Navigating Workplace Health and Safety Hazard Identification and Risk Control

Abstract

BSBWHS404 Contribute to WHS hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control[Name] BSBWHS404 Contribute to WHS hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control [Author] BSBWHS404 Contribute to WHS hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control Table of ContentsError! Bookmark not defined. Unit of Competency5 Performance Criteria6 Foundation Skills7 Assessment Requirements8 Housekeeping Items9 Objectives9 1. Access information to identify hazards, and assess and control risks10 1.1 – Identify sources of information and data10 1.2 – Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace hazards, the range of harms they may cause and how these harms are caused17 1.3 – Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace risks and risk controls17 Collect information18 Record your findings19 Learning Task One20 Learning Task Two22 Learning Task Three24 Activity 1A – 1C25 2. Contribute to compliance and workplace requirements26 26 2.1 Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of workplace policies, procedures, processes and systems for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities27 2.2 Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of WHS Acts, regulations, codes of practice and guidelines for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities27 Harm the hazard can cause28 Risk Rating Matrix30 Activity 2A- 2B31 2.3 Identify duty holders and their range of duties32 Activity 2C33 3. Contribute to workplace hazard identification34 3.1 Use knowledge of hazards to advise individuals and parties of workplace hazards, the harms they may cause and how these harms are caused35 Harm the hazard can cause38 Activity 3A39 3.2 – Apply knowledge of hazard identification to contribute to selecting techniques, tools and processes to identify workplace hazards40 Under the WHS Act:40 Learning Task Four48 Activity 3B49 3.3 – Contribute to applying selected techniques, tools and processes50 Definitions50 Learning Task Five53 Activity 3C54 3.4 – Contribute to documenting hazard identification process and results55 Section 756 Learning Task Six58 Activity 3D59 4. Contribute to WHS risk assessment60 4.1 – Apply knowledge of risk assessment to contribute to selecting techniques, tools and processes for risk assessment of hazards60 Learning Task Seven62 Activity 4A63 4.2 – Contribute to applying techniques, tools and processes to identified hazards64 4.3 – Contribute to documenting the results of risk assessments64 Fishbone Diagram65 Learning Task Eight67 Activity 4C68 5. Contribute to the development, implementation and evaluation of risk control69 5.1 – Apply knowledge of risk control to contribute to developing risk control options for identified hazards, using the results of risk assessments70 5.2 – Contribute to developing and implementing a risk control plan70 5.3 – Contribute to evaluating implemented risk controls70 Risk Rating Matrix71 Document method and outcomes of risk assessment76 Learning Task Nine78 Activity 5A – 5C83 Skills and Knowledge Activity84 Major Activity – An opportunity to revise the unit85 Appendix One87 Risk Register87 Unit of Competency Application This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to contribute to the processes of identifying work health and safety (WHS) hazards, assessing WHS risks, and developing, implementing and evaluating risk controls according to legislative and organisational requirements. It applies to individuals who contribute to WHS risk management processes in their work role in a range of industry and workplace contexts. NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) are equivalent and generally either can be used in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the Model WHS Legislation has not been implemented RTOs are advised to contextualise the unit of competency by referring to the existing State/Territory OHS legislative requirements. No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication. Unit Sector Regulation, Licensing and Risk – Work Health and Safety Performance Criteria Element Elements describe the essential outcomes. Performance Criteria Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Access information to identify hazards, and assess and control risks Identify sources of information and data Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace hazards, the range of harms they may cause and how these harms are caused Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace risks and risk controls Contribute to compliance and workplace requirements Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of workplace policies, procedures, processes and systems for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of WHS Acts, regulations, codes of practice and guidelines for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities Identify duty holders and their range of duties Contribute to workplace hazard identification Use knowledge of hazards to advise individuals and parties of workplace hazards, the harms they may cause and how these harms are caused Apply knowledge of hazard identification to contribute to selecting techniques, tools and processes to identify workplace hazards Contribute to applying selected techniques, tools and processes Contribute to documenting hazard identification process and results Contribute to WHS risk assessment Apply knowledge of risk assessment to contribute to selecting techniques, tools and processes for risk assessment of hazards Contribute to applying techniques, tools and processes to identified hazards Contribute to documenting the results of risk assessments Contribute to the development, implementation and evaluation of risk control Apply knowledge of risk control to contribute to developing risk control options for identified hazards, using the results of risk assessments Contribute to developing and implementing a risk control plan Contribute to evaluating implemented risk controls Foundation Skills This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance. Skill Performance Criteria Description Reading 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.3, 3.2, 3.4, 4.1, 5.1, 5.2 Locates, interprets and analyses complex WHS legislative and organisational texts Writing 3.1, 3.4, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Uses structure, layout and language suitable for audience to document WHS risk-management processes Uses appropriate organisational formats and industry specific vocabulary to document risk control plans Oral Communication 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.3, 4.2 Uses structure and language suitable for audience to communicate information and contribute ideas about WHS risk-management processes Navigate the world of work 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 Takes responsibility for adherence to legal and regulatory responsibilities and organisational policies and procedures in relation to WHS risk-management processes Keeps up to date with WHS legislation or regulations and