SIT55 SITXWHS401 Implement and Monitor WHS Practices LG V1-0A
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Learner Guide for Hospitality student...
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Learners Guide Implement and monitor work health and safety practices SITXWHS401
2014 Edition
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Contents
TEXT Overview ................................................................................................................. 3 Provide information on health, safety and security ................................................... 3 Monitor safe work practices ....................................................................................17 Coordinate consultative arrangements for the management of health, safety and security issues .................................................................................................23 Implement and monitor procedures for identifying hazards, assessing and controlling risks .......................................................................................................29 Implement and monitor health, safety and security training .....................................51 Maintain work health and safety records and reports ..............................................57
Glossary .............................................................................................................. 65
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SITXWHS401 Implement and monitor work health and safety practices
Overview Under occupational health and safety legislation, the employer and all staff have a responsibility to ensure safety in the workplace. As a manager or supervisor, you have a particular obligation to monitor work practices and ensure that your team is trained to work safely. Failing to comply with the legislation can lead to serious penalties (large fines or even imprisonment) for your employer or you. Complacency and accidents in the workplace are often caused because employees don’t understand the reasoning behind the work practices required of them. You have an obligation to ensure that staff are regularly consulted about safety and security issues, receive adequate training, and that they understand procedures for identifying and reporting workplace hazards. Let’s look at what you will learn on completion of this unit. Section 1: Provide information on health, safety and security Section 2: Monitor safe work practices Section 3: Coordinate consultative arrangements for the management of health, safety and security issues Section 4: Implement and monitor procedures for identifying hazards, assessing and controlling risks Section 5: Implement and monitor health, safety and security training Section 6: Maintain work health and safety records and reports
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Provide information on health, safety and security
Let’s look at what you will learn on completion of this section. • •
Explain relevant work health and safety information to personnel. Make all current work health and safety information readily accessible to staff.
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What are the costs associated with accidents and injuries? Click on the dollar signs to check out some of the costs associated with accidents and injuries in the workplace.
Loss of life or serious injury
An increase in workers compensation premiums
Loss of productivity during and after the accident, for example, dealing with the injury, damage repairs, finding and training replacement staff
Time and costs associated with accident investigation and reporting
Managing the rehabilitation and return to work of the injured worker
Negative effect on team morale
Possible financial penalties (or imprisonment) to the company and to individuals where management negligence or misconduct is proven
To prevent workplace accidents, you need a good understanding of the factors that contribute to these events. Let’s look at some of these now.
Why do accidents occur? Click on the dot points to see some common factors that contribute to workplace accidents.
Human error
Lack of training or poor training and supervision of staff
Employees’ lack of awareness of hazards associated with various tasks
Unsafe or faulty equipment and inadequate personal protective equipment
Peer pressure not to conform with safety procedures or use safety equipment
A poor or high risk work environment, for example, poor housekeeping, inadequate lighting, ventilation
Short cuts or complacency due to over-familiarity with the work in completing hazardous tasks
Modifying or altering a piece of equipment or machinery
What are the most common accidents? In every industry there are certain types of accidents that occur due to the nature of the work. Let’s look at some common accidents in the hospitality, tourism and events industry. Click on the tabs to find out more. Muscle strains From carrying cases of alcohol to re-arranging furniture, and carrying or moving heavy objects as part of your work. If these tasks are not performed correctly and help called for when needed you can easily strain muscles.
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Trips, slips and falls Steps, frayed carpets, flooring with holes and uneven surfaces all create opportunities for trips and falls. Obstructions like trolleys, boxes, rubbish or debris left in traffic areas are also easy to trip over. Slippery surfaces are commonly found behind the bar, kitchen and dishwasher areas. Poor lighting can also contribute to these kinds of accidents. Cuts and abrasions The incorrect use of equipment and the sharp corners on benches and tables have the potential to break the skin and cause serious damage. Mechanical injuries Unguarded machinery like meat slicers and mix-masters can cause serious injury if not used properly. Burns Working with hot liquids, steam, ovens, cook tops and gas flames can increase the risk of burn-related injuries. Cleaning chemicals can also damage or burn your skin, blood and respiratory system if they are mixed, used or stored incorrectly.
Extend your learning You may like to research the most common type of injuries or causes of injuries that occur in your workplace. This information should be available in an injury or near miss register.
Should you be concerned about security? Many areas of hospitality, tourism and events establishments are accessible to members of the public. This makes it easy for people to float around and remain unnoticed. In such an environment security breaches can occur. Click on the pictures to see examples of possible security breaches. Suspicious behaviour It’s is often very difficult to tell the difference between customers and unauthorised visitors. The best thing you can do is keep an eye open for people acting suspiciously. Look out for people who are aimlessly floating around without any real purpose or acting nervous or anxious. Loss or theft of property, goods or materials Look out for guests who steal glasses, ashtrays, bathrobes and even menus. Theft is not just restricted to outsiders; sometimes staff members also steal.
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Here are some ways hospitality enterprises protect against theft. • • • • •
Encourage staff to keep valuables and personal property in lockers. Educate guests and staff about the risk of leaving valuables in unsecured places. Inform guests of any security arrangements, for example, safety deposit boxes. Do not give guests access to back of house areas. Do not give guests access to rooms using a staff/master key, even if a guest claims to have lost their key. • Use surveillance equipment. Theft policy Most establishments have a policy dealing with theft by employees. The policy is usually issued to staff on commencement of employment or during induction and spells out the consequences of such actions. In most cases, the result is instant dismissal. In some instances, the police may be alerted. However, a more useful approach to theft is preventative procedures that dissuade employees from stealing in the first place. A prevention procedure sets out how each asset (for example, food, beverages, linen, utensils, equipment and furnishings) is accounted for. This can be done via stock requisitioning systems, stock auditing and ordering controls, access restrictions to various areas, and accounting systems to monitor purchases and sales of goods. Crowd control You have the right to ask people to leave the premises due to unacceptable behaviour. However, if you’re not comfortable dealing with the situation yourself, it may be best to call your manager for assistance. In some work environments, particularly in high risk areas, licensed venues and public events, security personnel may be on hand to assist you. Key control Follow these simple rules. • • • • • • •
Never lend your keys to another person. Return any keys you find to the front desk or designated lost property area. Never let anyone into a room for which you are responsible. If they have a legitimate reason for being in that room, they should get their own key. Keep keys in a designated area or with an authorised staff member. Don’t put keys down; keep them attached to your uniform. Utilise a key register where possible so you can keep track of who you have issued keys to. Ensure employees return keys when their employment is terminated.
Security of staff property You are tempting thieves if you leave personal bags and belongings in an area that is not secure. How often have you seen staff bags thrown underneath a counter or in a storeroom that has no security whatsoever? It happens all the time. Where possible, staff should have lockers that can be securely locked, out of sight of the public. Always keep your key with you or in a secure place.
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Damage to property or fittings Due to the high level of traffic, hospitality establishments can, after a period of time, look a little old and worn. Constant wear and tear of floor coverings, furniture and equipment can take its toll. You can help minimise this by ensuring that customers and staff do not use furniture and equipment other than for what they are intended. Keeping feet off chairs and away from walls, as well as cleaning up spills immediately, will prolong the life of items. Housekeeping and room service attendants who have access to guest rooms should also keep a lookout for property damage to furniture or fittings and report if damage occurs immediately. Misuse and damage to property is a major expense to an establishment. If guests are caught intentionally causing damage, establishments can seek monetary reimbursement.
What safety and security information should you provide to staff? Provide staff with all of the safety and security information relevant to their responsibilities, duties and obligations as an employee for your establishment. Click on the checkboxes to see what this includes.
Safety and security policies and procedures
Legal obligations and the ramifications of failure to comply
Roles and responsibilities of employers and employees in WHS management practices
Consultative arrangements for WHS
Use of hazard identification reporting documents and risk assessment templates
Specific risk control measures relevant to the workplace
Specific regulations and codes of practice
WHS training information and updates
Location of first aid kit and emergency evacuation plan
Food hygiene and food handling procedures
You’ll learn more about each of these areas throughout the remainder of this unit.
How do you convey health and safety information to your staff? Liaising with your staff involves using your communication skills to explain work health and safety information. Remember, you’re a team! Work together. Invite the input of everyone involved and consider what they say in relation to health and safety practices. Click on the supervisors to find out more.
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Ask questions • • •
Are you aware of the legal obligations? Can you identify any hazards in your work area? Do you know how to report a hazard?
Listen actively • • •
Give your staff your full attention. Show sincere interest in what they have to say. Maintain eye contact.
Paraphrase and ask more questions •
You mentioned that the kitchen floor is slippery and poses a risk. Is it slippery all the time or only after busy times such as the lunch hour? • I heard you say that your workstation loses power and switches off. Is your equipment plugged into a power board and does it only happen at the beginning of the day when you start everything? Confirm you’ve understood •
OK, I didn’t realise you were having trouble with the power source at various times of the day. It sounds like it’s best to get a new power board. • So if I understand you right, you’d like me to do a complete hazard assessment of this area?
Where can you put your communication skills into action? Good communication skills are important in any day-to-day exchanges but are especially critical in relation to work health and safety. Being clear, accurate and sometimes forceful in how you communicate may very well prevent or ensure an accident does not happen. Good communication is required in any of these situations. • • • • •
Explaining issues of work health and safety responsibilities to staff Disciplining non-compliant staff Conducting work health and safety consultation activities Explaining procedures and information on safe work practices Explaining the law
Let’s look at the different health and safety procedures. Click to the next screen.
Health and safety procedures in the hospitality, tourism and events industry Health and safety procedures vary between workplaces, based on their specific needs and operation. However, there are many which are common to most customer service orientated businesses. Click on the pictures to find out some of the most common procedures.
