KINNECT

This unfortunate situation (story linked below), in which 13 workers have been diagnosed with silicosis, is a startling reminder of how dangerous respirable crystalline silica is. Inhaled silica dust causes inflammation, which eventually leads to scarring (fibrosis) and hardening of the lung tissue, making it more difficult for the lungs to take in oxygen. Silicosis is a progressive disease, meaning the symptoms worsen over time, even if the person is no longer exposed to the dust and increases the risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Progressive Massive Fibrosis In addition to taking every precaution, a robust health surveillance program for those exposed to crystalline silica is vital. Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) Medicals, like those offered by KINNECT, monitor for changes in the lungs to determine whether current protection measures are sufficient and to diagnose any health issues as early as possible. https://lnkd.in/gZ6F5uHV

Imagine suddenly not being able to work. For many, this could make them feel purposeless, unhappy and alone. The physical or psychological injury would seem worse, too. Studies show that the longer an employee remains off work, the less chance they have of returning. Without a return to work plan, or what we now refer to as a “recover at work plan”, an employee may experience depression, poor health and isolation. An early and safe recovery at work supports physical recovery and provides employees with social cohesion and support mechanisms imperative for their mental well-being. This belief underpins our approach to workplace rehabilitation and has led KINNECT to become a signatory of the Health Benefits of Good Work Initiative. In the first video of our Ask an Expert series, Chief Medical Officer Dr Matt Brandt explains the Health Benefits of Good Work. https://lnkd.in/gyVuhqEC

To all our clients who employ (or are) plumbers, happy World Plumbing Day! Today is a great reminder to stay vigilant to protect the health and safety of these vital workers.

While the storm has passed, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred is causing some localised flooding in certain areas of the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast. All KINNECT clinics will be open today Monday 10 March. However, we understand that some clients may not be able to travel to appointments due to road closures. If your workers cannot attend their appointment today, please contact us as soon as possible on 1300 546 632 so that we can reschedule the appointment at no cost to your organisation. Stay safe everyone. If it's flooded - forget it!

⚠️ Client update: Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to impact Southeast Queensland and Northern New South Wales in the next 24 hours. We are actively monitoring the weather conditions, however, at this point, we anticipate that the following clinics will be open on Monday 10 March: - Sunshine Coast - Nundah - Woolloongabba - Gold Coast These weather conditions are unpredictable. Should any changes occur that impact your workers' ability to attend these offices, we will promptly update you and arrange alternative appointments for those workers at no cost to your organisation. Thank you for your support. We hope you; your colleagues and family stay safe this weekend.

It's probably no surprise that, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, approximately 74% of Australia's healthcare workforce are women.   KINNECT is fortunate to have a large, highly skilled and caring workforce of women across all disciplines and levels of the organisation who make an invaluable contribution to keeping people healthy, safe and productive.   Each day, they make a profound positive impact on the lives of others.   🎉 Tomorrow, Saturday 8 March, is International Women's Day. 🎊 We'd like to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt 'Thank you' and recognise the achievements of women, at KINNECT and around the world, in healthcare including workplace rehabilitation, occupational health, allied health, nursing, medicine and support services. For information on IWD: https://lnkd.in/dGX7T8X

🌩️ Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to impact South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales in the next 48-72 hours. Forecasts predict heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding, which may affect travel and safety. For the safety of KINNECT staff and our clients, the following KINNECT clinics will be closed on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 March. - Sunshine Coast - Nundah - Woolloongabba - Gold Coast KINNECT will reschedule ALL appointments booked at these locations. There will be no cost to clients for rescheduling.   We will continue to keep you informed of any changes and appreciate your understanding during this period: Should you have any concerns or queries, please contact us on 1300 546 632. Thank you for your support. We hope you, your colleagues and family stay safe this week.

QLD businesses - are you prepared to meet your obligations towards preventing sexual or gender-based harassment? As of 1 March, you must have a prevention plan in place. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has prepared a guide, template and examples to help you through the process. Take a look at their post below...

Every quarter, we gather our Team Leaders from around the country for a day of training, knowledge sharing, and... pizza making! Yes, that last one is new. But yesterday's Team Leader Day in Brisbane was the perfect example of the importance we place on keeping our KINNECTers highly skilled and happy. With teams dispersed around Australia, we firmly believe in the value of opportunities that enable us to meet face-to-face, share our challenges and successes (culinary and client-related), and learn something new. Thanks to our COO Amanda Johnston, CEO David Hughes and Chief People Officer Ashley Brett for supporting the day. Below we have Brett Heiner, Michael Vainer, Sima Gharibi, Jody Levine, Matthew Waide and Ashley Brett practicing their dough-tossing skills. #leadershipdevelopment #teamleaders #teammanagers #occupationalhealth #workplacerehabilitation

We take it as a huge compliment about our culture and the roles we offer when staff return to us. That's been the case for our Central Queensland Team Leader and Accredited Exercise Physiologist, Brett Heiner, who rejoined us last year after a break of several years. And we're thrilled to have him back as we expand our services and teams in the area. In today's illuminating People Story, Brett discusses his workplace rehabilitation and injury management career and why returning to regional Queensland has been a fantastic move for him professionally and personally. Read his story here: https://lnkd.in/ge6GpxeE