related organisational policies and procedures Interact with others 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Understands what to communicate, with whom and how in the context of advising on hazards and harms Cooperates with others as part of WHS risk-management processes, and contributes to specific activities requiring joint responsibility and accountability Collaborates with others to achieve individual and team outcomes Get the work done 2.1, 2.2, 3.2, 4.1, 5.2, 5.3 Applies formal processes to plan, sequence and prioritise risk control tasks, showing awareness of time and resource constraints and the needs of others Uses formal decision-making processes in risk management processes, setting or clarifying goals, gathering information and identifying and evaluating choices against a set of criteria Applies formal problem-solving processes, identifying and evaluating several options for action Uses formal and informal processes to monitor and reflect on outcomes of decisions Assessment Requirements Performance Evidence Evidence of the ability to: Identify and interpret information and data about work health and safety (WHS) requirements and apply it to the selection and application of techniques, tools and processes for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control and the development of a risk control plan Contribute to documenting and evaluating risk management processes Communicate about WHS requirements and compliance with a range of people Comply with WHS requirements for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities Identify WHS duty holders and their duties Knowledge Evidence To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must: Outline the WHS risk management (hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control) requirements specified in: orelevant WHS Acts and regulations oorganisational WHS policies, procedures, processes and systems Explain the difference between hazards and risks in the work context Outline a range of common workplace hazards, the harms they may cause and how these harms are caused Explain how risk assessment and controls can eliminate or minimise risks Identify internal and external sources of WHS information and data and how to access them Assessment Conditions Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced by individuals carrying out work health and safety duties in the workplace and include access to: Office equipment and resources Relevant legislation, standards and guidelines Relevant policies, procedures, processes and systems Case studies and, where possible, real situations Interaction with others. Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements. Links Companion volumes available from the IBSA website: http://www.ibsa.org.au/companion_volumes Housekeeping Items Your trainer will inform you of the following: Where the toilets and fire exits are located, what the emergency procedures are and where the breakout and refreshment areas are. Any rules, for example asking that all mobile phones are set to silent and of any security issues they need to be aware of. What times the breaks will be held and what the smoking policy is. That this is an interactive course and you should ask questions. That to get the most out of this workshop, we must all work together, listen to each other, explore new ideas, and make mistakes. After all, that’s how we learn. Ground rules for participation: Smile Support and encourage other participants When someone is contributing everyone else is quiet Be patient with others who may not be grasping the ideas Be on time Focus discussion on the topic Speak to the trainer if you have any concerns Objectives Discover how to access information to identify hazards and assess and control risks Know how to contribute to compliance and workplace requirements Learn how to contribute to workplace hazard identification Understand how to contribute to WHS risk assessment Comprehend how to contribute to the development, implementation and evaluation of risk control Gain skills and knowledge required for this unit 1. Access information to identify hazards, and assess and control risks 1.1Identify sources of information and data 1.2 Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace hazards, the range of harms they may cause and how these harms are caused 1.3 Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace risks and risk controls 1.1 – Identify sources of information and data Using reviews, tools and techniques to source information from others can assist you in identifying possible risk or hazards in the workplace. To narrow down a hazard or risk and to identify possible causes of a problem you can source other organisation data such as WHS information and data. Sources of WHS information and data may include: Audits – On site inspections can be used to ensure that your organisation’s WHS goals and objectives are being met. In the case that a hazard and associated risks are found, corrective action can be taken to minimise or eliminate risk in the workplace. If you believe that your worksite is not meeting its legal requirements then you can download a Self Assessment to determine what issues need to be redressed in the Safety inspection. Employer groups represent a specific industry or type of business. The members of the employer group usually work with other businesses to build competitive to stimulate growth in Australia. Employer groups will ensure that their members are up to date with industry trends and will assist members in operating their business (industry) more effectively. Employer groups make sure that all employers have a opportunity to represent and promote their interests in the current and future markets. First Aid Records must be maintained to ensure that you have a record of how many workers have been trained in providing first aid (Regulation 42 for the WHS Regulations) according to the nature of the work being carried out. Many first aid kits will usually have a form that requires staff to monitor which staff is using the facilities, what they are using the facilities for and/or if there has been a variation in their usage. Variations in usage can assist in identifying possible causes of hazards or risk in the workplace if the staff members problem is not some identifiable illness. Hazard, incident and investigation reports All hazards and incidents in the workplace must be investigated in a timely manner to ensure that risk is eliminated or minimised in the workplace. This means that employees need to report risks and complete accident/incident reports as part of their legal duty or care as a worker under the WHS Act. Investigations can be raised: As a normal part of operations Upon request to ensure that changes already implemented are meeting their goals and objectives; or In response to an accident/incident report being raised. Industry bodies work with the government in the development of vocational education and training at both State/Territory and National Levels. The aim of industry bodies is to use experts who can assist on training needs and delivery to specific industries. The