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Cash handling Procedures for end-of-shift balance, storage of floats, skimming (glossary) cash registers, foreign and gaming exchanges and banking. Emergency Fire and evacuation procedures, theft, robbery, accidents and injuries, including in the workplace and when off-site at events or tours. Procedures for reporting incidents and accidents and administering first aid. Security Procedures for handling disruptive or intoxicated customers, storage of customers’ money and other valuables, theft of valuables, cash, stock, documents or keys, physical and electronic key security, gaming security, VIP or special event areas. Hazards Procedures for identifying and reporting hazards, managing risk, conducting risk assessments, operating equipment and machinery safely, stock storage and movement, and using/storing chemicals. Manual handling Procedures for lifting and carrying items, reducing repetitive movements as well as the safe use of mechanical aids/ladders. Waste Procedures for recycling and disposal of food, general and hazardous waste, both on-site and off-site. Personal protective equipment Procedures for the safe use, cleaning and storage of protective clothing and equipment. Chemicals Procedures for the storage, dispensing, use and disposal of chemicals and other dangerous substances. Issue resolution Consultative processes and procedures for conflict management, complaints handling and stress management, for dealing with intoxicated guests or problem gamblers. Personal Procedures for personal safety and security in the workplace, or when off site at an event or leading a tour.
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What is the law? Currently all states, territories and the Commonwealth are responsible for making and enforcing their own WHS laws. While they are similar in their approach, there are still some inconsistencies in their application and detail of the laws. Safe Work Australia has the primary responsibility for developing national policy to improve WHS. Over the last 20 years, National WHS Standards and Codes of Practice have been developed in an effort to make WHS regulations more consistent. The Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act forms the basis of WHS Acts being enacted across Australia to harmonise WHS law. Each state and territory is required to pass their own laws that mirror the Model WHS Act. In most cases, new local state and territory legislations are called the Work Health and Safety Act and Work Health and Safety Regulation. The local Acts and regulations were passed in 2011 and came into force on 1 January 2012. On the next screen, let’s look at which laws apply to your state or territory.
Which law currently applies to you? Click on your state or territory to find out. Commonwealth • •
Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011
ACT • •
Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011
NSW • •
Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011
Vic. • •
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007
(Victoria have not yet adopted the new Model laws and have delayed harmonisation.) QLD • •
Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011
SA • •
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Work Health and Safety Act 2012 Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012
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WA • •
Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996
(WorkSafe WA has not yet adopted the new Model laws and have delayed harmonisation.) Tas. • •
Work Health and Safety Act 2012 Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012
NT • •
Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Act 2011 Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations 2011
Note Some states have not adopted the changes and operate under their existing occupational health and safety legislation. They are generally called the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Understanding the legal jargon It’s important you know and understand which documents to refer to in different situations. Click on the words to learn what each one means and how they relate to the law and safety in the workplace. Act
A law made by either the State Parliament or the Federal Parliament.
Standards
These establish acceptable minimum levels or certain requirements relating to a range of issues, such as quality, performance, construction design, endurance, systems or processes, and certain hazards and controls. They can arise out of commonly adopted practices in certain industries, agreements between management and workers, or because of recommendations from advisory bodies. These are law and set out mandatory requirements under the Acts. They provide more detailed information than the Act and support its general requirements.
Regulations
Codes of practice or compliance codes
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They are not made by Parliament but by other statutory authorities or government departments. These provide practical guidance and advice on how to achieve the standard of health, safety and welfare required by the act and regulations. They are developed through consultation, involving industry, employee and employer representation, special interest groups and government representation. They are not law.
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Guidance notes
Safety alert
These are explanatory documents issued by various organisations including WorkCover, Worksafe and Standards Australia. They provide detailed information to support the various requirements of legislation, codes and standards. These emphasise dangers in relation to a specific risk for a particular job. They highlight the hazard, provide background information, and then make recommendations or suggestions on how to control the hazard.
Employer roles and responsibilities Employers have a duty of care to make sure no one is injured while at work, or affected by the activities of the workplace. The WHS Act places the primary duty of care on a ‘person conducting a business or undertaking’ (PCBU), formerly referred to as the ‘employer’. However, this duty of care extends to employees, customers, contractors (glossary) and other visitors to the establishment, regardless of whether or not they are casual, full-time, part-time or even whether or not they are being paid. Click on the pictures to learn more about your duty of care and legal obligations. Duty of care In regard to their duty of care, an employer must do the following (as far as is practicable). • • •
Provide and maintain a safe and healthy working environment. Provide and maintain safe plant and work systems. Ensure that the use, handling and storage and transport of plant and substances are safe and without risk to health. • Provide facilities for the welfare of employees. • Provide information, instruction, training and supervision as necessary to enable employees to work safely and without risks to health and safety. • Provide personal protective equipment, such as lifting harness, back support braces, gloves, etc. Employer obligations Employers are obliged, as far as is practicable, to do the following. • • • •
Maintain the health of their employees. Monitor conditions in the workplace. Maintain health and safety records of employees at the workplace. Engage persons suitably qualified in occupational health and safety to provide appropriate advice. • Nominate a person with an appropriate level of seniority and training to be the employer’s WHS representative when health and safety issues arise. • Where appropriate, provide information about health and safety in different languages.
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How is the workplace defined? The information provided in this resource relates to all tourism, hospitality and events environments. This includes heritage venues, holiday parks and resorts, hotels, motels, clubs, event, meeting and exhibition venues, restaurants, retail outlets, retail travel agencies, office environments for tour operators, event organisers and tour wholesalers. It can also include any location where a tour is delivered, for example, on board a coach or cruise vessel, a tourist precinct where talking tours are operated, and in a national park. In some cases contractors might share your work space when undertaking their work. It’s essential to discuss and define safety responsibilities in these situations. Never assume safety is being taken care of by someone else.
Employee roles and responsibilities The manager is not solely responsible for safety in the workplace; employees have legal responsibilities too. Click on the tabs to find out more. Employee duties and obligations Following safety directions is one of an employee’s basic duties and obligations under OHS and WHS legislation. This is what employees must do. You must comply, so far as you are reasonably able, with any reasonable instruction given by the person conducting a business or undertaking so as to comply with OHS and WHS Acts and Regulations. What does this mean? All employees must follow safety directions from supervisors and managers if it’s ‘reasonably practicable’ to do so. This means, if an employee is not following a safe work practice correctly, or is not following them at all, they must obey a supervisor or manager’s request to comply with the organisation’s health and safety policies and procedures. If an employee does not comply with a safety direction, and an accident occurs, they could be found to be negligent and held liable in the event of legal proceedings.
In a nutshell Every employee, regardless of their status within the organisation, has a duty of care to ensure that health and safety is maintained in the workplace.
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What are the consequences of not following WHS policies and procedures? There can be consequences for you, your manager, employer and company if WHS policies and procedures are not implemented and followed by everyone. Click on the tabs to find out what the consequences are. You (the worker) If you don’t follow your workplace’s health and safety procedures, you increase the risk of injury and illness to yourself and to others around you. You can also be personally fined, prosecuted and even sent to jail if you’re negligent in following your workplace’s health and safety polices appropriately when you know what you should be doing. Others Others in the business can also be fined, prosecuted and imprisoned for not complying with health and safety legislation and regulations. This includes the person conducting a business undertaking or employer, team leaders, supervisors, self-employed persons, individual business owners and officers in a corporation or association. The business The business, corporation or unincorporated association can also be penalised with heavy monetary fines. In addition, it can suffer financially from loss of reputation, loss of business and the impact of a workplace accident on production and their workers.
What information do employees need access to? All current work health and safety information must be readily accessible to staff. How you do this depends on the type and size of workplace, the nature of duties performed and consultative practices undertaken. Click on the books to see some ways you can keep your staff informed and ensure they have ready access to current WHS information.
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Include WHS as part of your establishment’s induction procedures.
Encourage participation in WHS consultative practices.
Make health, safety and security inspections and hazard identification part of routine housekeeping inspections.
Discuss security and safety issues, including the use of the risk control hierarchy, at regular staff meetings.
Arrange training where required, and hold emergency evacuation drills.
Display safety posters and signs and safe operating procedures near potentially hazardous equipment and machinery.
Distribute written documents, flyers or notices on changes in legislation, reporting requirements or establishment procedures and have a plan to keep casual and parttime staff informed about health, safety and security issues.
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Communicate changes as well as information about health, safety and security incidents should they occur.
Provide WHS training and refresher courses to ensure all employees have up-todate skills and knowledge.
Where can I go for further information? For further information and updates about WHS and the role of Safe Work refer to the website www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au. To obtain a copy of the Act, regulations or codes of practice, refer to the relevant authority in your state or territory. Click on your state or territory to see who this is. ACT www.ors.act.gov.au NSW www.workcover.nsw.gov.au Vic. www.worksafe.vic.gov.au QLD www.justice.qld.gov.au SA www.workcover.com WA www.workcover.wa.gov.au Tas. www.workcover.tas.gov.au NT www.worksafe.nt.gov.au
End of section You have reached the end of Section 1. Click to the next section to continue.
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SITXWHS401 Implement and monitor work health and safety practices
2.0
Monitor safe work practices
Let’s look at what you will learn on completion of this section. • • •
Monitor adherence to organisational work health and safety procedures. Monitor ongoing compliance with safe work practices. Take prompt action to address non-compliance with procedures and safe work practice. • Monitor the day-to-day effectiveness of work health and safety practices in maintaining the health, safety and security of personnel.
Who is responsible for monitoring work practices? Monitoring work practices for compliance with safety policies and procedures is your responsibility and for the benefit of all your staff and customers. Most managers and supervisors are effective in monitoring performance outcomes and are quick to take action when customer service standards or profits start to fall. Health and safety should be a priority when monitoring work practices, but often it’s the last thing managers think about when they are assessing staff performance levels. Adherence to safety policies and procedures is extremely important. Failure to monitor them can result in serious injuries, large fines and, in serious circumstances, imprisonment for your employer or you.
