NECA SA would like to acknowledge the achievements of our member, D&R Electrical and their employee James Munt who have been nominated as a finalist in the WorkCoverSA Recovery and Return to Work Awards for 2011.

The awards aim to inspire and motivate people to achieve outstanding results in remaining at or returning to work, and reward the efforts of injured workers, employers and others who have gone the extra mile.

Please see below to read James’ story and the management of his return to work.

We at NECA SA wish James and his employer the best of luck at the awards which will be announced at the official ceremony on Tuesday 13 September at the Adelaide Convention Centre.

Remain at work achievement – James Munt and D&R Electrical

Apprentice electrician James Munt was up a ladder helping another electrician install 3 phase power to a spray booth, when he came into contact with a hidden live junction box. The electric shock was so strong it threw him backwards with force, dislocating his shoulder.

In a lot of pain, James was rushed by ambulance to hospital where his shoulder was treated and he was instructed to rest and participate in physiotherapy. Within a week James was back at work on light duties installing power points and smoke detectors.

His employer D&R Electrical have been supportive of his rehabilitation, giving him light duties initially with the progression back to full duties over time, and allowing him time off to attend physiotherapy appointments.

In addition, James’ family keenly supported his return to work. His mother says the support provided by his employer was excellent and that his employer kept in contact with the family, discussing the return to work plan and how it was being implemented. James was made to feel valuable to the organisation which she believes aided his recovery.

As a young apprentice it came as quite a shock that he suffered a workplace injury. Like many young people James thought himself invincible. He now uses his personal experience to create awareness of workplace safety and to influence his peers.

His accident has resulted in a change of culture throughout the organisation and workers are now more aware of safety and the ways they can stay safe at work.

As a result of the accident, James has been able to work with his employer to improve safety in the workplace, including instigating a policy where all work dealing with concealed wires must be undertaken in pairs. James sets an example for safety awareness that has been taken on by his colleagues.

James worked hard to get into an apprenticeship and was keen to hang onto it and get back to work as quickly and as safely as possible. He worked with his rehabilitation provider and his employer to ensure this happened. He understands how lucky he is to have an apprenticeship and has found a new appreciation of this since the accident.

James was highly motivated to remain at work and continue with his apprenticeship and was keen to get back to his Country Fire Service (CFS) duties and mates. Like many hills-dwellers he is also an active member of the CFS.

For more information, including the finalists stories, go to www.workcover.com/awards