five main industry bodies in Australia include: Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) http://www.acci.asn.au/ Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU)a http://actu.asn.au/ Australian Industry Group http://www.aigroup.asn.au/ Australian Institute of Training and Development http://www.aitd.com.au/ Business Council of Australia http://www.bca.com.au Legislation, standards, manufacturers' manuals and specifications available at the workplace The aim of manufacturer’s manuals will ensure that you are aware of how to operate your equipment safely. Otherwise known as an owner’s manual, this manual will provide you with instructions on installation of the equipment or plant, set up instructions, installation instructions, safety instructions, how to program the equipment and maintain it, as well as any regulatory codes that you will need to follow to operate the equipment safely and within the correct legislative requirements. A specification sets out the minimum standards that your product must meet to be legal. Specifications allow you to know whether a product is appropriate for your needs and that it meets your requirements. Specifications will usually include a description of the product, its product code, which is responsible for maintaining a product, testing methods, acceptable performance testing levels and drawings of the product to ensure that you have the correct product. Minutes of meetings from incident investigations are used to keep a record of what was discussed during a meeting and can provide those who did not attend the meeting with information on the subject of the meeting, decisions made and the reasons for the decisions. Minutes will also allow personnel to know who was assigned a task and when that task should be completed. These minutes will be reviewed in the next meeting. MSDS’S and registers The register of MSDS’s and MSDS’s should be accessible to workers. They can be stored: Physically on paper and made available to all workers; and Computerised and internet MSDS databases. The MSDS register is a tool that is used to ensure that everyone involved in managing hazardous substances exposures at the workplace. WHS professional bodies can give you industry advice regarding a specific industry. When your workplace does not have staff with the correct skills and knowledge, WHS professional bodies will be able to provide you with names of external consultants who can provide you with: Safe systems of work and their improvement Identifying, eliminating and controlling hazards Taking samples or measurements of workplace environments such as whether the workplace has a high level of air borne contaminants. The type and source of advice will be determined by your needs and the need to ensure that you met your legal obligations under the WHS Act. WHS specialists may found from specific Societies within a specific industry. Some of these societies include: Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia for Ergonomist Specialists http://www.ergonomics.org.au/membership/cpe/cpes-WHS-specialists.aspx Toxicology in Australia for Toxicologist Specialists http://healthengine.com.au/search_interest.php?q=Toxicology Audiological Society of Australia for Audiologists http://www.audiology.asn.au/ Regulatory authorities (for codes of practice, legislation) Regulation in Australia is developed by government bodies. A list of regulatory bodies in Australia include: Australian Bureau of Statisticshttp://www.abs.gov.au Australian Competition and Consumer Commissionhttp://www.accc.gov.au/ Australian Industrial Relations Commission http://www.airc.gov.au/ Australia New Zealand Food Authorityhttp://www.foodstandards.gov.au/ Australian Pesticides & Veterinary Medicines Authorityhttp://www.apvma.gov.au/ Australian Securities & Investment Commissionhttp://www.asic.gov.au Australian Taxation Office http://www.ato.gov.au/ Australian Workplacehttp://www.workplace.gov.au/ Competitions & Markets Advisory Committeehttp://www.camac.gov.au/ Consumer & Employment Protection, Governments of Western Australiahttp://www.safetyline.wa.gov.au. Department of Employment & Workplace Relationshttp://www.dewrsb.gov.au/ Department of Treasuryhttp://www.treasury.gov.au/home.asp?ContentID=521 Insolvency & Trustee Service Australiahttp://www.itsa.gov.au/ Legislative Assembly for the ACThttp://www.legassembly.act.gov.au/ National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Schemehttp://www.nicnas.gov.au National Occupational Health & Safety Commissionhttp://www.nWHSc.gov.au Ombudsmanhttp://www.comb.gov.au Productivity Commissionhttp://www.pc.gov.au Reserve Bank of Australiahttp://www.rba.gov.au Superannuation Complaints Tribunalhttp://www.sct.gov.au The Takeovers Panel http://www.takeovers.gov.au Victorian Work cover Authorityhttp://www.workcover.vic.gov.au Workplace Health & Safety, Queensland Governmenthttp://www.whs.qld.gov.au Workplace Standards Tasmaniahttp://www.wst.tas.gov.au The strategic role of regulation is increasing due to the effects of globalisation and technological development. Regulation may be local, national, international and global and regulation is important to public policy. Each State/Territory has a regulatory body that has a large impact on people, organisations and the environment. Reports play an important role in the internal operations of any organisation. They leave a historical record of the organisations WHS efforts and can be used to not only ensure that the organisation’s legal requirements are met, but to ensure that: Changes to the worksite is ensuring that risk is minimised or eliminated The reasons for the change and why the decision was made The different types of options available Standards, from Australia or overseas Unions such as the Australian Council of Trade Unions see the implementation of the new WHS laws as a chance to achieve the best standards in health and safety for the country. Trade unions played a large role in the development of WHS laws in place today and will assist in ensuring that standards are maintained. Websites, journals and newsletters Make sure that the information that you gather from these areas is valid and come from a reliable source. Reliable sources mean government work sites, trade and industry journals and newsletters. If you do not obtain information from a reliable source, you may find that the information you provide to the people you are trying to help is not correct. When information is not correct, then you run the risk of a bad decision being made that can put others at risk. Workplace inspections Workplace inspections are planed events that can be used to identify hazards before an injury arises. Even though anyone can do an inspection, they should be completed by qualified personnel. Once a hazard is identified you should put in place steps to ensure that the hazard is controlled. 