What to look out for When monitoring staff look for the following. 1.
Compliance with organisational WHS policies and procedures
2.
Adherence to WHS signage
3.
Safe work practices
Click to the next screen to learn how to monitor adherence to these three areas.
Note It’s essential that you’re familiar with the WHS requirements of your organisation. Being actively involved in WHS discussions, planning and reviews ensures that you’re always up-to-date with safety changes and practices to look out for.
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STEP 1: COMPLIANCE WITH ORGANISATIONAL WHS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Most mangers understand that they have a legal responsibility to document WHS policies and procedures to protect the health and safety of their staff and customers. Click on the icon to find out more. Some managers have large manuals or folders filled with professionally researched information and thorough instructions relevant to their workplace and the practices performed by staff. But how valuable is this information if it’s left sitting in the manager’s office or only handed to staff to read on their first day during induction? Staff need regular instruction, training, updates and consultation about WHS policies and procedures that affect their duties. Plan and organise regular monitoring of staff practices to ensure you identify non-compliances before an incident or accident occurs.
What policies and procedures relate to organisational WHS? Are you familiar with the type of policies and procedures used to manage WHS? These were covered in great detail in the unit Participate in safe work practices. How many can you think of from your workplace or training environment? You have 30 seconds to list as many as you can. Click start to begin. List the policies and procedures used to manage organisational WHS? How did you go? Compare your list to the following examples commonly used in hospitality, tourism and events industries. • • • • • • • •
WHS consultation policies and procedures Emergency and evacuation procedures Handling, transportation and storage of chemicals and hazardous substances Incident and accident reporting Hazard identification and reporting Risk assessment, risk control and reporting procedures Safe work practices and methods Security procedures relating to cash, documents, equipment, keys and people
If you had difficulty compiling a list or can’t remember what information is included in each of these policies and procedures, refer to the unit Participate in safe work practices.
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STEP 2: ADHERENCE TO WHS SIGNAGE WHS signs are put in place to protect the health and safety of employees and customers in the workplace. They are used as caution alerts or reminders about what needs to take place to ensure that work practices are carried out safely. Click on the pictures to see some of the WHS signs you’re likely to find in the workplace.
Cleaning hazard signs such as ‘Cleaning in progress’ or ‘Caution: Wet floor’
Signs to remind staff about personal hygiene or food handling procedures
Hazchem warning signs
Faulty equipment signs
Emergency exit signs
Emergency evacuation plans
Personal protective clothing or equipment signs
Signs instructing staff on the correct use of equipment
Other warning signs such as ‘Forklift operating in area’, ‘Caution: reversing vehicles’ or ‘Alarm in operation’
Hot tip Sometimes staff become complacent, so it’s important that you regularly monitor their adherence to signage. This practice minimises the number of incidents and accidents in the workplace.
STEP 3: SAFE WORK PRACTICES Some safe work practices are the same across a range of workplaces and some are different. Let’s have a look at examples of safe work practices for different job roles. Consider what other procedures these workers could be following and which ones are used in your workplace. Click on the pictures to see the different practices people use. Cook • • •
Handle, clean and store knives carefully and safely. Use dry cloths to handle hot equipment or tools. Use protective equipment or clothing when using or dismantling sharp equipment such as slicers. • Use correct manual handling techniques when lifting and carrying heavy or bulky items such as stockpots or boxes of stock. • Wear safety shoes in kitchens, due to wet and greasy floors.
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•
Wear little or no jewellery when working, so it doesn’t get caught in machinery or cause burns when using hot equipment. • Use trolleys to move large items or quantities. • Follow manufacturer’s instructions when using and storing chemicals. Waiter/bar person • • • • • •
Keep cash and cash registers secure at all times. Use correct manual handling techniques when lifting and carrying heavy or bulky items such as small equipment, stock or kegs of beer. Use personal safety and security procedures when dealing with disruptive, abusive or intoxicated persons. Use a trolley to move stacks of chairs or tables. Follow supplier’s safety instructions when handling inert gas in beverage dispensing machines. Clean up and dispose of broken glass safely.
Tour desk attendant • • • • • •
Keep cash and cash registers secure at all times. Make sure workstations and furniture are designed ergonomically (glossary) and free of hazards. Use safe posture and movements when sitting, standing and bending. Take short breaks from repetitive tasks to reduce the risk of repetitive strains. Use correct manual handling techniques when lifting and carrying heavy or bulky items such as boxes of brochures or pamphlets. Use personal safety and security procedures when dealing with disruptive, abusive or intoxicated persons.
Ride operator • • • •
• •
Rotate tasks to reduce the risk of repetitive strains, loss of focus or fatigue. Use correct manual handling techniques when assisting people on/off or in/out of rides and attractions. Use personal safety and security procedures when dealing with disruptive, abusive or intoxicated persons. Use personal protective clothing and equipment to protect from the weather (sun, cold), the equipment (gloves, jackets, shoes), chemicals (chlorine, oil, grease) or for safety (high visibility clothing, safety harnesses). Follow manufacturer’s instructions when operating and maintaining equipment. Ensure customers follow all safety instructions when using rides and attractions.
Tour guide • •
Take short breaks from potentially stressful situations involving difficult customers. Use correct manual handling techniques when assisting people on/off or in/out of buses, buildings or attractions. • Use personal safety and security procedures when dealing with disruptive, abusive or intoxicated persons. • Use catering, camping or recreational equipment safely. • Recognise local hazards and warning signs and their terminology.
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How do you monitor safe work practices? Monitoring staff work practices means monitoring everything they do during the course of regular day-to-day operations. It’s not simply checking the end result; it is observing the whole process from start to finish and identifying areas where staff may be placing themselves or others at risk of injury or illness. Click on the magnifying glasses for some questions you can use to help you monitor compliance with safe work practices.
Are staff using appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment for the task being performed?
Are staff using safe posture when sitting, standing and bending and using safe manual handling techniques?
Do staff utilise equipment designed to assist with or replace manual handling?
Are staff operating beverage dispensing systems correctly, taking account of the dangers associated with inert gases?
Are staff taking designated breaks?
Are tasks rotated between employees or work teams?
Are staff taking short breaks away from stressful situations involving difficult colleagues and customers?
Is equipment (knives, hot surfaces, computers or electronic equipment) handled and used safely?
Are staff using safe techniques for handling chemicals, poisons and dangerous materials?
Are staff using ergonomically sound furniture and workstations?
Do staff identify and clear hazards from their immediate work area?
Do staff adhere to safety signage and follow the direction of supervisors and managers?
What action should you take to address non-compliance? Staff are often complacent when it comes to WHS matters. Through your regular monitoring you’ll identify incidents of non-compliance with WHS procedures, safe work practices and non-adherence to signage. When this occurs, it’s essential you take prompt and appropriate action to address the situation and minimise the risk of an accident occurring. Let’s look at three examples of how managers have identified issues of non-compliance with WHS procedures, practices and signage, and the action they took to rectify the situation. Click on the managers to find out more.
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Manager 1 ‘Unfortunately my staff only complete incident reports when an accident occurs. I recently held a staff meeting to discuss the issue. Staff informed me that the form is too detailed and time-consuming to complete for situations when an accident has not even occurred. We are currently looking at simplifying the process.’ Manager 2 ‘At the end of the shift, staff often take shortcuts, ignore warning signs and expose their skin to harsh cleaning chemicals. I discussed the matter with my staff and decided that the best course of action would be to store the gloves alongside the cleaning chemicals. This seems to work as a second reminder to wear the gloves and makes the task of obtaining them quick and easy when in a hurry.’ Manager 3 ‘I recently observed an employee storing stock in the cool-room. He was bending and lifting in all sorts of strained and uncomfortable positions. After speaking to the employee, I was surprised that he had never been trained in manual handling techniques. I have given him some useful brochures to read over and scheduled a training session with one of the senior employees at our workplace.’
Why is it important to maintain close contact with day-to-day operations? Monitoring work practices is not a one-off event, it’s something that needs to occur on a daily basis. Don’t sit in your office and expect health and safety issues to be brought to your attention. Interact with staff as they perform their duties and maintain close contact with day-to-day operations. When observing staff, question whether or not existing practices are effective in maintaining health, safety and security. Do you need to review existing procedures, provide additional training or purchase new equipment? Maintaining close contact with staff and daily operations helps you address these questions and ensures you identify issues of non-compliance or ineffectiveness of procedures, before an incident or accident occurs.
End of section You have reached the end of Section 2. Click to the next section to continue.
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3.0
Coordinate consultative arrangements for the management of health, safety and security issues
Let’s look at what you will learn on completion of this section. • •
Coordinate the operation of all consultative processes. Provide the opportunity for staff members to contribute their views on current and future work health and safety management practices. • Resolve or refer issues raised through work health and safety consultation to the appropriate person. • Provide timely staff and own feedback on work health and safety management practices to the designated person.
Why is consultation with employees important? As a supervisor, your responsibility extends beyond instructing team members what they should and should not do in the workplace. You have an obligation to ensure that they are regularly consulted about safety and security-related issues. This means giving staff access to establishment policies and procedures and ensuring they understand the information contained within them. Complacency and accidents in the workplace are often caused because employees don’t understand the reasoning behind the work practices required of them. You can only expect your team to consult with you about safety and security issues they identify if you provide the means and opportunity for them to do so.
How can you motivate team members to commit to WHS? As you’ve learned, workplace health, safety and security is the obligation of all employees and the employer. Click on the icon to find out more. As a leader, you can motivate staff to commit to health, safety and security by involving them in decision-making, problem-solving and goal-setting. Consultation with employees is essential to ensure they understand what’s required of them, and are committed to achieving optimum health, safety and security goals set by the organisation.
