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RMS WHS Procedure: PN 066P02 (for Policy No. PN066)
Risk Management
Procedure
1 of 27
Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
2 of 27
Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Contents
1 Purpose...................................................................................................................................................... 3
2 Scope ......................................................................................................................................................... 3
3 General requirements ............................................................................................................................... 3
4 Definitions ................................................................................................................................................. 4
5 Responsibilities.......................................................................................................................................... 5
6 Understanding the risk management process .......................................................................................... 6
Figure 1: Overview of the risk management process. ....................................................................... 6
6.1 Consultation requirements .............................................................................................................. 6
6.2 Step 1: Establish the context.......................................................................................................... 7
6.3 Step 2: Identify hazards and risks .................................................................................................... 7
6.4 Step 3: Analyse the risk ................................................................................................................. 10
6.5 Step 4 – Evaluate/assess the risk ................................................................................................... 13
6.5.1 Conducting health and safety inspections within RMS.................................................................. 15
6.6 Step 5 – Control/treat the risks...................................................................................................... 17
Figure 2: The Hierarchy of Controls ................................................................................................. 17
6.7 Undertake monitoring and review................................................................................................. 21
7 Risk management in emergencies........................................................................................................... 22
8 Training, supervision and information to support health and safety ..................................................... 23
9 Related information ................................................................................................................................ 25
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
1 Purpose
Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) is committed to ensuring the health and safety of its workers and others by effectively managing workplace risks and hazards. The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that RMS managers and workers comply with legislative requirements and its own Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) standards.
This procedure is designed to provide guidance to RMS staff, contractors and business partners in managing health and safety risks in the workplace.
RMS managers must comply with and implement the requirements of this procedure.
2 Scope
This procedure covers all RMS workplaces and/or work conducted by RMS workers and includes:
RMS workers, such as employees, contractors or subcontractors, an employee of a contractor or subcontractor, labour hire, apprentices, trainees, work experience students and volunteers
Other duty holders who carry out work for RMS or who are likely to be directly affected by a matter relating to work health or safety
All RMS workers must comply with this procedure. Contractors are also required to have in place an equivalent procedure for WHS risk management that meets the same standards.
3 General requirements
RMS (through its managers) is committed to and will ensure, as far as possible, active risk management strategies and procedures. These strategies will include consultation with RMS workers and their representatives, and other duty holders, including contractors and subcontractors.
Hazard identification and risk management are critical elements of WHS. These must be integrated into all RMS’ work activities. All appropriate steps must be taken to identify any foreseeable workplace hazard/s that pose a risk to RMS workers and others. Effective risk management is vital in providing best WHS standards.
WHS risk management is integral to RMS’ planning and operational processes. RMS promotes a culture of and empowers workers in the management of risk.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Effective risk management requires managers, supervisors and workers to understand the nature of hazards in their workplaces. They should be able to systematically identify, analyse, evaluate, treat, monitor and review WHS risks associated with workplace hazards. Good WHS outcomes depend on everyone’s commitment and cooperation.
This procedure outlines responsibilities for all managers, workers and other duty holders in applying risk management practices within their work areas. This is important for effective WHS risk management, as those who are closest to the risks will have the knowledge and skills to best manage them.
NOTE: If RMS managers, workers or other duty holders would like further information about how to undertake risk management at any stage, they should:
Refer to the How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks: Code of Practice, or
Communicate with their local health and safety representative (HSR) or WHS facilitator.
4 Definitions
Definitions related to this procedure are specified in Appendix A.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
5 Responsibilities
RMS (through its managers from the executive down to the front line) must:
Satisfy the requirements of this procedure
Ensure WHS responsibilities are appropriately defined
Support managers and supervisors in risk assessment
Provide consultation and training to managers and workers
Provide managers and workers with appropriate resources to conduct WHS responsibilities competently
Participate in incident investigation
RMS managers must:
Allocate adequate resources to implement WHS policies, procedures and programs
Implement and monitor procedures for identifying, assessing and controlling WHS risks
Ensure that all measures that are taken to eliminate or control risks are properly used and maintained
Make sure that all members of the work group have the opportunity to contribute to decisions impacting on their health and safety
Ensure that plant, equipment, tools and materials purchased or hired by the RMS are safe and risk-free for workplace health and safety
Provide the necessary information, training and appropriate supervision to all RMS staff
Maintain appropriate WHS records for legal compliance
Ensure that contractors and suppliers have access to WHS risk management procedures
RMS workers and other duty holders must:
Assist management in identifying workplace hazards
Follow safe working procedures
Report all hazards in the workplace
Comply with RMS WHS policies and procedures
Participate in WHS consultation and training. Apply the skills taught in the workplace.
