Meet the Team - Safety Manager - Mick Gunthorpe
December 2025
At Thor’s Hammer, safety isn’t a box to tick; it is a culture we actively build every day. And at the centre of that culture is our Safety Manager, Mick, whose decades of experience in high-risk industrial environments have shaped the way we approach safety in our recycled timber workshop. From his early career in heavy industry to his work with the NSW Rural Fire Service, Mick has seen first-hand how powerful a strong safety culture can be.
Thor’s Hammer Safety Manager - Mick Gunthorpe
Since joining Thor’s Hammer, he has applied that knowledge to elevate our systems, strengthen our practices, and empower our team to think proactively about risk. Whether he is updating procedures, running toolbox meetings, supporting training, or bringing new initiatives like “Take Two” and Job Safety Analysis into daily use, Mick has helped turn safety into a shared responsibility woven into every task we do.
Before joining Thor’s Hammer, what types of workplaces or industries did you work in, and how did they shape your approach to safety?
I worked at BlueScope as an engineer which spanned 30 years. The culture started to change in early 2000’s as everyone was encouraged to be part of the ‘new safety journey’ which was marked by a commitment to zero harm. The company invested in training and risk management practices. Workplace accidents dramatically reduced, and morale improved as we felt valued because our health and safety became a priority. I strived for a culture where there was no place for complacency when it came to safety. The pursuit of the goal for zero-harm on the job site has continued with me all my life.
My interest in woodworking took off in the early days of working at BlueScope because I had to find a hobby to keep myself busy during my days off from the shiftwork. From a simple volume set of books about woodworking, I taught myself how to make furniture. Who would have known I would join Thor’s Hammer a few decades later!
Was there a turning point or experience that cemented your interest in creating safer workplaces?
After leaving BlueScope in 2011, I returned to my roots in Yass where I grew up and was back working on the family farm. I also joined the NSW Rural Fire Service. I enjoyed the sense of feeling part of a community and being involved in teams. Using my experience in Training and Assessing that I had gained at BlueScope, I progressed to become a Deputy Captain and a Training Officer. My highest priority when training RFS members, whether they are a new recruit or an advanced firefighter, is instilling firefighter safety.
What excited you about joining Thor’s Hammer specifically?
The opportunity to receive formalised instruction in how to make furniture with Australian hardwoods, because this was something that always eluded me as my small hobby machinery could not cut or machine hardwoods. Once I learnt to use the bigger machines at Thor’s Hammer, it was exciting to create quality items. I was employed to work in the joinery but later my role expanded to include Safety Manager.
Can you describe what a typical day looks like for you as our Safety Manager?
It always starts with a coffee and a chat to see what the team are up to. Updates to procedures are required whenever there is a new machine, so I keep abreast of the dynamic environment.
One of my main tasks has been to update the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and to write some new procedures. I also train staff on any updated and new procedures. Each week, all the teams have a toolbox meeting, and this is where I can raise a safety topic for a whole group discussion. I often speak on new industry best-practice safety initiatives.
I carry out regular safety audits and observe the operational handling of the machinery. This is another avenue for me to chat to managers and staff and encourage them to raise any safety issues or new ideas.
What aspects of safety are uniquely important in a recycled-timber workshop environment?
Powerful machinery can throw wood chips out and make lots of noise, so PPE is mandatory when operating the machinery. Correct lifting techniques to carry heavy timbers is important to prevent injury. The basics of keeping the work environment tidy is also important so trip hazards can be avoided.
How do you balance maintaining strict safety standards while supporting creativity and craftsmanship in the workshop?
I ensure there are clear expectations for working safely so once people see that the procedures are in place for their benefit, they not only embrace the safety culture, but they have the confidence to use the machinery and be creative in their work. Building trust is key through open communication rather than micro-management.
What safety initiatives have you implemented since coming on board at Thor’s Hammer?
I introduced the concept of a “Take Two” which helps staff build their own safety mind-set so that it becomes second nature. A “Take Two” means to stop and think about the risks before you start a task. In essence, it’s doing a quick risk assessment. It’s questioning one-self with questions such as:
What are the risks if I do this?
How am I going to manage this risk?
Could I do this differently?
We discuss the “Take Two” concept in weekly toolbox meetings. Everyone can talk about the “Take Two’s” they did over the last week. By sharing the experiences, everyone learns from each other.
Thor’s Hammer Workshop Safety Poster
Building on the Take Two concept, Job Safety Analysis forms have been developed with risk ratings to ensure safety compliance. This has been very hard when working on construction sites where interaction with other teams or machinery could create safety issues. I have amended the existing standard operating procedure (SOPs) and developed new SOPs for new machines or work practices, which means best-practice safety requirements are included for each task or operation.
Is there a recent improvement or system you’re particularly proud of?
Sometimes even minor changes can make a big difference to improving safety. Recently I identified the need for an access ladder and handrailing to the dust hopper on top of a shipping container. This was easily achieved by utilizing an existing access ladder from the old flour silo. Not only does this meet national safety standards for working at heights, it negates the need to use fall restraint harnesses.
Mick’s journey makes it clear that building a safe workplace is never a finished job; it is a mindset, a habit, and a collective effort. Thanks to his leadership, Thor’s Hammer now has clearer procedures, stronger communication, and practical tools that help every team member make safer choices. Initiatives like the “Take Two” approach, improved SOPs, risk-rated Job Safety Analysis forms, and smart upgrades such as safer access systems around the workshop all reflect his belief that even small changes can transform how people work.
By combining structure with trust, and best-practice processes with respect for craftsmanship, Mick has helped create an environment where creativity can thrive without compromising safety. His work ensures that each person who steps into the workshop can feel confident, supported, and part of a team committed to zero harm.