1.2 – Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace hazards, the range of harms they may cause and how these harms are caused 1.3 – Obtain information and data to determine the nature and scope of workplace risks and risk controls Research is an important part of any investigation into a WHS hazard and its associated risks. To ensure that you gather the correct information, it is essential that you clearly identify what information you need to ensure that you can minimise the hazard and the risks associated with the hazard. Failure to systematically identify what you are researching could mean that you will not be able to identify what information that you need to gather. This in turn may mean that you will be gathering a lot of information that is not appropriate. Too much information may mean that you will be faced with information overload. Information overload is when you have gathered so much information that you can become frustrated and confused as you will not be able to collate the information into any form of order. If you have trouble with defining what information you are required to gather, consult with personnel that work in the area in which the information will be gathered. To be systematic, you need to be able to: Identify hazards that can hurt personnel Assess how personnel can be hurt Minimising or eliminating the risk; and Reviewing the risk controls to ensure that they work. You cannot however, be systematic if you are not sure about the information that you are required to gather. Incorrect data and information will not provide you with the correct information to resolve the issue. Once you are clear on your research, you need to determine what information will provide you with the ability to identify the best way in which to minimise or eliminate the risk. Your organisation’s policy and procedures can assist you here. For example; you are required to choose a piece of equipment that minimise risk to workers by ensuring that the repetitiveness of their tasks is minimised. You cannot rotate workers due to the precision required to perform their set task and the level of training required for the worker to be skilled enough to perform the required tasks safely. With this information in hand, you start to browse the internet for the appropriate equipment. Prices vary and you start to ask how much you will be able to spend. You go to the supervisor and they provide you with the feedback. Armed with this knowledge, you will now be able to assess each piece of equipment to determine the appropriate price. There are five pieces of equipment that are within your price range. Part of your job is to assess each piece of equipment and prioritise them. How will you prioritise them? You may: Consult with other duty holders that will be impacted by the introduction of the equipment Clarify priority requirements with management and the personnel that the equipment is being purchased for. Determine whether there are any other options open and consult with appropriate personnel to determine if these options are appropriate. Do not just consult with one party. There are times in which your team members may use your research as a platform to get their point across. Confirm that the option should be considered by consulting with management. The idea may have already been considered and rejected. Do not waste your time researching and gathering information that does not assist you in making the appropriate recommendation/s. Be aware that even though you are given strict parameters upon which to make recommendations, you will sometimes face facts that were not previously considered. Consult with the appropriate personnel to determine what stance you should take in regards to the unforseen. It is important to make sure that you consider all of the relevant information that you need to make the appropriate recommendations. Whenever you make a recommendation, it is essential that you support your recommendation with facts. Making a recommendation without facts will not assist the decision makers in making an informed decision. Collect information Information as you now know can be gathered both internally and externally from the organisation. The information that you gather should support your recommendations and the recommendations that you have gathered from your team. Remember to make sure that the information is supported and from a reliable source. Record your findings If you have never written a report or recorded your findings, you should consider following the steps outlined below, which are: Clarify purpose and expectations Be clear on what you are trying to achieve. Know your audience, make sure information that you gather will support your recommendations. Be clear on your role and responsibilities. Make sure that you consult with others as your recommendations will impact on their job performance. Decide on appropriate report structure Many organisations will have a template in which to develop reports. In some instances, there is no standard format. Refer to previous reports to assist you in the development of your report. Gather information to support your case Always support your points with facts. If you do not provide facts to start with, they will be asked for later. Circulate the report Remember that this is part of the consultative process and feedback from appropriate personnel will allow you to clarify issues, ensure that your recommendations and the information used to support your recommendations are accurate. Discuss feedback with appropriate personnel and if necessary redraft the report. When you circulate information, remember to make sure that the information provided is appropriate for the audience. A full report may scare workers so you may provide them with a meeting to discuss your findings. Make sure that you give the workers a chance to express their thoughts and ideas. Once you have consulted with staff and included their feedback in the report, you should present the report or information to the appropriate personnel. However, one final area should be addressed before the final report is sent to the appropriate personnel. You should ask yourself, what should I do when the information is outside my level of expertise? Learning Task One In your own words, discuss how you would gather information about a health and safety issue in your workplace. What sources would you use? Explain each step of the process using an example of how you would gather information. Research is the key to obtaining defined information about a health and safety issue and its associated risks at workplace. Gathering the right information is essential and calls for systematic identification of the information to research about to minimize the hazards and risks associated with the hazard under consideration. Being systematic implies that one is sure of information to search for thus identify hazard that can hurt workers, identify how the hazard can hurt personnel, minimize risks and review risk controls. With correct information and data, one is able to get the correct information to resolve the noted issue. The most effective sources to use while gathering information on health and safety issue at workplace include: organization policy and procedures. With such information at hand, one is able to research on the issue, and offer the most effective recommendations supported