Wear and maintain issued personal protective equipment (PPE)
1. Establish the Context
2. Identify Hazards and Risks
3. Analyse Risks
4. Evaluate / Assess Risks
5. Control / Treat Risks
Decide on and use appropriate control measures .
Co
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& C
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6 Understanding the risk management process
The following section comprehensively describes how risk management processes within RMS are fully implemented. The process is summarised in the following diagram.
Figure 1: Overview of the risk management process.
6.1 Consultation requirements
Communication and consultation must happen at all stages of the risk management process. This needs to involve the people affected by the work activity. It should also take into account any related WHS hazards and risks.
At a minimum, RMS must ensure that consultation occurs at all stages of the risk management process:
Between duty holders, where a duty is shared for a work activity
With RMS workers
For information about specific consultation requirements, RMS managers, workers and other duty holders need to refer to the RMS Consultation Procedure.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
6.2 Step 1: Establish the context
Understanding the context is necessary for effective risk management. To help with this insight, the following questions should be asked:
What do RMS workers do at the worksite or area being assessed?
Who are the individuals that may affect or be affected by risk management decisions?
What is the scope and objective of the risk assessment?
Identify the risk assessment team - who needs to be involved?
Identify the relevant legislation, policy and procedures you will need to reference.
6.3 Step 2: Identify hazards and risks
A hazard is anything that can cause harm to a person. It is important to identify all situations or events that could cause harm. Some ways of identifying hazards include:
Conducting regular, systematic inspections of the workplace and maintaining records of the inspections and outcomes
Reviewing past incidents
Observing workplace activities
Trying to predict potential hazards by asking ‘what if?’ questions
Seeking staff opinions within the workplace concerned, involving their representatives including HSRs. This may be during regular staff meetings or through other targeted strategies
Having HS committee members and/or HSRs assist in identifying hazards
NOTE: Hazards must be actively identified. Times when this must occur include:
Before performing a task/work activity
Before using a premises as a place of work
Before and during the installation, erection, commissioning, or alteration of plant
Before changes to work practices and systems of work are introduced
Before hazardous substances are introduced
Whilst work is carried out
When relevant health and safety information becomes available
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
The most effective way to identify workplace hazards may be through a workplace inspection. Task/work activity review, observation, audits, incident reports are also very effective. These activities should be conducted regularly in each work area with the aim of identifying hazards that may typically be overlooked. A prioritised list of identified hazards should be produced after each inspection. Examples of hazards and risks include:
Examples of Hazards
Examples of Risks
Falls from height Falls to lower levels Manual handling Sprains and strains Mobile plant Struck by plant Electricity Electrocution/shock Knives Cuts Hot surfaces Burns Welding Fume/gas inhalation Radiation Exposure to radiation Chemicals Skin/eye contact, ingestion
Below is a checklist of prompts, work and environmental factors to help identify workplace hazards. This is not an exhaustive checklist, but provides ideas that will get you thinking.
PAST EXPERIENCE
Existing records can highlight uncontrolled hazards at work:
Workers’ compensation
Accident, incident and hazard reports (RMS Ensafe System)
Audit and inspection reports
WHS committee meetings
WORK ENVIRONMENT FACTORS
The following information details hazards that are often present in the workplace
1. Environmental Hazards
Hazards in the work environment may pose a health and safety risk. Instances of when this may occur include:
Hot/cold temperatures
Lighting
Noise
Workplace condition and layout
Contaminated atmosphere
Moving or falling objects
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Dust
Vibration
Radiation
Electricity
Working in water
Fire
Ventilation
Floors
Manual handling
Working at heights
Work station design
Blasting or explosive work
Overhead or underground utilities
Vehicle / traffic movement
Presence of asbestos in the place of work
Terrain
Confined space
2. Work/Organisational Factors
Staffing levels
Availability of appropriate equipment
Work schedules
Shift work
Work pace
Task variety
Rest breaks and recovery time
Work practices and systems of work
Interaction with customers
Appropriate instruction, training and information
Availability of appropriate safety clothing/ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
3. Hazardous substances and dangerous goods
Some substances used at work may be classed as dangerous goods and/or a hazardous substance. Special care must be given to these types of substances when performing the following actions, as these may be hazardous:
Producing
Handling
Storage
Transport
Disposal
4. Plant
Plant pose significant health and safety risk and must be given special consideration at the following times, as these may be hazardous:
Installation
Erection
Commissioning
Use
Maintenance
Dismantling
Storage
Transport
Repair Disposal
OTHER USEFUL SOURCES OF INFORMATION FOR IDENTIFYING HAZARDS
Information to assist with identifying hazards is available from numerous other sources, including:
Any health and safety information from the supplier/manufacturer of any plant
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
The label on containers of hazardous substances
The register of installed asbestos for any place of work with installed asbestos
Results of biological monitoring related to the use of hazardous substances
Results of monitoring of atmospheric contaminants.
