers and contractors.

“Business Advisory Officers will explain how small business operators may be eligible for individual rebates of up to $500 when they attend a WorkCover NSW workshop and then invest in workplace safety improvements,” Mr Blackwell said.

Information about competency certificates and licensing requirements in New South Wales as well as the national standard for licensing for persons performing high-risk work will also be available.

WorkCover assists businesses understand their workplace safety obligations through free advisory visits to worksites, provision of industry-based practical guidance material and education and awareness campaigns.

The Expo will be held at the Royal Hall of Industries and Hordern Pavilion, Fox Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park from Friday August 29 to Sunday August 31 for details visit www.ntx.com.au/sydney

More information about workplace safety, including a range of safety guidance material for a range of industries is available from the WorkCover website http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/ or by calling 13 10 50.

Media contact: Wendy McKenzie or John Kirby on 02 4321 5474 or 0413 186 799