with facts regarding the issue under consideration. Gathering information process: Having done a thorough research on the issue, information is gathered internally and externally from the organization. The gathered information must be in line with the recommendations made regarding the health and safety issue. Record the findings: This step calls for proper consideration of the collected information to sort out which is most relevant with regard to the issue under consideration. The report must have a clear purpose and expectations, must be presented in the most appropriate report structure, must have information that is well supported with facts from reliable sources to express credibility of the information, and finally the report must be circulated to allow for responses from the relevant personnel’s. Addressing the responses of the report after circulating it allows for presentation of the final report to the appropriate personnel’s. (282) No matter how much experience you have in gathering information, collating it and using it to make recommendations, you will always face that level where your level of knowledge and skills are exceeded. Take heart. All is not lost. When this happens, consult an expert or specialist to clarify information and provide you with the feedback that you require. You will need to research further to find an appropriate specialist or expert to assist you. There are many ways in which to research for a specialist or an expert’s name. One of the best ways in which to research for specialists and experts is by performing an internet search. In the search browser, write the name of the type of expert or specialist that you require i.e. Toxicologist. Press Enter. A list of possible websites will appear. It is important to make sure that you choose a professional website that is recognised by the industry. Look for websites such as employer associations, WHS/WHS experts, industry groups and government bodies. Many of these websites will provide you with a list of recognised personnel. If you are not sure about the type of expert or specialist you are looking for, contact the website owners or business and ask for recommendations. In most cases, these personnel will be able to provide you with a list of personnel that you may consult with. Learning Task Two You have been asked to consult with an audiologist. Perform a search of the internet. What is the name of the website that you used? Employer association website (Hopkinsmedicine.org) and Audiology Australia website (10`) What is the URL Address? (www.audio.com). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/hearing-loss/what-is-an-audiologist and, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/serviceprofiles/audiologist-service (27) Where did you find the list of audiologists? Audiology Australia website https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/serviceprofiles/audiologist-service (16) If you cannot find the appropriate person to assist you what can you do? Consult the website owner or the business for recommendations regarding the speciality under considerations. (14) Workplace inspections are events that are planned as a pro-active way in which to identify hazards before they can develop into an injury or illness. There are no rules as to who can do a workplace inspection; however, it is recommended that the person who performs the inspection has experience in the work area. This person should be either a supervisor for that area or the Health and safety representative or safety officer. As part of the harmonisation of work health and safety, it is important that whoever performs the inspection consults with team members in the area. One of the goals of the harmonisation program is to foster a co-operative, consultative relationship between duty holders and the persons who they owe duties and their representatives. As part of this process, it is important that team members are provided with sufficient information to ensure that they can provide informed feedback to you. For example, a change measure has been put in place to improve productivity and ensure that the worker is not stressed due to the repetitive nature of their job. How can an improvement be identified if the worker is not aware of their previous work performance and whether the changes put in place achieve their goals if he does not know why the changes were made and the impact of those changes? Checklists can be used during the inspection to identify hazards. Checklists can help you identify the area of concern. For example, you may need to check whether workplace changes that have been implemented have ensured that the goals set have been met. Your organisation may have one type of checklist, or a series of checklists that are separate for each area, especially when job roles, equipment and plant are different. It is important to make sure that you use the correct checklist. This means that you should make sure that you are familiar with the location of the appropriate checklists on your organisations data base. If you do not have access to the data base and do not have a copy of the checklist, make sure that you obtain a copy of the appropriate checklist from the appropriate member of your team. Where an appropriate checklist is not available, you may need to make modifications to existing checklists. Many organisations provide schedules for workplace inspections. However, an inspection may also arise out of a problem that may have been reported by workplace personnel. Schedules are usually carried out according to the level of risk of an area. The higher the risk to the area, the more frequent the inspections should be. Variations to the frequency and detail of an inspection may arise out of the frequency of changes implemented in an area. Changes to an area may include new plant, equipment, refurbishments, projects and procedures. Once a workplace inspection has been completed, any items that require corrective action need to be addressed. This may mean that any hazards that are identified should be assigned to the appropriate personnel for review and this assignment should be documented as per your organisations procedures. Learning Task Three Design a checklist for your work area or an area that you are familiar with in the space provided below. Daily checklist for an automotive (Forklift) Name of the person Item of plant inspectedRegistration No. or ID CHECKLIST ITEMS Yes No Action Required Visual check of the Forklift from outside: (does the forklift look well maintained from outside?) Mechanical components: Battery charged and securely attached, is the gas tank secure? Cables to battery: Are they securely attached with none fraying Compliance plate and operational instructions readable Tyres, hoses, nuts, chain anchor, guards and pins in good condition Reversing beepers, lights, seatbelts and horns are all working Carriage teeth show no sign of wear or damage Operational checks of all braking system Test drive(gear shift, steering check) Check fork operations (lowering and tilting of forks, test lifting etc) (127) Complete an inspection of the area and