What does it take to build a successful career in workplace health and safety? Emma Hines and Sarah Forte’s journeys into WHS leadership were shaped by unexpected opportunities, strong role models, and a passion for keeping workers safe.
In the weeks before International Women’s Day, we spoke to them and asked them to reflect on how they got started, what drives them, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
From healthcare to health and safety
Emma Hines is the Queensland Work Health and Safety Manager at Inghams Enterprises. During her earlier career as a nurse, Emma had the opportunity to work in rehabilitation and return to work. She cites that moment as pivotal in her career: “That role introduced her to the importance of health and safety and its vital role in the prevention of injuries.”Â
After that, Emma was offered a role as Health and Safety Coordinator, which was the start of my health and safety career. And he hasn’t looked back.Â
Emma looks back at her father as a great inspiration and role model. “He had a strong work ethic and a passion for his job. Throughout my childhood and early adulthood, he encouraged me to follow my dreams and to stay focused on my goals, no matter the obstacles or challenges faced.” Â
Emma advises women entering the Health and Safety profession to proactively engage with workers to learn processes. “Taking the time to listen to staff will go a long way in earning respect and getting them involved in the safety journey,” she says.Â
Emma advises, “Working in health and safety requires a positive attitude and the ability to communicate effectively.” She encourages women to challenge themselves and learn new skills: “Don’t be afraid of trying something new.”Â
“And, make connections and network, so you have the support of others to help you succeed in your career.”
From recruitment to health and safety leadership
Sarah Forte is the Director of Health, Safety, and Wellbeing at Goulburn Valley Health in Victoria. She started her career in health and safety by working in recruitment and OH&S for a labour-hire company while also working in hospitality. After this, Sarah worked for an Engineering company for 11 years, covering several portfolios of work simultaneously, one of which was OH&S. She recalls this period being logistically challenging due to some of the teams travelling and working in different locations throughout Australia and New Zealand.Â
Sarah joined Goulburn Valley Health in 2020. She believes healthcare is a sector with many opportunities and finds it rewarding to work with people who do “amazing work with patients and also in the non-clinical spaces”.Â
When asked about who has inspired her to “march forward” in her career, Sarah Forte cited the women in her family. “They have always inspired me”, she said. “My mother inspires me constantly with his amazing attitude that you should always give everything a go doesn’t matter who you are”. Sarah says the women in her family taught her that “no matter what the outcome, you will learn something from everything you do”.
Sarah’s advice for females entering the health and safety sector is to “put yourself out there and give it a go.” She believes that even the worst situation can teach you something.Â