Fit for Work – Workplace Health and Safety

WHAT DOES “FIT FOR WORK” MEAN?

Being fit for work means an individual is in a condition that allows them to perform their duties safely, competently, and without risk to themselves or others.

Fitness for work can be affected by fatigue, injury, illness, stress, or the use of drugs and alcohol. These factors must be identified and managed before starting work.

FITNESS FOR WORK REQUIREMENTS

Before commencing work, workers must demonstrate they are fit for duty. This may include declarations confirming they are adequately rested, free from impairment and capable of performing their role safely.

Depending on site requirements, this may also involve:

• Drug and alcohol testing
• Medical assessments
• Functional capacity evaluations

WORKER RESPONSIBILITIES

All workers are responsible for managing factors that may affect their fitness for work. This includes:

• Maintaining an appropriate level of personal fitness for the role
• Reporting any injury, illness, fatigue, or condition that may impact performance
• Disclosing the use of medication, drugs, or alcohol where relevant
• Advising supervisors if they become unfit during a shift
• Complying with workplace and client fit for work policies
• Early communication is critical to prevent incidents and ensure safe work practices.

MANAGING RISK ON SITE

Supervisors and workers must take action if there are concerns about someone’s fitness for work.

If a worker appears unfit, this must be reported and managed immediately to reduce risk. Workers should also seek support if personal factors are impacting their ability to work safely.

CONSEQUENCES OF NON-COMPLIANCE

Failure to comply with fit for work requirements may result in disciplinary action, including removal from site or termination.

Workers should also be aware that involvement in an incident while under the influence of drugs or alcohol may impact workers’ compensation or legal claims.

QUICK QUIZ

1. What does “fit for work”mean?
2. What factors can affect your fitness for work?
3. What should you do if you are not fit to start or continue work?
4. Why is it important to report concerns about others?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Being fit for work means being physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of performing tasks safely.
• Factors such as fatigue, stress, illness, and drugs or alcohol can impact safety.
• Workers must declare and manage their fitness for work.
• Supervisors must be informed of any condition affecting performance.
• Unfit workers create a risk to themselves and others on site.