identify two personnel that you would refer any problems to in regards to taking corrective action. (If no corrective action is required, still choose two points in your checklist and state who you would refer each to? How did you know or find out who to refer the issue to for corrective action? All the items on the check list were in good condition except for: Carriage teeth which show sign of wear and Compliance plate and operational instructions were not clearly readable. The two personnel to refer to are the area supervisor who would then direct me to the safety and health representative to explain why the forklift operational instructions were not readable as such a thing would expose workers to the danger of operating the forklift wrongly without any guidelines to consult to. Based on the inspection, I identified hazards that would arise to some injuries if not addresses like with the ignorance of compliance plate and readable instructions. Such insights enabled me to understand the duties of supervisor with regard to the daily work place inspection. I knew effective recommendations would come from such a worker. (136) Activity 1A – 1C 2. Contribute to compliance and workplace requirements 2.1 Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of workplace policies, procedures, processes and systems for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities 2.2 Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of WHS Acts, regulations, codes of practice and guidelines for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities 2.3 Identify duty holders and their range of duties 2.1 Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of workplace policies, procedures, processes and systems for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities 2.2 Contribute to identifying and complying with requirements of WHS Acts, regulations, codes of practice and guidelines for hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control activities A hazard is something that can cause harm in the workplace and a risk arises from the harm caused by the hazards, how serious the harm can be and the likelihood of it happening. When assessing risk it is important to review the information that is current. It is not wise to always assume that a risk occurs because processes are incorrect in the performing of the task that could cause the habit. For example, you may presume that a hazard arose out of human error. However, was the human error caused due to negligence, lack of support or complacency leading to a worker not following the correct protocols and procedure? Never try to resolve a problem without assessing the current procedures that are in place. Previous consultation may also provide a plethora of information. Previous views and concerns can contribute to the current cause of a risk. They may not have been considered important before but may actually have an impact now. A risk assessment should be carried out when: There is uncertainty about how a hazard may result in injury or illness The work activity involves a number of different hazards and there is an understanding about the hazards and how they interact to form greater hazards Changes in the workplace that may impact on the effectiveness of control measures Risk assessments should not be necessary when: Legislation requires that specific hazards are controlled in a special way A code of practice or other guidance sets out the control measures applicable to your situation; and There are well-known and effective controls used in your industry and that they are suited to the purposes set out in the workplace. These controls can be simply implemented. How to manage WHS Risks Code of Practice, p.10, 2011 At this stage, care should be taken to ensure that the established codes or recognised legislation is considered when assessing the risk. Check your exposure standards and provide workers with feedback in regards to the settings As part of maintaining a systematic approach to WHS Management, it is essential that the level of risk and organisational procedure will impact on the way in which hazards are prioritised. Hazards and associated risks are usually defined by their level of: Harm the hazard can cause It is recognised that the state of the global economy impacts on cash flow. This means that an organisation will need to change their priorities in the resolution of risk. Consultation with other stakeholders and key personnel will assist an organisation in determining the order in which a hazard can be resolved. Your employer will set the parameters in which decisions shall be prioritised. It is important that stakeholders are aware of these parameters. By drawing on the pool of human resources available a more informed decision will be made to ensure that hazards are prioritised according to the level of harm within the parameters set. The level of harm that workers will be exposed to; will usually place a high priority in the consultation process. However, at times cash flow and the availability of resources will impact the way in which WHS needs is prioritised. Cash flow is the budget that has been allocated to resolve the risk. In a dynamic global economy, organisations must be cautious in the amount that they allocate for the resolution of a hazard. The budget will also be influenced on what the organisation deems as reasonably practicable and will include the amount that the organisation believes that the risk is worth. Availability of resources relates to the amount of human resources are available to execute the change. Are there enough qualified personnel to execute the change? Are there enough personnel to relieve the personnel who are reassigned to work or be trained on the risk control measure? This will also be determined by cash flow. Organisations have different ways in which to prioritise the hazards and hazardous jobs and how they are managed. Hazards should be assigned the highest form of potential loss or injury when: There is a likelihood that people will be exposed to the risk, the level of exposure and the amount; and The potential consequences of being exposed to the hazard, which relates to how serious an injury will arise when people are exposed to the risk. A risk assessment must be performed when an activity is considered to be a high risk under WHS Regulations. All hazards have the ability to cause harm ranging from minor to serious injury and in some cases death. Risks should be assessed using a risk assessment. It is important that you: Consult with stakeholders Remember the research findings that you have found; and consider the impact that they will have on your work environment. When performing a risk assessment, it is essential that you consider how severe the harm can be to workers or those exposed to the risk by asking the following questions: What type of harm could occur? – How severe is the harm? Could it cause death serious injuries What factors could influence the severity of harm that occurs? = External or internal factors, whether the harm is immediate or gradual Could one failure lead to other failures? Could one event