Guidelines of other WHS policies will provide additional information on identifying particular work-related hazards.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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6.4 Step 3: Analyse the risk
Assessing WHS risks is a way of determining the likelihood or potential a hazard will cause injury or ill health to anyone at or near a workplace. The number of people exposed to the hazard and the duration and frequency of exposure will also influence the level of risk. After identifying a hazard, an assessment of its associated risks must be performed.
This step requires you to:
1. Estimate consequences (how bad could the injury be) – fatality, lost time injury (LTI), medical treatment (MTI), first aid (minor injury)
2. Estimate the likelihood of the consequence, taking into account any existing controls that are in place
3. Determine the level of each risk
Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
To determine the level of risk that is attached to a hazard, a formula can be used. This is provided as follows:
Note: The following information provides information on how to calculate the risk level.
Risk Assessment Formula:
Consequence (1) X Likelihood (2) = Risk Level (3)
(Likelihood = Probability X Exposure)
When determining the risk level, the following prompts and information should be considered:
Prompts and information to consider when determining the risk level
Consequence (1) – How bad could the injury be
Likelihood of Consequence occurring (2)
- Where Likelihood = Probability x Exposure
Considerations include:
- What are the consequences of exposure in the short term?
- What are the consequences of exposure in the long term?
- What is the history of injuries related to exposure of that hazard?
- How close is the worker to the hazard?
- What is the energy level of the hazard (i.e. weight, voltage, volume, amplitude, height above ground, concentration, aggressive state)?
- If the substance is hazardous, what are the health effects associated with:
- Ingesting it
- Inhaling it
- Absorbing it through the skin or the eyes
Considerations include:
- How often is the work task performed?
- What is the duration of exposure – time period of exposure i.e. 5 min, 1 hour, 1 shift
- What is the frequency of exposure – How often i.e. constant exposure, twice per shift, etc
- What is the dose / concentration of exposure?
- Existing Controls
- Consider existing controls that may effect the likelihood of the consequence occurring i.e.:
- Are engineering controls preventing exposure?
- Does the layout and condition of the workplace affect exposure?
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
- Are abnormal conditions reasonably foreseeable, resulting in a greater exposure?
- Do workers have the appropriate skills and knowledge to perform the task?
To determine the risk level/rating, the following risk assessment reckoner (matrix) should be used. This rating then forms the basis for action prioritisation.
WHS Risk Assessment Reckoner/Matrix
LIKELIHOOD - HOW LIKELY IS THE CONSEQUENCE TO
OCCUR?
CONSEQUENCES – HOW BAD IS IT LIKELY TO BE?
Very Likely to happen
(VL)
Likely to happen. has occurred in
the past
(L)
Unlikely to
happen, but rare
(U)
Very Unlikely could
happen, but probably never
will (VU)
Extreme – fatality, or cause permanent disability or ill health
(K) 1 1 2 3
Major – long term illness or Injury > 5 days of work
(S) 1 2 3 4
Moderate – medical attention, or < 5 days off work
(M) 2 3 4 5
Minor – first aid needed (F) 3 4 5 6
(Adapted from WorkCover's HAZPACK Worksheet and AS 4360 Risk Management.)
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
NOTE: There will be times when risk assessments will need to be reviewed. These include:
When a new hazard is identified
When there is an incident from exposure to a hazard
When there is a change in the place of work, or in work practices or procedures.
6.5 Step 4 – Evaluate/assess the risk
Assessing WHS risks is a way of determining the likelihood that a hazard will cause injury or ill health to anyone at or near the workplace, and the potential consequences of the injury or illness. The number of people exposed to the hazard and the duration and frequency of exposure will also influence the level of risk. After identifying a hazard, an assessment of its associated risks must be performed.
Methods of assessment must include at least one of the following:
Visual inspection Auditing Testing Technical or scientific evaluation Analysis of injury or near-miss data Discussions with designers, manufacturers, suppliers, staff or other
relevant parties Quantitative hazard analysis.
