As the cotton-picking season approaches, specialist agricultural insurer Achmea Australia is encouraging growers to (re)familiarise themselves with their legal obligations when employing seasonal workers.

Achmea Australia Farm Insurance Specialist Peta Argus said ahead of the picking season, it is important for growers to put in place measures to maintain a safe working environment, considering the increased risks associated with the influx of workers during this busy season.

“Firstly, consider the different types of workers you are looking to engage. These can include full-time, part-time, and casual employees, as well as contractors - each with different legal responsibilities,” said Peta.

“Looking after your most important asset – your workers – is not just a moral obligation but also a legal responsibility. Ensuring a safe workplace includes regularly assessing and managing operational risks within the farming business, maintaining farm machinery, and providing adequate training for all employees. By implementing these measures, farmers can create a safe working environment and minimise the occurrence of accidents or injuries.”

These and other topics are covered in the HR and WHS module of myBMP, Cotton Australia’s voluntary farm and environmental management program.

The module includes information, tools and resources covering the farm owner’s legal duties associated with staff employment. It also includes measures to help ensure a safe working environment is provided through the management and control of hazards and risks in the workplace.

Specialist agricultural insurer Achmea Australia supports Cotton Australia members through an insurance reward for growers who are certified in the myBMP program. Aligned with their purpose of keeping farmers farming, Achmea Australia proudly supports myBMP-certified growers as they are best practice-certified in workplace health and safety initiatives, thereby protecting themselves, their workers and their livelihoods.

To find out more about Achmea Australia’s purpose of keeping farmers farming, visit www.achmea.com.au, call 1800 724 214 or email [email protected]

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