escalate into a serious event with more serious consequences? It is also important to consider what type of harm a hazard may cause. One incident for example may lead to a series of problems. If one or more event can be stopped or changed then a risk may be eliminated or reduced. It is important in this instance to identify where the problem started and then consider the impact in each step of the process. When assessing the harm that a hazard can cause, consider: The effectiveness of the control issue How work can be performed rather than relying on written manuals and procedures (Using the consultation process here can assist greatly in controlling harm) The situation and how they are normally meant to occur. For example, if equipment is maintained through regularly cleaning and maintenance, how often will breakdowns and failure to controls occur? When determining the likelihood of someone being harmed, consider: How often a task is performed How often are people close to the hazard? Has the incident occurred before – either in your workplace or elsewhere Many organisations develop a risk rating matrix that assists personnel in assigning a priority to a hazard and will assist you in prioritising the order in which hazards are resolved. Risk Rating Matrix How likely will someone end off work Death or disabled Several days off First Aid Very likely Could happen a lot Likely  Could happen occasionally Unlikely  Could happen, but only rarely Very unlikely Could happen, but probably never will Activity 2A- 2B 2.3 Identify duty holders and their range of duties All duty holders must do everything that is “reasonably practicable” to protect the work health and safety of everyone at the workplace. This duty of care falls on all: Employers Company directors Managers Supervisors Employees WHS representatives and committees Contractors The aim of regulations is to minimise risk of injury or illness at the workplace. The management and control of risk in the control of hazards and risks in the workplace and provide them opportunities to contribute and participate in the process. The Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice for example provides for workers to take a more proactive action in the decision making process through consultation. The more that workers and others participate and contribute to work health and safety, the more informed their decisions shall be. Duty holders under the Common Law duty of care need to prove to the satisfaction of the court that the actions that they have taken to protect others from risk are reasonable and practicable. Duty holders need to clearly know what their duty is, what the implications are for each group and what happens if they do not comply. Activity 2C 3. Contribute to workplace hazard identification 3.1 Use knowledge of hazards to advise individuals and parties of workplace hazards, the harms they may cause and how these harms are caused 3.2Apply knowledge of hazard identification to contribute to selecting techniques, tools and processes to identify workplace hazards 3.3Contribute to applying selected techniques, tools and processes 3.4Contribute to documenting hazard identification process and results 3.1 Use knowledge of hazards to advise individuals and parties of workplace hazards, the harms they may cause and how these harms are caused It is important that every day that you work, you are always on the lookout for any hazardous situations. Organisations will have procedures in place to document reporting on accidents, incidents and near misses. This should be part of the continuous improvement process to ensure that companies are working towards making the processes better at all times, and that they are maintaining the level of commitment they need to making the workplace a safe and healthy one for its employees. An effective continuous improvement process will allow everyone to get involved, thereby giving staff and managers a chance to take ownership and responsibility for the continual improvement within the organisation. This is particularly important when it comes to health and safety in the workplace, as this should be an area that is constantly being monitored and improved in all areas. Reports need to be communicated to relevant industry bodies, and to management and stakeholders so that the organisation can prove it is following rules and regulations that pertain to the reporting mechanisms for WHS principles. For continuous improvement to work well, all departments in an organisation should become involved, take ownership for, and be responsible for changes that arise out of suggestions to improve practices. Real results come from encouraging all staff, departments and managers to take ownership, responsibility and accountability of the improvement process. When all staff members are encouraged to take responsibility for their workplaces, and to ensure they are also responsible for maintaining records and a safe workplace, then they are likely to feel more empowered in the process. Some of the ways in which they can be advised of hazards in the workplace include; Company meetings Emails Blogs Newsletters Teleconferences Managers need to be accountable for the identification of potential hazards. Some of the ways in which they can do this include; General Observations Inspections Reports from other staff members Newsletters Surveys and Questionnaires Managers are responsible for the following in relation to identifying potential hazards in the workplace; Ensure all staff members are properly trainedConducting regular inspections of the work areas Ensure all staff members are properly trained Conducting regular inspections of the work areas Keep accurate records of incidents, accidents, near missesInvestigate areas of concern immediatelyEncourage staff to report any incidents or issues of concernProvide a safe working environment Keep accurate records of incidents, accidents, near misses Investigate areas of concern immediately Encourage staff to report any incidents or issues of concern Provide a safe working environment Accurate reports should always be kept in relation to accidents, incidents and even near misses as part of the continuous improvement process. If an organisation does not have a proper reporting procedure in place to keep track of these situations, a manager needs to develop and encourage the implementation of this procedure. Staff members should all be aware of the relevant policies and procedures and expectations in relation to the reporting of these issues, and what follow up action is required from them from a legal perspective. Recap Harm the hazard can cause It is recognised that the state of the global economy impacts on cash flow. This means that an organisation will need to change their priorities in the resolution of risk. Consultation with other stakeholders and key personnel will assist an organisation in determining the order in which a hazard can be resolved. Your employer will set the parameters in which decisions shall be prioritised. It is important that stakeholders are aware of these parameters. By drawing on the pool of human