Hazards must be identified and risks assessed:
Before introducing any plant or a substance Before introducing a new work practice or procedure Before changing a workplace work practice, or an activity or process,
where the change might create a health and safety risk.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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The following table outlines the required action by RMS managers in response to the assessed risk rating.
Required action by RMS managers for specific risk ratings
Risk Rating Action Required
1 Cease activity until controls are used to reduce risk
Immediate and urgent senior management action required
2 Significant risk ‐ take immediate action
3 & 4 Medium risk ‐ take action by due date
5 & 6 Low risk ‐ manage by current routine procedures
There are many types of risk assessment. These are outlined in the following table:
Examples of types of risk assessment
Common types of risk assessment
Explanation
Hazard-based risk assessment
Hazards are identified through site inspections, audits, incident reports, work observations/interactions
The risk is assessed
Risk controls are implemented
Safe work method statements (SWMS) – these are typically used in construction work
Job safety analysis (JSA) – these are typically used for one-off type tasks and are more detailed than a SWMS
Staff/standard operating procedures – these are repetitive type tasks
Plant/equipment risk assessments – these are typically undertaken prior to the use of plant/equipment to identify hazards associated with the plant and its use
Task/work activity risk assessments – usually undertaken for tasks/work activity resulting in either:
Scenario risk assessments – these are typically undertaken to identify and prepare evacuation or rescue procedures for emergency situations that may occur onsite, such as:
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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Explosion
Building collapse
Flood
Cyclone
Armed hold-up
Excavation collapse
Confined space engulfment
Others
6.5.1 Conducting health and safety inspections within RMS
The following information provides RMS-specific detail about how inspections are conducted at RMS workplaces.
Why have inspections?
Inspections are conducted, as part of RMS’ commitment to health and safety at its workplaces. Additionally, it reflects RMS’ adherence to its WHS policy, objectives and targets. Examples of inspections include:
Inspection of potentially hazardous processes to ensure that the controls are effective
Inspection of plant such as pressure vessels to conform with specified, regulatory requirements
Inspection of a work area to ensure that specific site safety rules have been followed.
Conducting inspections
An inspection may be done by either an individual or by a team. Appropriately competent people such as WHS facilitators, health and safety representatives (HSRs), committee members, technicians or managers may perform the role of an inspector.
NOTE: An inspection team should be established by the manager of the area and should, as a minimum, comprise the:
Immediate manager
HSR
A WHS facilitator may be present to assist in undertaking the inspection.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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Inspection checklists
The RMS has various WHS checklists available on the intranet that cover issues relating to plant, work environment, and site safety rules. Examples of WHS inspection checklists are:
G22 inspection checklist
Manual handling
Daily plant inspection
WHS On-site Verification Checklist
Depot WHS Inspection Checklist
WHS Registry Inspection Checklist.
Follow up on Safety Improvement Notices (SINs)
SINs are issued by the WHS facilitators and are the result of an identified non-conformance in either a control measure or a safe system of work. Following up on SINs is necessary to show that:
Remedial or preventative action has been initiated/implemented
Internal service providers and contractors have been informed
Compliance has been met
The system for implementing control measures or safe systems of work are effective
Cooperation
Employees should cooperate and provide any assistance necessary for the inspector or team to exercise its function.
6.6 Step 5 – Control/treat the risks
NOTE: This step requires you to:
Identify control options – using Hierarchy of Controls
Assess control options
Implement controls
Determine residual level of risk
Monitor and review controls.
After identifying the hazard(s), risk(s), and the level of risk for each risk, it is now necessary to identify and implement appropriate risk control(s). Where no single measure is sufficient for this, a number or combination of risk controls is usually required.
When determining control measures to adopt, the Hierarchy of Control must be applied. This is outlined in the following figure.
Figure 2: The Hierarchy of Controls
The following table provides information about potential control measures. It is a guide from most preferred to least preferred risk control measures. The most effective risk controls available should be used.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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Examples of Control Measures in the Hierarchy of Control
HIERARCHY OF CONTROLS
EXAMPLE OF SPECIFIC CONTROLS
Get rid of the hazard from the workplace
Eliminate the hazard
(the most effective and best option, if it can be done)
Redesign of the work process to eliminate exposure
Redesign the work process to remove the hazard
Try to replace or change the hazard to lower the risk from the hazard
Substitute the hazard
Consider using air-powered instead of electric powered tools
Consider using water-based paints rather than solvent based ones
Try to isolate the hazard
Isolate the hazard Insulation (i.e. sound proofing or insulation from the heat)
Guarding on machines
Design and install equipment to counteract the hazard
Engineer out the hazard Lifting devices Exhaust ventilation system to extract dangerous fumes or dust
Arrange work so people spend less time around the hazard and ensure that they understand the hazard and the controls
Implement administrative controls
WHS related training
Develop SWMS for staff to follow
Restricted access to certain work areas i.e. confined space
Operator certification for plant
Clear labelling / signage
Job rotation
Staff support systems
Restrict exposure time
Implement personal
Have people wear protective equipment and clothing while near the hazard
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protective equipment
(NOTE: This is the least effective and preferred option).