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What consultative process should you use? How many different ways can you think of to consult with employees about WHS? What opportunities can you provide for staff members to contribute their views on current and future WHS management practices? You have 30 seconds to think of as many consultative practices as you can. Click start to begin. List the different ways you can consult with employees about WHS and provide opportunities for them to contribute their views on WHS management practices. How did you go? There are many options you can use depending on the number of employees at your workplace. These methods were discussed in the unit Participate in safe work practices. Click to the next screen to refresh your memory.
How do you consult with staff? Click on the checkboxes for some ideas on how you can regularly consult with staff at your workplace.
WHS discussions with employees during the course of each day
A diary, whiteboard or suggestion box used by staff to report issues of concern
Regular staff meetings that involve WHS discussions
Special staff meetings or workshops to specifically address WHS issues
Fact sheets to inform personnel about WHS rights and responsibilities
Formal meetings with agendas, minutes and action plans
Informal meetings with notes
Formal WHS representatives and committees
Involvement of staff in writing parts of WHS policies and procedures
Recording issues in a management diary
Seeking staff suggestions for content of work health and safety policies and procedures
Staff handbook which includes work health and safety information
Surveys or questionnaires that invite staff feedback on WHS issues
Which method is best? There is no best way to consult with staff. Use a method that’s suited to your workplace size and the needs of staff. What’s important is that you choose a method that provides staff with the opportunity to contribute their views on current and future WHS management practices. Remember, consultation involves not only giving information to employees but also listening and considering their opinions before making any decisions.
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Consultative processes for workplace health and safety One of the legal obligations of employers, PCBUs (glossary) and employees is to take part in consultative processes to maintain, improve and implement health and safety policies and procedures. This is a collaborative process that involves sharing information about health and safety and providing staff with the opportunity to contribute their views on current and future work health and safety management practices. Click on the tabs to find out more. Health and Safety Representatives (HSR) The law requires that an employee from the workplace be appointed to act as the HSR. The HSR acts as the employer’s representative when health and safety issues arise or when safety information needs to be communicated to staff. HSRs are chosen from each department within the enterprise to ensure an objective representation of the whole enterprise. This role is generally additional to their main role in the organisation. While it’s not compulsory for HSRs to be trained to perform their role, many are. Trained HSRs can issue Provisional Improvement Notices (PINs) (glossary) and direct work to cease, should they identify a serious risk. Health and Safety Committee (HSC) A HSC provides a forum for consultation on work health and safety issues. PCBUs and HSR meet regularly to work together on developing policies and procedures and improving health and safety outcomes. Representatives from industry associations may also be included in a HSC. Here are some of the roles and responsibilities of a HSC. • • • •
Develops and re-evaluates policies, procedures and work practices. Ensures that these practices are put in place. Advises on health and safety training in the workplace. Ensures employees are informed about rules, standards and work practices. Monitors to see that these are carried out. • Investigates the circumstances of work-related accidents, injuries and near misses. • Carefully examines any work health and safety issues in the workplace and makes recommendations for corrective action. Specialist WHS providers Some organisations may choose to consult specialist WHS companies and individuals who provide assistance in establishing hazard identification and risk management systems. They can also provide training on all areas of WHS. Suppliers and contractors Many event and tourism organisations work closely with contractors, suppliers and complementary service providers. In these situations it is appropriate to consult with key people from these organisations to ensure appropriate management of health, safety and security issues.
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Extend your learning When you’re ready to establish or review a WHS committee at your workplace, refer to the Safe Work Australia website where you will find access to a Worker Representation and Participation Guide. This guide provides information on the functions performed by HSCs and HSRs, how to establish a committee and elect committee members.
What does the law say about consultation? Consultation is not an option; it’s the law. The WHS Act requires every workplace to take a systematic approach to WHS consultation in a number of situations. Click on the dot points to find out what they are.
Before the premises are used for the first time
Before and during the installation or alteration of any plant
When making initial and ongoing decisions on how best to consult with personnel
When proposing to make changes to the premises, equipment materials and systems of work
When conducting or reviewing hazard identification and risk assessments
When making decisions about actions to eliminate or control risks
When introducing or altering procedures for monitoring workplace risks
When introducing or altering facilities for the welfare of personnel
When any new information relating to health and safety risks becomes available
Note The duty to consult applies to all employers regardless of the number of employees in the workplace or whether there is an HSC in place.
How can staff help you eliminate and control risks? The best way to eliminate risks in the workplace is by communicating with your staff. They are the ones who are operating equipment, utilising the work space, cleaning and interacting with customers, so it makes good sense to listen to their ideas. You cannot expect to identify risks by simply looking at the work area; you must be involved in the process of carrying out duties. You may notice that an electrical cord is frayed, for example, or that the floor near the entrance is slippery, but it’s your staff who will alert you to risks such as blunt cutting tools in the kitchen, aggravated back pain from heavy lifting, or difficulty removing hot items from a rotisserie.
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How do you report health and safety issues? Your establishment’s policies and procedures should document the methods used to resolve and report on WHS issues. You may have several different reporting mechanisms depending on the type of incident. Click on the icon to find out more. Reporting methods include completion of First Aid incident/injury reports in the event of a workplace accident, or completion of a hazard identification checklist prior to commencing work. All staff should know how and when to report safety issues, what action to take in the event of an emergency, who to advise, how to do this, and what paperwork to complete. Research the reporting requirements of your establishment or training environment. What forms are used? Who is on the WHS committee and how often do they meet? How do they communicate meeting outcomes with employees?
What should you do when a safety or security issue is brought to your attention? When a health, safety or security issue is brought to your attention, investigate and respond promptly. Click on the icon to find out why.
It’s part of your responsibility for maintaining good working relationships with staff.
Prompt action indicates the importance you place on health, safety and security.
Failure to address an issue could result in an accident and/or injury.
Should the matter involve legal proceedings you could be deemed negligent if you failed to respond appropriately.
Hot tip Depending on the establishment’s policy, your level of authority and the situation, you may be able to resolve the problem yourself. Or you may need to refer the issue to a designated person or the health and safety committee. In the latter case, ensure that the matter is documented and followed through promptly.
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Who should you provide feedback to? Keep staff informed of the progress and outcomes of safety and security issues raised. Click on the megaphones to find out why.
Providing feedback alleviates concerns staff may have about health, safety or security.
It enables staff to focus on their work knowing that the issue is being taken care of.
Ongoing communication and feedback helps maintain good working relationships.
It reinforces to staff, your commitment to maintaining a healthy, safe and secure workplace.
Why is feedback important? Your feedback is equally important. The health and safety representative or manager responsible for the WHS management systems will want to know which systems are working effectively and which can be improved. Highlight your team’s successes and communicate any concerns or issues raised in your consultation with staff. Your feedback is valuable for reviewing existing health, safety and security management practices.
In a nutshell Ongoing communication and consultation also allows you to gain feedback on staff satisfaction with safety management practices and the action taken. Encourage and recognise your staff for their efforts and initiative in raising health, safety and security issues.
End of section You have reached the end of Section 3. Click to the next section to continue.
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4.0
Implement and monitor procedures for identifying hazards, assessing and controlling risks
Let’s look at what you will learn on completion of this section. • • • • •
Coordinate scheduled hazard identification activities ensuring hazards are identified at times designated by legislation. Identify any hazards on an ongoing basis through own day-to-day workplace operations. React to reports of hazards by other workers, coordinate and participate in risk assessments. Implement any risk control methods or refer to appropriate person if control is outside scope of responsibility. Monitor the effectiveness of control measures, promptly identify any inadequacies and resolve or report them to the appropriate person.
What does the law say about managing risks? Anyone who is responsible for ensuring health and safety must eliminate risks to health and safety so far as is reasonably practicable. If it’s not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk, then you must minimise those risks so far as is reasonably practicable.
What does reasonably practicable mean? Reasonably practicable means that which is reasonably able to be done in relation to ensuring health and safety, taking into account and weighing up all relevant matters. This will include some of these factors. • • • • •
The likelihood of the hazard or the risk occurring. The degree of harm that might result from the hazard or the risk. Knowledge about the hazard or risk or ways of eliminating or minimising the risk. The availability and suitability of ways to eliminate or minimise the risk. After assessing the extent of the risk and the available ways of eliminating or minimising the risk, the cost associated with available ways of eliminating or minimising the risk, including whether the cost is grossly disproportionate to the risk. Source: WorkSafe Act, Safe Work Australia. www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au accessed 24/3/14
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What is risk management? Risk management is all about reducing the risk of injury, illness or damage by identifying hazards and controlling risks. There are four steps to risk management. Click on the steps to learn what they are. Step 1: Identify hazards Step 2: Assess risks Step 3: Control risks Step 4: Review control measures You’ll learn how to perform each of these steps throughout the remainder of this section.
When should you use a risk management approach? The workplace environment rarely stays the same. With each change a re-assessment must take place to ensure that all safety hazards and risks are identified. It’s easier to undertake a risk assessment of new systems, products and places during the planning stage, rather than waiting until they’ve already been introduced into the workplace. Click on the icon to see the recommendations outlined in The Code of Practice: ‘How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks’. You should follow a risk management approach in the following situations. • • • • • • •
When starting a new business or purchasing a business When changing work practices, procedures or the work environment When purchasing new or used equipment or using new substances When planning to improve productivity or reduce costs When new information about workplace risks becomes available When responding to workplace incidents When responding to concerns raised by workers, health and safety representatives or others at the workplace • When required by the WHS regulations for specific hazards
Extend your learning Download and read this Code of Practice from Safe Work Australia www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au. Search in the ‘publications and resources’ tab search for Model Code of Practice – How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice. Complete the case studies located in the appendix.