resources available a more informed decision will be made to ensure that hazards are prioritised according to the level of harm within the parameters set. The level of harm that workers will be exposed to; will usually place a high priority in the consultation process. However, at times cash flow and the availability of resources will impact the way in which WHS needs is prioritised. Activity 3A 3.2 – Apply knowledge of hazard identification to contribute to selecting techniques, tools and processes to identify workplace hazards One of the most important responsibilities that you will perform under WHS is the Identification, minimisation and control of Workplace Health and Safety Hazards. This resource and the following resources will give a step by step understanding of WHS in your workplace and the tools that you can use to assist you in maintaining control of risks in the workplace. To understand your legal requirements of risk Identification, control and resolution consult the How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice, which can be found in any of the regulator websites for your State/Territory. The aim of this resource and the resources listed above is to provide you with tools that you may use to assist you in the performance of your duties. You may also find that some of these tools are a normal part of your organisations Work Health and Safety Procedures. Under the WHS Act: Division One, Subdivision One; and As far as “reasonably practicable” in regards to WHS Hazard Identification, you should weigh up all options in regards to work health and safety by: Ensuring that you minimise or eliminate the chance of a risk or hazard arising That you determine the level of harm that may occur from the hazard or risk What each party that contributes to the process knows about eliminating or controlling the risk; The ways available to minimise or eliminate the risk; and The costs associated with the minimising or elimination of the risk. These options will be considered to determine whether you took the appropriate action in consideration of the procedures and controls (such as budgetary controls) put in place when you implemented steps to minimise or eliminate the risk. Division Two Division two relates to duty of care. In working within an organisation, you are required to ensure that the health and safety of others is not placed at risk. As part of the responsibility of staff, any risk identified in the workplace must be reported to the organisation. Your organisation will have policies and procedures in place, usually in the form of an accident/incident form. All incidents and accidents should be reported to the State/Territory regulator. The manner in which they are reported may vary for each State/Territory. Refer to the State/Territory Regulator for your area to determine the correct steps for the reporting of accident/incidents. Your organisation may also provide you with procedures which are followed in the generation of an accident/incident report. There may be times in which you are completing a risk assessment. Conversely workers may identify a hazard and report the risk to you. Yet other times when a hazard is identified in the normal course of business. When a hazard is identified you may be required to use hazard identification tools, techniques, processes and methods may include: Analysis of injury and claims statistics An increase in claims or injury should be followed up with an analysis of work health and safety. Injury and claims statistics can assist you in identifying causes of injury in the workplace. It is important to make sure that all hazards identified and injuries are reported as per your organisational procedures. Care should also be taken when a potential for an injury is identified. Near misses, such as tripping that do not lead to injury can end up being causes of injury. When a trend in a specific type of injury or near miss is identified, steps should be taken to ensure that follow up action is taken. Audits Audits are part of any organisations quality assurance process. The aim of an audit is to measure all of your organisations system and identify where improvements to the system can be made, especially if any non-compliance issues arise. These issues may be found in Australian Standards and industry Standards such as AS/NZS 4801 and 4360. Continuously auditing your organisations work health and safety system will ensure that you meet your legal obligations of improving health and safety in the workplace. Action should be taken to minimise or eliminate any gaps that you identify in your WHS system. Body mapping Body mapping is a tool used by many countries to identify the lay of the land. This means that all of your body is mapped over a period of time. At another designated time, your body would be mapped again. Changes to the body such as varicose veins, degradation to various body parts such as bowels and liver and changes in body mass are mapped. The systematic zoning of the body allows for identification of problems in the performance of a worker’s duties. For example, if several staff members had a large increase in varicose veins, a risk assessment of all of the possible causes of varicose veins would be assessed. As a result of the body map, the risk is identified and workers can be treated by minimising or eliminating the risk or hazard. Checklists for hazard identification Checklists can be used to help identify hazards in the workplace and ensure that the risk is controlled. Checklists may be used to review previous changes for improvement or to identify other risks. Consultation with workers, clients or other users The Work Health and Safety Consultation Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice allow employers to ensure that your legal obligation in regards to WHS is maintained in the workplace. Consultation is not only a legal and essential part of managing health and safety in the workplace, it acts as a way to ensure that as much information is collected to ensure the best informed decisions are made. Refer to these documents to further review the: Identification of employee concerns, such as through a hazard reporting system; and how you would obtain input of managers, WHS representatives, WHS committee and others through consultative processes. Interviews Interviews are an excellent way of gathering information. Using questions to gather information can be enhanced with the knowledge of what different types of questioning hope to achieve. Different questioning techniques include: Open ended questions – What, where, when, why, which or how can be used to obtain an explanation, where as Closed ended questions can ensure that you obtain a one worded answer such as yes or no. Closed questions can be used to control the response that you obtain, while open ended questions give the other party a chance to provide you with more information. Clarifying questions can be used to clarify details to ensure that you have obtained a correct understanding of the information that you have been provided with. For example, did you mean to say, that the worker slipped on a...