Things to consider.
Is it appropriate for the staff member?
Does it control the risk for that staff member?
Is the staff member informed of any limitations?
Has the staff member been given instruction and training on the proper use of PPE?
Is it properly maintained and repaired or replaced as frequently as is necessary?
Is it provided in a clean and hygienic condition?
Is it stored in a place provided by the employer for that purpose?
Are areas where PPE must be used clearly identified?
Examples of PPE
Clothes
Respirator
Gloves
Helmets
Wide-brimmed hats
Goggles
Safety Footwear
High visibility vests
Ear plugs and ear muffs
Sun-screen
Guidelines for other WHS policies provide additional information on control measures for specific work-related hazards.
Completion of the following tool will assist RMS managers in developing effective control measures:
Name of Activity
Example: Bitumen spraying during summer
Referenced/Act/Regulation/Code/Policy and
Procedure
Hazards and Risks Consequence?How
likely?
Risk
rating
What can be done to eliminate or minimise risk to health and
safety?
Example:
Hot weather – heat stress / exhaustion M VL 2
Job rotation; Reduce frequency of heavy manual work; Provide cool
water; Wear loose clothing with long sleeves; Rest in the shade
Date: ____/____/____ Supervisor’s signature: ____________________
Signatures of people who participated in the risk assessment: ____________________
____________________ ____________________ ____________________
____________________ ____________________ ____________________
____________________ ____________________ ____________________
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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6.7 Undertake monitoring and review
Throughout the risk management process monitoring and review must occur to ensure effectiveness of actions, and to ensure that no new hazards and related risks have been introduced. Monitoring and review should also be done following occasions of successful control of previous workplace hazards. This is especially important where actions taken to eliminate hazards or minimize WHS risks have worked and continue to be effective.
Systematic monitoring and review determines or identifies:
The successes achieved in dealing with identified hazards New hazards.
New hazards that may have been inadvertently created through a risk response may happen because of:
Use of new technology, equipment or substances Use of new work practices or procedures (including unfamiliarity with
these) Introduction of changes within the work environment Introduction of new staff with different experience and competencies.
NOTE: Incorporating WHS and hazard management into the annual planning process is an effective way of achieving the aim of an incident-free workplace. Managers should set up a timetable to periodically inspect worksites to:
Ensure that new control measures are effective
Review risk assessments on current hazards
Identify any new actual or potential hazards
Raise new issues at staff meetings
Encourage input from staff at any time, if processes are not effective
Not only new control measures needs to be measured for effectiveness – controls may become less effective over time. Records on risk management processes (such as the Hazard Report Form) must be kept, and these can help the review process.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
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7 Risk management in emergencies
It is inevitable that emergencies could happen. Therefore, RMS worksites must have adequate processes that deal with emergencies and minimize their impacts (i.e. to control their associated risks).
Although emergency events are rare, it is necessary to identify potential emergency scenarios. There should also be appropriate response plans and procedures (prepared in advance) and then periodically test them. When developing emergency response plans and procedures, it is necessary to do a risk assessment, taking into account:
The type and nature of the hazards in the workplace and its environs
The size and location of the workplace
The number and mobility of persons at the workplace.
The following table provides some information about risk management for emergencies. How RMS manages emergency situations is detailed in the Emergency Planning and Response Procedure. RMS managers, workers and other duty holders should refer to this procedure for more specific information.
