Hazards, incidents and injuries
Injuries and illnesses are preventable, our process for preventing injuries and illnesses involves:
- identifying and managing health and safety risks
- reporting when a hazard, near miss (an incident that could have resulted in injury, illness or danger to health) or injury occurs to ensure an investigation is completed and action is taken to eliminate the chance of injury or reoccurrence and to make our workplace safe.
Reporting incidents is required under NSW Work Health and Safety legislation. Click here for more information about reporting work place incidents and injuries. The University's Certificates of Currency are listed under Resources at the bottom of the page.
It is the responsibility of the person involved in the incident, or the person who identified the hazard to use the online incident reporting system to report hazards, near misses or injuries. This system ensures the people responsible receive notification quickly so that an investigation can be completed and action taken to reduce the risk. The Health, Safety and Wellbeing Team are also notified so they can follow up and provide assistance when required.
Information for students
It is also important for students to report injuries, illnesses, hazards and near misses as soon as possible. Students can access AIMS to log a health and safety incident report. Alternatively, email the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Team at healthandsafety@newcastle.edu.au or call 4033 9999 and select number 5 for assistance and support. Further information about Student Health and Safety can be found here.
Log an incident report online
Non-work related illnesses and injuries
There is a range of support available if you have a non-work related illness or injury that impacts on your ability to carry out the inherent requirements of your role. Please see the Health and Safety Guideline (HSG) 5.5: Non-workers compensation illnesses and injuries for full details.
- Talk to your Supervisor about your illness or injury and how it is impacted by the regular work environment or substantive duties.
- Contact usafe@newcastle.edu.au for a confidential conversation.
With your consent, the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Team will liaise with you and your treatment providers to seek feedback on restrictions and support to ensure a safe and sustainable return to work. Where practical, the Team will work to develop a Well to Work Plan. This plan may include working reduced hours for a period of time, mobility aids and equipment.
You may also be able to access incapacity benefits from UniSuper, see their webpage for more information or call them directly on 1800 331 685.
For conditions that will last for greater than two years external providers, such as the Job Access Employment Assistance Fund (EAF), may be engaged to offer assistance and support.
Sexual assault, sexual harassment and sex-based harassment
The University of Newcastle is committed to creating a safe and respectful culture on our campuses, in our online spaces and in our wider community.
The University provides training and support to staff to ensure we are creating a safer and more respectful workplace.
Information is available for both staff and students on support and reporting sexual assault, sexual harassment and sex-based harassment.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.