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STEP 1: IDENTIFY HAZARDS A hazard is any situation or thing that has the potential to harm a person.
What is hazard identification? Hazard identification is the process used to identify all of the possible situations in the workplace where people may be exposed to injury, illness or disease. Make hazard inspections a planned, regular event to ensure that hazards are identified at times designated by legislation. Let’s begin by looking at the type of hazards to watch out for.
What are the different types of hazards? Types of hazards differ depending on the size and type of establishment and the equipment, machinery and stock used. Look at the environment around you. Are there any hazards that are immediately obvious to you? You have 30 seconds to identify at least three workplace hazards. Click start to begin. Look at the environment around you and identify at least three workplace hazards. Type the hazards you’ve identified in the space below. How did you go? Hazards usually relate to one of six areas. Let’s look at what they are on the next screen.
Types of hazards Click on the pictures to learn about the many hazards to look out for and the categories they typically belong to. Physical environment • • • • • • • • • •
Crowds Electrical items Exposure to weather and natural disasters Flooring that is slippery or loose. Blocked walkways Hot and cold work environments Lighting conditions Noise levels Pests Touring activities to be undertaken Wild animals and local wildlife
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• • •
Working spaces of workers Appliances, tools, equipment and machinery Customer ability to fully engage in all activities, eg. health issues
Working practices • • • • •
Length of time spent at certain tasks and allocation of breaks Rostering and shift allocation Opening and closing procedures Standard operating procedures for work-related tasks Performing manual tasks that require a person to lift, lower, push, pull, carry or restrain any object, animal or person
Security issues • • •
Storage of cash, documents and keys Theft and robbery Customer behaviour, such as aggressive, drunk, disorderly and disturbed customers
Chemical hazards • • •
Chemicals can exist as vapours, gases, mists, dusts, fumes, liquids and smoke Exposure can occur through skin contact, inhalation or ingestion Chemicals can be acids, alkaline, corrosive, oxidising and combustible
Biological hazards • • •
Moulds and fungi Bacteria and viruses, such as food-poisoning bacteria, hepatitis and HIV/Aids Human and animal waste
Psychosocial hazards Psychosocial hazards are those which affect the mental health and personal well-being. • • • • • •
Bullying and harassment Customer aggression Shift work, fatigue Working alone Work-related mental stress Poor leadership, lack of motivation, poor job design, no procedures or systems in place
Plant • • • • •
Appliances Beverage dispensing systems using inert gases Equipment Machinery Tools
Are hazards obvious? Not always. Some hazards may be obvious because they are common to your industry, or involve using dangerous tools and equipment, or are performed in a physically dangerous environment. However, some potential hazards are far less obvious.
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Some hazards cause injury that is only discovered over a period of time. Examples include exposure to certain chemicals, repetitive movement strains, back injury and hearing deterioration. Work-related back and neck pain and injury are the most commonly cited of the musculoskeletal disorders recorded by Safe Work Australia. This type of injury is often caused by poor manual handling, poor posture, prolonged sitting and repetitive movements. Click on the signs for some examples of hazards
Operation of kitchen tools and equipment such as meat slicers, knives, blenders, ovens and steamers
Tasks which require personal protective clothing and/or equipment, such as for cleaning guest rooms, ovens and other work areas
Stock such as dangerous goods that require special handling, storage or disposal
Work areas where moving equipment or vehicles are operating, for example, loading or receiving bays
The area and chemicals used to clean equipment
Dealing with customers who may be intoxicated, violent or deranged
Emergency situations such as a fire or bomb scare
Spread of disease and/or sickness from contaminated food, waste or sick customers and staff
Pests such as rats or mice
How do you identify hazards? The best way to identify hazards is to actively look for them. Carry out an inspection of the work area and make a list of everything that could be harmful. Observe the movement of staff and customers and pay attention to the processes and equipment that might place them at risk of injury or illness. Click on the checkboxes for some useful questions to ask as you look around the workplace.
Are staff following recommended safety and security procedures?
Are staff taking shortcuts?
Are staff having difficulty operating plant or equipment?
How suitable are the tools and equipment for the task undertaken?
Does the movement of staff and customers place anyone at risk in the work area?
Have suitable controls been put in place to protect staff from manual handling injuries?
Is the environment suitable (adequate lighting, space, ventilation)?
Is there a code of conduct for employee behaviour?
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What are some good tips to remember? Remember the value of listening to your staff. They are the ones who are operating equipment, utilising the work space, cleaning and interacting with customers, so it makes good sense to actively listen to their concerns about safety and security. Don’t forget, some hazards are obvious; others are not. Look carefully for those which might cause damage over a long period of time, such as fatigue, repetitive strain injury (RSI) and stress.
Extend your learning Visit Safe Work SA www.safework.sa.gov.au. Go to the ‘resources’ tab and search under ‘Activities and Education' for ‘online activities and tests’. Here you should find several activities that involve identifying hazards. Try the virtual hotel, office and supermarket hazard identification activities.
How are hazards reported? Every establishment has different methods for reporting hazards. Some take a formal approach and require a written report to be submitted. Others accept a verbal report or written notes in a logbook, suggestion box or on a safety noticeboard. Whichever system is used in your workplace, take prompt action. Never ignore any issue that is brought to your attention. A risk assessment will help you decide what action to take. We’ll discuss how shortly.
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Hazard identification checklist example
Hazard Identification Checklist Department Food and beverage department – dry goods storage area. Name of person completing inspection: Lisa Ashton Item
Shelves • Clean • Neatly stacked • No sign of pests or rodents
Y/N Y N Y
Comment
Corrective action taken
Stock is poorly stacked on storeroom shelf. There is too much excess stock and it is stacked too high.
Staff on shift alerted. Stock temporarily adjusted to minimise short-term risk.
Risk of stock falling and injuring staff member.
Floors • Clean and hygienic • Free of clutter and obstructions • No sign of pests or rodents Temperature • Appropriate for type of goods stored • Temperature logs maintained and up to date Manual handling • Shelves appropriate height • Storage methods appropriate • Equipment available (if applicable
Risk assessment completed.
Y Y Y Y Y
Y Y N/A
Extend your learning How are hazards reported in your workplace? Does your establishment use self-designed tools or templates, or templates developed by industry associations or an external consultant? Type ‘hazard identification template’ into your Internet search engine to look at the many options available.
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Hazards and associated risks Can you identify all the workplace hazards and risks? Click on each item you think poses a risk to the safety of customers and staff. Each time you eliminate a hazard, the hazard counter will drop. Make sure you get the counter to zero before you move to the next screen. Click on the hazards. Spill on floor Well done! This hazard could cause serious injury. Take a look at some of the other hazards under this category. Hazards
Risks
Spilt drinks or cleaning fluids
Slips, trips and falls
Steps and stairs Slippery floor surfaces Frayed carpet Uneven flooring Boxes or debris left in traffic areas Ladders, trolleys, handcarts or other working tools left in traffic areas Electrical cord with exposed wires If you don’t eliminate that hazard, it could give someone a nasty zap! The other hazards in this category are just as dangerous. Take a look. Hazards
Risks
Frayed electrical cords
Electrocution, fire, explosion
Power cables Gas Boxes in front of door with ‘Fire Exit’ sign above it Imagine if there was a fire and people couldn’t get out because the fire exit was blocked. The consequences could be fatal. As you can see from the table below, failing to place appropriate signage on exits can also be a hazard. Hazards
Risks
Blocked fire exits
Inability to safely evacuate staff and customers in the event of a fire or other emergency, risking serious injury or even death
Exits not identified with signage
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Person picking up a box with bent back It looks like that employee has forgotten the correct manual handling technique. Better step in and remind them before they end up with an injury. Hazards
Risks
Poor manual handing techniques
Sprains and strains
Light out Good spotting! The light that’s out makes it very dark. If people have difficulty seeing, there is a higher likelihood of an accident occurring. Hazards
Risks
Poor lighting
Slips, trips, falls, cuts, abrasions
A utility knife with the blade exposed is sitting on the counter That’s right! The utility knife is definitely a hazard, and has the potential to really hurt someone. Take a look at the other hazards in this category. Hazards
Risks
Broken glass
Cuts and abrasions
Sharp corners on display fixtures and fittings Utility knives Scissors Other sharp objects/cutting implements Boxes stacked badly in the storeroom You’re right, those boxes are a hazard. Unfortunately, this happens too often. Busy employees become careless and stack boxes hurriedly, intending to do it properly later. However, that time rarely comes and someone ends up hurt. Hazards
Risks
Boxes poorly stacked in storeroom
Crushing-related injuries and damage
A staff member looking at a stock trolley and scratching their head Good work! An untrained staff member can be a serious hazard, especially if they try to use equipment they haven’t been trained to use. Hazards
Risks
Untrained staff
Minor to serious injuries to staff and customers depending on the nature of the training required
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STEP 2: ASSESS RISKS Whenever a hazard is brought to your attention you must conduct a risk assessment. This helps you identify which hazards pose the greatest risk to health and safety. Click on the question marks to learn more about the risk assessment process. What is a risk? A risk is the likelihood of a hazard actually causing harm. What is a risk assessment? Risk assessment is the process used to determine: • • • •
the severity of a risk (potential to cause injury or illness) the effectiveness of existing control measures action you should take to control the risk the urgency to take action.
When should you do a risk assessment? The Code of Practice for managing WHS risks recommends you undertake a risk assessment in the following situations. • •
When there is uncertainty about how a hazard may result in injury or illness. When the task involves a number of different hazards and you’re not sure how the hazards impact on each other to produce new or greater risks. • When changes occur in the workplace that may impact on the effectiveness of control measures.
