When it comes to Australia’s workforce, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD’s) are a leading work health and safety issue.1 For example, from 2021–2022, 13.7% of serious workers’ compensation claims were for WMSD according to Safe Work Australia (Safe Work Australia 2023). Musculoskeletal injuries also represent most of our total injury count within BHP Operational Services (OS) Maintenance.  

The OS Maintenance Redesign Team was established in 2020 to effectively assess and respond to injuries with practical and replicable initiatives, which aim to address the root cause of WMSD issues and minimise the opportunity for recurrence. The OS Maintenance Redesign Team is composed of subject matter experts, utilising their trade experience to ensure the ‘right tool for the right job’ is provided and, importantly, without disrupting efficient workflows. The OS Maintenance Redesign Team works with internal and external stakeholders to design or supply a ‘concept’ (i.e., a prototype or idea) for trial on-site and, post-feedback and endorsement. 

An example of one of the initiatives the OS Maintenance Redesign Team successfully collaborated on relates to the OS Mobile Workshop in Goonyella, Queensland. Bob (pictured below) was previously injured installing a heavy shackle above his head. In response, the OS Maintenance Redesign Team facilitated the roll-out of lightweight slings and shackles. This is just one of the 400 unique initiatives delivered over the last four years.   

Bob from the OS Mobile Workshop in Goonyella, Queensland