Summary of emergency risk management activities
RISK MANAGEMENT FOR EMERGENCIES
Examples To include
Em
erg
ency
Res
po
nse
Pla
n
Fire/explosion
Bomb threats
Major and minor spills
Life threatening events
Installation or availability of suitable warnings and alarms that are tested regularly (i.e. testing of evacuation alarms)
Appointment and training of responsible persons during emergencies (i.e. Fire Wardens)
Contact details of emergency services (i.e. fire brigade, spill cleanup services)
Internal and external communication plans
Appointment of Fire Wardens
Evacuation procedures including assembly points are on display and in appropriate locations at work
Emergency rescue equipment available and maintained in good working order (i.e. fire extinguisher maintenance, fire escapes kept clean)
Summary of information useful for emergency services (i.e. register of hazardous substances)
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Inci
den
ts i
nvo
lvin
g
emp
loye
e First Aid
Injury management
Appropriate first aid facilities that comply with the legislative requirements and are relevant to the site hazards and risk assessment
The number of trained first aid attendant will be determined through a risk assessment
Processes are in place to provide injured staff with timely and appropriate rehabilitation
Further details of the RMS requirements are available in policies for first aid and injury management
Inci
den
t R
eco
ver
y P
lan
(I
RP
)
Incident counselling
Identify who is to coordinate traumatic incident counselling
Provide debriefing, counselling and assistance to staff immediately after the trauma in a confidential environment
Provide debriefing, counselling and assistance to family of the affected staff member
8 Training, supervision and information to support health and safety
The following table provides information about WHS-related training, supervision and handling information:
AREA INFORMATION
Information
Providing appropriate information to RMS managers and employees, their representatives and other interested parties is a requirement of the WHS Act. The following WHS information must be provided to employees as required:
Manufacturer’s or designer’s instructions for safe operation of plant
Information on hazards and controls in each work process commensurate with the level of risk
First aid and emergency arrangements
Labels and material safety data sheets (MSDS) for hazardous substances.
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Supervision
A supervisor of workers is required to ensure the health and safety of their workers.
When supervising, the following factors each employee need to be taken into account:
Competence to perform their work
Experience in performing their work.
Certain types of work may requires close supervision such as:
Excavation work
Work in confined spaces
Work in tunnels
Work on cofferdams and caissons.
Managers and employees are required by the WHS Act to have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their work task safely. Training that may be required include:
Training
Regulatory training requirements:
Health and safety representative training
Hazardous substances
Manual handling
Plant operator training
Use and care of PPE
RMS training resources:
Supervisor training
Managing aggressive and violent behaviour
RMS Plant operator training
Qualifications are required for the following work:
Scaffolding
Dogging
Rigging
Operation and use of:
Cranes
Hoists
Truck-mounted concrete-placing booms
Boilers
Steam turbines
Reciprocating steam engines
Load shifting machines
Application of pesticides
Use of fumigants
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Records and Information Management
The following records must be maintained:
Permits to work Material safety data sheets (MSDSs) Risk assessments, where a SWMS is required WHS training activity Inspections Calibration and maintenance activity Monitoring data Details of incidents, complaints and follow-up action Supplier and contractor information WHS audits and reviews.
9 Related information
Reference Documents:
Work Health and Safety Act 2011
Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Appendix A Definitions
Consultation
The two-way exchange between RMS managers and RMS workers and between RMS managers and other duty holders that involves sharing information about health and safety. It gives RMS workers a reasonable opportunity to express their views relating to a work health and safety matter, with those views taken into account when decisions are made. Note that agreement does not have to be reached, however, opinions must be considered when making decisions that affect a person’s health, safety and welfare.
Hazard A situation in the workplace that has the potential to harm the health and safety of people or to damage plant and equipment. The situation could involve a task, chemical or equipment used.
Hazard management
A problem-solving process aimed at defining problems (identifying hazards), gathering information about them (risk assessment) and solving them (risk control). This is followed up by checking to see that the controls were successful (evaluation) and reviewing the whole process (review) after a period of time or when something changes.
Incident
Any accident or event that occurs in the course of work, which involves:
Work illnesses
Disabling injuries
Minor injuries
Dangerous occurrences which could have, but did not injure any person
Serious equipment plant or property damage
Uncontrolled fire and explosions
Exposures to hazardous substances or circumstances
Any other serious incident that could put employees or plant at risk.
Issue resolution The framework guiding the rectification of health and safety issues when they arise.
Other duty holders Refers to persons with a shared WHS responsibility for a work activity, including contractors and subcontractors.
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Procedure: Risk Management Effective date: 16/11/12
Version: 2.0 Approved by: Stephen Barton, General Manager, WHS Last updated: 16/11/2012 UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Risk The possibility that harm (death, injury or illness) might occur when exposed to a hazard.
WHS risk management
The systematic management of workplace hazards.
RMS workers Includes RMS employees, contractors or subcontractors, an employee of a contractor or subcontractor, labour hire, apprentices, trainees, work experience students and volunteers
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