Note Some work activities are classified as ‘high-risk’ and under WHS regulations have specific risk assessment requirements. These are mandatory requirements that might apply to you if you work in confined spaces or conduct diving tours.
Coordinating the risk assessment process? It’s important that every risk assessment is thorough and complete. It’s easy to overlook hazards or underestimate the severity of risks, especially in an environment you are unfamiliar with. Click on the icon to find out more. Consulting with other personnel is worthwhile as they may be aware of potential dangers you haven’t considered or processes you’re unaware of. This is particularly the case if you are new to the workplace or if others are likely to have more industry or workplace experience. The right personnel can work with you to assess risks and plan appropriate short-term and long-term solutions to eliminate or minimise the likelihood of an incident occurring.
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What are some tools that help coordinate the process? There are many risk assessment tools and templates available. They are all very similar in design and some have been drawn up to help you address industry-specific hazards and risks. When choosing or developing a risk assessment template, ensure that it incorporates assessment criteria for assessing risks and consequences. A template for simply recording a list of hazards and risks is not a complete risk assessment document. Let’s look at an example on the next screen.
Risk assessment template Click on each number to learn more about each section of the risk assessment template.
Risk assessment 1 Date of assessment: _____________________________________________________ 2 Name of person completing assessment: ______________________________________ 3 Department/work area/task assessed: _________________________________________
(1)
6
Risk priority
5
Level of risk
Severity
4
Potential harm or consequences
Likelihood
Hazards identified
Risk controls
7
Person responsible for action
8
Date completed
9
Date of assessment
The date of assessment is needed so you can monitor how much time has elapsed between conducting the assessment and taking action. It also allows management to look at the frequency of assessments being conducted throughout the establishment.
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(2)
Name of person completing assessment
The person conducting the assessment may not be the department supervisor or manager. It could be an employee or WHS representative. Include this information in case the report needs to be followed up or more detailed information is required. (3)
Department/work area/task assessed
A risk assessment may relate to an entire department, one particular work area such as a kitchen or front office, or a specific work task such as clean-up procedures. Management need specific information about what areas or tasks are included in the risk assessment. (4)
Hazards identified
This is where you list all of the hazards you identify. If you’ve already completed a hazard identification checklist, you can transfer the information from your checklist directly into the risk assessment template. (5)
Potential harm or consequences
Collect sufficient evidence of the type of risk posed by the identified hazard. Consider the injury, illness or consequences that could result (burns, cuts, muscle strain, stress, death, etc.). (6)
Level of risk
The level of risk is determined by following 3 steps. Step 1: Determine how likely it is that someone may be exposed to the hazard and the probability that an incident or injury will occur. Step 2: Determine how severe a potential injury or illness could be. Step 3: Using a risk priority chart, match the severity and likelihood of exposure to determine the hazard’s overall risk level. Sounds complicated? You’ll see how to assess the level of risk in more detail shortly. (7)
Risk controls
Risk controls are the steps you plan to take to eliminate or minimise the risk. You may recall the hierarchy of control from previous WHS units. We will discuss risk control options in more detail shortly. (8)
Person responsible for action
The person responsible for taking action may not be the person completing the risk assessment. For example, a WHS representative might conduct a risk assessment and record the action to be taken by the department supervisor or manager. Recording these details makes someone accountable for the action required. (9)
Date completed
Once the required action is taken, it’s necessary to close off the report by inserting the completion date. Management can then see that the hazards have been appropriately controlled and determine if any further action is required.
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How do you use a risk priority chart? A risk priority chart uses a ranking scale to help you identify the risks that need immediate attention. There are three simple steps to follow. Click on the pictures to learn more about each one. Step 1 Collect sufficient evidence to determine how likely it is that someone may be exposed to the hazard. What is the probability that an incident or injury will occur? • • • •
Very likely (could happen any time). Likely (could happen occasionally). Unlikely (could happen, but only rarely). Very unlikely (could happen, but probably never will).
Consider how often the task is performed, how near people get to the hazard, whether the hazard is known to have caused injuries in the past, and the effectiveness of existing controls. Can environmental changes impact on the likelihood? Step 2 Determine how severe a potential injury or illness could be. • • • • •
Fatal: a person could be killed. Critical: a person may suffer a permanent disability or ill health. Major: a person may suffer long-term illness or serious injury and time off work. Minor: a person may require treatment by a doctor and some time off work. Negligible: a person may require first aid treatment and no time off work.
Step 3 Using a risk priority chart, match the severity and likelihood of exposure, to determine the hazard’s overall risk level. Likelihood Severity Fatal Critical Major Minor Negligible
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Very likely
Likely
Unlikely
Very unlikely
1 1 1 2 3
1 1 2 3 4
2 2 3 4 5
3 3 4 5 6
The numbers 1 to 6 in the chart indicate the level of risk. 1 to 2 = High (take action immediately) 3 to 4 = Medium (take action as soon as possible 5 to 6 = Low (may not need to take action
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Completing the risk assessment Click on the tabs to see the risk assessment process in action. Hazard identification Do you remember the hazard identification checklist we looked at in earlier in this section? The employee identified one hazard in their work environment that needs further investigation.
Hazard Identification Checklist Department: Food and beverage department – dry goods storage area Name of person completing inspection: Lisa Ashton Item
Y/N
Shelves • • •
Clean Neatly stacked No sign of pests or rodents
Y N Y
Floors • • •
Clean and hygienic Free of clutter and obstructions No sign of pests or rodents
Y Y Y
Temperature •
Appropriate for type of goods stored • Temperature logs maintained and up to date
Y Y
Manual handling • • •
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Shelves appropriate height Storage methods appropriate Equipment available (if applicable)
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Y Y N/A
Comment
Corrective taken
action
Stock is poorly stacked on storeroom shelf. There is too much excess stock and it is stacked too high.
Staff on shift alerted. Stock temporarily adjusted to minimise short-term risk.
Risk of stock falling and injuring staff member.
Risk assessment completed.
SITXWHS401 Implement and monitor work health and safety practices
Commence risk assessment The employee now completes a risk assessment for the hazard she identified.
Risk assessment Date of assessment: 20 April 20xx Name of person completing assessment: Lisa Ashton Department/work area/task assessed: Food and beverage department – dry goods storage area Risk controls
Person responsible for action
Date completed
Risk priority
Level of risk
Severity
Potential harm or consequences
Likelihood
Hazards identified
Poorly stacked stock on storeroom shelf
Potential harm or consequences The employee assesses the potential harm or consequences based on the nature of duties carried out in the area.
Risk assessment Date of assessment: 20 April 20xx Name of person completing assessment: Lisa Ashton Department/work area/task assessed: Food and beverage department – dry goods storage area
Stock could fall on an employee and cause bruising, cuts, neck strain, head injury or concussion.
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Risk controls
Person responsible for action
Date completed
Risk priority
Poorly stacked stock on storeroom shelf
Level of risk
Severity
Potential harm or consequences
Likelihood
Hazards identified
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Risk priority Using the establishment’s risk priority chart, she ranked the risk as ‘Medium’ because if the stock fell from the shelf and injured an employee, they may need medical attention and time off work. Looking at the poorly stacked shelves, and knowing the number of staff who access the area during the course of their work day, an incident is likely to occur if action is not taken soon. Likelihood Severity Very likely
Likely
Unlikely
Very unlikely
1 1 1 2 3
1 1 2 3 4
2 2 3 4 5
3 3 4 5 6
Fatal Critical Major Minor Negligible
The numbers 1 to 6 in the chart indicate the level of risk. 1 to 2 = High (take action immediately) 3 to 4 = Medium (take action as soon as possible 5 to 6 = Low (may not need to take action
Click on the icon to see the next step in the risk assessment process.
Risk assessment Date of assessment: 20 April 20xx Name of person completing assessment: Lisa Ashton Department/work area/task assessed: Food and beverage department – dry goods storage area
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Risk priority
Medium
Severity
Stock could fall on an employee and cause bruising, cuts, neck strain, head injury or concussion.
Minor
Poorly stacked stock on storeroom shelf
Level of risk Likelihood
Potential harm or consequences
Likely
Hazards identified
Risk controls
Person responsible for action
Date completed
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Risk controls Risk control is the process used to identify all practical measures for eliminating or reducing the likelihood of injury, illness or disease in the workplace. It also involves implementing the measures and continually reviewing them to ensure their effectiveness. You’ll learn more about the hierarchy of control shortly. For now, let’s look at the outcome of the risk assessment example and suggested actions for eliminating or controlling the risks.
Risk assessment Date of assessment: 20 April 20xx Name of person completing assessment: Lisa Ashton Department/work area/task assessed: Food and beverage department – dry goods storage area
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Likely
Risk controls
Person responsible for action
Short-term: stack stock on floor of store room in such a manner that it won't block the doorway.
Lisa Ashton
Arrange for additional shelving to be installed for excess stock.
Purchasing Manager
Train staff in manual handling techniques and hazard identification.
Human Resource Manager
Date completed
Risk priority
Medium
Stock could fall on an employee and cause bruising, cuts, neck strain, head injury or concussion.
Severity
Poorly stacked stock on storeroom shelf
Level of risk
Minor
Potential harm or consequences
Likelihood
Hazards identified
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STEP 3: CONTROL RISKS Risk control is the process used to identify all practical measures for eliminating or reducing the likelihood of injury, illness or disease in the workplace. To find the best and most practical solution, WHS Regulations require you to use the hierarchy of control. Click on the pyramid sections to learn about the hierarchy of control. Hierarchy of risk control from most to least effective
1. Eliminate Most effective
2. Substitute
3. Isolate
4. Engineering
5. Administration
6. PPE
Least effective
Eliminate Eliminate the hazard: repair or dispose of the item causing the hazard. Substitute Substitute the hazard with something that poses less risk. For example, replace cleaning chemicals with non-toxic brands. Isolate Isolate the hazard from people. For example, put barriers around spills. Engineering Change or design the layout to make it safer for people. For example, use trolleys to move heavy objects and fit safety guards to hazardous equipment.
