Shaping an innovative safety-focused workforce

Thiess’ Justin Rasmussen is helping embed a culture where everyone has the authority to speak up and act if they see something unsafe.

An Excavator/Drill Maintenance Supervisor at Thiess’ QCoal Northern Hub operations in the Bowen Basin, Queensland, Justin is focused on empowering his team to find safer ways of working.

“I constantly challenge my team to not accept the status quo. and to always look for more efficient ways of working,” said Justin.

“By focusing on safety and consistency, we can improve the quality and reliability of our fleet.”

Justin, who commenced with Thiess as a diesel fitter in 2014, currently leads the QCoal field crew who maintain the fleets of excavators, drills and the crushing and screening plant.

He manages day-to-day crew, shutdown and breakdown coordination.

In 2019, Justin was recognised with a Thiess Safety Leadership Award for his innovative two-button excavator access solution.

The practical design tackled the risks associated with access ladder systems – specifically the positioning of operators when raising and lowering equipment.

“It was a great recognition of the hard work and innovation that all of our team contributed towards,” said Justin.

“The modification ensures operators are completely removed from the line of fire, eliminating the risk of a serious incident.”

As an experienced leader, Justin acknowledges the importance of team engagement by involving workers in regular safety discussions, encouraging and valuing their participation.

“I lead our One HSE Culture framework and behaviours by giving everyone the authority to speak up and have their opinion heard,” he said.

“We all have the right to go home safely to our families at the end of each week.”