Business Toolbox

The significance of workplace health and safety 

WHS is not only a moral obligation but a legal requirement for Australian businesses. Prioritising WHS is crucial for safeguarding the wellbeing of employees, contractors and visitors.  

Maintaining a safe and healthy work environment enhances productivity, reduces absenteeism, and minimises the risk of costly accidents or incidents. By demonstrating a commitment to WHS, businesses can build a solid reputation and differentiate themselves in the highly competitive tendering market. 

How to incorporate WHS in tender applications 

Integrating WHS considerations into your tender application can significantly enhance your chances of success. The first step is to review the tender documentation for any specific WHS requirements. Here are some key points to consider: 

• Pre-qualification questionnaire: A pre-qualification questionnaire provides an overview of the status of your health and safety management system. It is important to answer the questions honestly, even if certain elements do not apply to your scope of work. Tenderers will be required to verify their responses by providing evidence of their ability and capacity. By submitting the tender and questionnaire, the tenderer acknowledges and confirms all details provided and verifying documents are accurate. 
• Compliance with regulations: Ensure that your business complies with all relevant WHS legislation, codes of practice and industry standards. Familiarise yourself with the specific WHS requirements outlined in the tender documents and clearly address how your business meets or exceeds them. 
• Risk assessment and management: Demonstrate your commitment to identifying and managing workplace risks effectively. Conduct comprehensive risk assessments, implement control measures, and provide evidence of ongoing monitoring and improvement. Highlight your safety procedures, training programs and emergency response protocols. Businesses should also provide evidence of any relevant certifications or training they have received, such as ISO 45001 or safety training for employees. 
• Safety culture and employee engagement: Emphasise the importance of your strong safety culture. Detail how you foster employee engagement, provide regular training, encourage reporting of hazards or incidents, and actively involve workers in WHS decision-making processes. Showcase any relevant certifications, awards or recognition your business has received for its commitment to WHS. 
• Continuous improvement: Highlight your commitment to continuous improvement in WHS performance. Outline how you monitor and review your WHS systems, gather feedback from employees, and use that information to make meaningful improvements. Mention any industry best practices you follow and your willingness to adapt to changing regulations and emerging risks. 

Collaborating with partners and subcontractors 

In the tendering process, it is also crucial to evaluate the WHS practices of potential partners and subcontractors. Consider their track record, previous WHS performance and their commitment to maintaining high standards.  

Incorporating robust WHS practices can contribute to successful tender outcomes. 

Engaging with reputable and safety-focused partners demonstrates your commitment to WHS throughout the entire supply chain, enhancing your tender submission. 

Successful outcomes 

Winning tenders requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses both commercial competitiveness and a strong commitment to WHS. By prioritising WHS in your tender applications, you not only meet legal requirements but also demonstrate a genuine concern for the wellbeing of your employees and stakeholders.  

A robust WHS framework ensures a safe work environment, enhances productivity and positions your business as a responsible and reliable partner. So, make WHS an integral part of your tendering strategy and pave the way for long-term success.