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Administrative Change the way the job is done, for example, training, equipment maintenance procedures, job rotation, etc. PPE Use personal protective clothing or equipment, such as eye or hearing protection, gloves, aprons or hard hats.
Implement risk control methods Whether or not you can implement the control measures depends on your level of authority and experience. It may be necessary to delegate the responsibility to a higher level staff member, someone more experienced than you, or alternatively, to an external consultant or service provider. For example, you may identify action that is required by another department or needs approval from upper management or the finance department. In such cases, refer the matter to the appropriate person so that prompt action can be taken to deal with the risk you identified. Always refer to your establishment’s procedure and seek advice before taking any action you’re unsure about.
What can you do to support the implementation of control measures? The implementation of control measures often results in changes to systems of work, equipment, the work environment or protective clothing. Whenever changes are made, it’s important that staff are adequately supported and receive the information and training they need to ensure their safety. Only with adequate support will the control measures be effective in eliminating or minimising safety risks. Click on the checkboxes to learn support strategies you can adopt in your workplace.
Provide staff with adequate training or coaching.
Demonstrate how to use new equipment or undertake a task.
Provide staff with written procedures or safe work guidelines and support these procedures with practical demonstration.
Ensure adequate supervision during the implementation period or in situations where high risk activities are undertaken.
Provide safety induction for contractors or visitors who may be unaware of the establishment’s control measures.
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STEP 4: REVIEW CONTROL MEASURES Control measures must be reviewed to ensure their effectiveness. Click on the icon to find out why.
You need to determine if existing controls are actually working to prevent injuries and minimise risk.
Over time, staff may become complacent, forget required safety procedures, or start taking short cuts.
Equipment may become damaged or faulty and protective clothing worn out.
New procedures may be introduced or changes may occur to safety legislation.
Note Ensure you have up-to-date information from suppliers, industry regulators and WHS authority websites. There may be new products or developments that are safer than the ones you’re currently using.
How do you identify inadequacies in risk control measures? When any hazardous event occurs, promptly investigate the situation to find out what caused the incident. Then evaluate if current risk control measures are adequate. This can reveal how to avoid similar incidents occurring in the future. Click on the managers to find out more. Keep a written record of all accidents, incidents and near misses, including those in which stock or equipment has been damaged. Use your problem-solving and critical thinking skills to analyse these records to identify trends. For example, records might show that hazardous events regularly occur in one area or work situation. Or the same type of incident might occur often. This would suggest that current risk control measures are not working and that better measures need to be employed. If you identify inadequacies that are the responsibility of another department within your establishment, report them to the appropriate person so that prompt action can be taken to improve existing control measures.
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Where can I find some helpful resources? Many resources, codes of practice and guidance notes are available from your WHS authority. These provide you with information on safe work practices and control measures you can take to improve safety in certain situations. Where possible, discuss these control measures with relevant personnel in your establishment. If appropriate, you may choose to adopt the recommended control procedures, or alternatively, adapt them to suit your unique workplace needs.
End of section You have reached the end of Section 4. Click to the next section to continue.
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5.0
Implement and monitor health, safety and security training
Let’s look at what you will learn on completion of this section. • • •
Identify work health and safety training needs based on regular staff monitoring. Make arrangements for fulfilling training needs. Monitor effectiveness of training and make required adjustments.
When do staff need training? Staff need relevant training and supervision to perform a specific role or function. It’s important to identify staff knowledge and skill gaps so you can plan and organise for training that is appropriate for their needs. For example, it would not be necessary to provide staff with hazardous goods training if they’re never exposed to such materials. On the other hand, if they have recently used poor manual handling techniques when moving stock, it would be necessary to provide manual handling training.
The process of implementing WHS training Follow this simple process for implementing and monitoring WHS training. Step 1: Identify training needs Step 2: Identify the ‘gap’ Step 3: Confirm the reasons for the gap Step 4: Close the gap Step 5: Monitor the effectiveness of training
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STEP 1: IDENTIFY TRAINING NEEDS To identify WHS training needs, regularly monitor staff as they undertake their daily duties. As you observe their actions you should consider two factors. Click on the pictures to see what they are.
Training that is required by law
Training that is specific to the work being conducted
Click to the next screen to learn more about these factors.
Training that is required by law The WHS Act requires employers to provide such training to employees as is necessary to enable them to perform their work in a manner that is safe and without risks to health. Click on the gavels to see some examples of training that’s required by law.
Induction of new staff
Training for staff who are safety committee representatives or who have safety responsibilities, for example, evacuation officers, wardens, staff designated to provide first aid
Where a special licence is required to operate certain types of machinery, for example, a fork lift
Where a certain qualification is required to perform a job role, for example, food safety, responsible service of alcohol
Training staff in hazard identification, risk assessment and control
Where records reveal accident or injury trends associated with specific job roles or tasks
Formal training programs in safe work practices
Training in food handling techniques and food related hygiene
Training that is specific to the work To identify the training needs of your staff, consider the various tasks and functions they are required to perform and review their position descriptions and responsibilities. Click on the icon for a list of work tasks that will help you identify potential training needs of your staff.
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Movement such as people, stock, equipment, tools, machinery, vehicles
Substances, for example, cleaning agents, waste products
Tools and equipment, such as machinery, ovens, knives, vacuum cleaners and other electrical equipment
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How and where the work is conducted, for example, in the open air, confined spaces, closed rooms, methods of lifting or movement, type and weight of objects
Cleaning, maintenance and repairs, including procedures, tools and equipment associated with these functions, dealing with spills or breakages, waste disposal, how and when these duties are carried out
Hot tip An effective way to identify specific safety training needs is to complete the task yourself as part of carrying out a task breakdown.
STEP 2: IDENTIFY THE ‘GAP’ The ‘gap’ is the difference between the employee or team’s actual ability and the requirements of the competent and safe performance of the task. Put simply, it’s the difference between what actually happens and what should happen. One way to confirm if a gap exists is to conduct a training needs analysis. This involves recording all the required skills and knowledge to perform a specific work task, then mapping it against the actual skills and abilities of an individual or team. Click on the icon to see a training needs analysis example. Training needs analysis example Task breakdown or skills/knowledge required to perform task:
Employee skills/knowledge displayed
Competency demonstrated in this task?
Further training required?
Yes/No
Yes/No (include details)
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
Yes. Emphasise risk of lower back injuries.
No
Yes. Demonstrate the correct position of feet when lifting.
Stacking stock in store room
Test the load before lifting. Check for a clear path.
Stand close to box and distribute weight evenly.
Stand with feet apart and straddle the box.
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Employee looked at load and tested weight. Observed the employee look for clear path to the storeroom. Employee was not close to box when demonstrating knowledge of lifting procedure. Employee lifted box with feet together.
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Task breakdown or skills/knowledge required to perform task:
Employee skills/knowledge displayed
Competency demonstrated in this task?
Further training required?
Yes/No
Yes/No (include details)
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Stacking stock in store room
Grip with hands not just fingertips. Support back and use legs to lift. Avoid twisting.
Place box on shelf.
Do not lift above shoulder height.
Observed employee grip box with hands firmly and securely. Legs were appropriately used for the lift. The box was carried by the employee with straight posture. Box was appropriately placed on the storeroom shelf. The box was carried at waist height at all times.
STEP 3: CONFIRM THE REASONS FOR THE GAP Click on the dot points to discover possible causes for a skills gap. • • • •
Inadequate tools or equipment Poor attitude Lack of skills or knowledge Poor supervision
STEP 4: CLOSE THE GAP The next step is to determine the most effective means of closing the gap. This could involve new equipment, counselling, training or supervision. In this section, we will focus on how to close the gap with training. Click on the icon to learn the different ways you can fulfil training needs. Start by documenting the skills and knowledge your staff require, based on the skills gap you identified. Next, consult with management to arrange for training to take place as soon as possible.
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This could include a combination of any of the following. • • • • • • •
Coaching or mentoring in safe work practices Arranging formal training programs in safe work practices Providing training in hazard identification, risk assessment and control Providing WHS policy and procedure induction Arranging WHS representative or committee training Provision of information, fact sheets and signage to ensure safe work practices Utilising in-house trainers or safety officers to demonstrate, coach or mentor other employees • Contracting external trainers to conduct specialised training at the workplace • Enrolling staff in external training courses for specific training requirements
STEP 5: MONITOR THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TRAINING When the training is complete, evaluate its effectiveness by observing staff perform their duties and obtaining feedback from them. This may reveal that further training is required or you may simply update personnel records to reflect the new qualification and training received. Act within your level of authority to make adjustments to training programs or plans where required.
End of section You have reached the end of Section 5. Click to the next section to continue.
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6.0
Maintain work health and safety records and reports
Let’s look at what you will learn on completion of this section. •
Complete work health and safety records and reports accurately and legibly and store according to organisation and legal requirements. • Use data and reports to provide reliable and timely input to the management of workplace health, safety and security. • Minimise use of printed materials and maximise electronic transmission and filing of all documents to reduce waste.
What type of records and reports do you need to maintain? Maintaining WHS records and reports is not only a legal requirement, it’s an important means of monitoring health and safety standards in the workplace. Depending on the type of establishment, you may be required to complete additional records and reports. Your manager should be able to advise you if this is the case. Click on the folders to see examples of the type of records and reports you’re responsible for maintaining.
Training action plans and WHS training records
Hazard identification records
Risk assessments and risk control actions
Accident, illness and injuries register
Near miss or incidents register
Incident and accident notifications to WHS regulatory authorities
Agendas for and minutes of meetings
Equipment inspection and maintenance records
Consultation records and diaries of meetings
Monitoring reports and recommendations for change including effectiveness of risk controls, safe work practices and the WHS information provided to staff
Reports on the effectiveness of meetings and committee members
Reports on the effectiveness of consultation decisions, processes and follow-up actions
Extend your learning WHS legislation states the type of information you need to report. Your establishment may have internal forms that meet these requirements. For further advice refer to Safe Work Australia website www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
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The importance of accuracy Click on the checkboxes to learn why it’s important to complete reports accurately and legibly.
Inaccurate or illegible information can potentially contribute to future accidents, injury or security breaches.
Other staff in the establishment may need to refer to this information from time to time. They need to read handwritten information and also have confidence in the accuracy of the data.
Health, safety and security records can be used as evidence should legal action arise.
Medical experts may need the information at a later date in the case of recurring injuries or follow-up treatment.
WorkCover authorities may need to refer to the reports.
Hot tip Check all particulars when completing forms and always confirm the spelling of employee and customer’s names. Ensure your descriptions are clear and your handwriting is legible. Incorrect details, spelling mistakes and poor grammar are unprofessional. Proofread documents prior to submitting. Don’t rely on the computer spell-check function. Although it’s helpful, it won’t pick up every mistake you make.
What information do you record in the event of an injury or accident? You learned the type of information to record in the event of an injury or accident in the unit Participate in safe work practices. Do you remember what you learned? Click start to begin. List the type of information you must record in the event of an injury, illness or accident in the workplace. You have 30 seconds to type your answer in the space below. How did you go? Was there any information you left out? • • • • • • • •
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The employee or customer’s name (and job role/position if an employee) Time and date of injury and exact location where injury or illness occurred How it happened The nature of the injury or illness and the body parts affected Names of any witnesses and the person entering details in the register Date employer was notified Treatment provided, by whom and at what time Follow-up treatment provided, i.e. by doctor or other health care and emergency services
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What does an incident report look like? There are many different types of incident reports you can use. Type ‘incident report template’ into your Internet search engine to see the many options available. Click on the icon to see an example.
Incident report (example) Reported by: ___________________________________________________________________ Date report completed: __________________________________________________________ Type of incident/accident (please tick)
Personal injury accident Personal illness Property damage accident Environmental incident Near miss accident/incident Other: __________________
Description of incident/accident ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Date of incident/accident: ____/____/____ Time: ___________ am/pm Witnesses: ______________________________________________________________________________ FOR ACCIDENTS: Fill out table below by ticking selection
Part of body
Accident type
Head injury___
Hand/wrist ___
Trip/fall___ Harmful contact/exposure____
Eye injury___
Leg ___
Falling/flying object___ Vehicle/plant work ____
Neck___
Foot/ankle ___
Caught in___ Journey to/from work ___
Trunk – front ___
Internal ___
Struck by/object___ Psychological (eg., stress)____
Trunk – back ___
Multiple ___
Manual handling___ Other:
Arm ___
Other ___
Treatment
Outcome
Nil ____
Doctor ____
First aid ____
Ambulance ____
Hospital ____
Return to work ____
Sent home _____
Time ____ am/pm
Date____/____/____
First aid administered by Name: __________________ Position: _______________________ Time: ________________
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Incident report (example) Factors contributing to the accident Workplace hazards Tools/vehicle/plant/equipment Failure to follow safe operating work practice Environmental factors (rain, ice, etc.) Personal factors, eg., disability, hearing impairment, etc. Other (specify) Immediate action taken by first aider _______________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________
Proposed action to be taken to prevent recurrence Reinstruction of person involved Arrange job safety analysis Improved personal protection Reinstruction of others doing same job Action to improve design/procedure Regular pre-job instruction
Temporary relocation of person Permanent relocation of person Training/retraining Equipment repair or replacement Order use of safer materials Elimination of product/equipment
Further notes or comments Name of person completing report: __________________________________________________ Position: _______________________________________________________________________ Signature: __________________________________
Date: __________________________
Name of injured person (if different from above): _______________________________________ Position: _______________________________________________________________________ Signature: __________________________________
Date: __________________________
Name of First Aider: ______________________________________________________________ Signature: __________________________________
Date: __________________________
Hot tip Familiarise yourself with the incident report used in your workplace or training environment. Compare it to the ones you have observed on the Internet. Can yours be improved in any way?
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How do you store WHS records and reports? Your establishment will have strict filing and storage requirements for WHS records and reports. This is to protect confidential information contained in the reports and to ensure they are easy to locate and reference in the future. Where possible, retain confidential records in locked filing cabinets or in storage cabinets that can be secured by a locked door. The Privacy Act 1988 obliges workplaces to follow very strict guidelines concerning the use and protection of personal information contained in reports. This impacts the type of information you retain and how that information must be stored and accessed. If you are uncertain about your legal obligations, refer to the website www.privacy.gov.au.
How can WHS records and reports assist in risk assessment and control? Reviewing WHS records and reports gives you insight into injury trends and recurring incidents. They can help you identify training needs, areas where greater supervision is required, or the need for equipment repairs or upgrades. For example, incident reports may show that 90 per cent of injuries occur in the kitchen because staff are slipping on the greasy and sometimes wet floor. This tells you that there is a need for improved housekeeping practices and training for staff.
How do you analyse health, safety and security reports? The advantage of maintaining health, safety and security reports is that management can use them to identify hazards, trends in accidents, injuries and security breaches and the effectiveness of control measures. Click on the icon to find out more. Health and safety committees typically have a health and safety data review as a permanent meeting agenda item. They should share the results of those meetings with other staff where relevant to their duties. Review the health, safety and security reports for your area of responsibility regularly. Take a continuous improvement approach, as this helps you fulfil your legal obligation to maintain a safe, secure and healthy workplace for staff and customers. Where possible, involve your staff in WHS and security matters. When you identify and respond to hazards and risks, act within your level of authority and, if necessary, report matters to higher management to take the appropriate action.
Do your part for the environment With all these records and reports you’re required to maintain, you’re likely to have a great deal of paperwork sitting on your desk. Or are you? There must be a better way. Can you think of ways to reduce the amount of paper you use for reporting and communicating with staff?
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Click start to begin. How many ways can you think of to reduce the amount of paper used in your establishment? List as many as you can in the space provided. You have 30 seconds to type your answer in the space below. How did you go? Maximising electronic transmission and filing of all documents is the best way to reduce the amount of paper you use. Let’s look at why this is important on the next screen.
What is a ‘carbon footprint’? A carbon footprint is a measurement of how much greenhouse gas you’re responsible for in your business or domestic lifestyle. Activities that contribute to your carbon footprint can be both direct and indirect (glossary). Just about everything you do, use or buy results in the emission of greenhouse gases. Reducing your carbon footprint is all about making responsible choices to reduce the amount of carbon you are responsible for. Basically, the more you buy, what you buy, where you buy it from, and how much you use all makes a difference to environmental sustainability.
What is the waste management hierarchy? The waste management hierarchy can be used in all areas of business. Click on the pictures to see how you can use the hierarchy to learn how you can minimise the use of printed materials. Most effective
1. Refuse
2. Reduce
3. Reuse
4. Recycle
5. Recover 6. Responsible disposal
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Refuse •
Refuse to print paper-based material when possible. Submit reports, documents and files electronically instead. (This may not be possible in cases where signed declarations are required.) • Use email as your primary form of communication with employees. • Set up reliable electronic filing systems to ensure records don’t get lost in the system. Reduce • •
When you do need to print, only print the pages you need, not the entire document. Share printouts in meetings rather than distributing paper-based copies to all attendees. • Print single-paged notices and flyers and display in a prominent area rather than issuing a copy to every employee. Reuse •
Reuse the reverse side of printed documents rather than disposing of them in the waste.
Recycle • • • •
Provide recycle bins for paper waste. Recycle toner cartridges used for printing documents. Buy recycled paper for the office and recycled toner cartridges. Provide a shredder for confidential documents and ensure the paper waste is disposed in your recycling bin.
Recover •
The paper and toner cartridges you recycle are taken to a Material Recovery Facility (MRF or ‘murf’). Here they are sorted, baled and transported to reprocessing or treatment factories and made into new products.
Responsible disposal •
Printing documents and throwing waste away is the least preferred option. In nearly all cases, you can recycle paper waste. The exception to this is if the paper has been contaminated with bacteria or chemicals in some way.
End of section You have reached the end of Section 6. Click to the next section to read the unit summary.
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Summary Now that you have an understanding of the type of WHS information that needs to be provided to employees, you can ensure that all of your staff are regularly updated and trained in ways to maintain a safe and healthy work environment. Remember the techniques you’ve learned for identifying hazards and controlling risks. These techniques, combined with your effective leadership and communication skills, will ensure a high standard of health, safety and security at your workplace.
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GLOSSARY
Glossary Word
Meaning
Direct
Activities you have direct control over, such as electricity, food choices (packaging), gas, etc.
Ergonomic
The science of designing furniture and work areas to create an efficient, safe, user-friendly work area.
Indirect
Carbon emissions that result from manufacturing and producing the activities, luxuries and products you consume.
PCBU
The abbreviation for ‘a person conducting a business or undertaking’ used in WHS legislation for someone who owns or operates a business.
Provisional Improvement Notices (PIN)
A PIN is a tool to improve health and safety in a workplace, encouraging employers and workers to openly discuss health and safety hazards and risks in their workplace. A PIN is a written direction (after normal consultation has failed) from a health and safety representative (HSR) requiring a person to fix a workplace health and safety problem.
Skimming
Excess cash (especially larger notes) are removed, or skimmed, from the cash register on a regular basis throughout the trading period.
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