School of Environmental and Life Sciences Occupational Health

School of Environmental and Life Sciences Occupational Health and Safety Induction For all Staff, Students and Visitors 2012

Welcome to the School of Environmental and Life Sciences The University (as a PCBU) has an Primary Duty of Care to workers under the WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY (NATIONAL UNIFORM LEGISLATION) ACT and REGULATIONS to provide a safe workplace. n To assist in meeting its obligations the University has this induction program to provide you with knowledge of occupational health and safety factors in the workplace. n As an worker you have an obligation to follow safe working procedures at all times, and to take all reasonable precautions to prevent personal injury or injury to others and damage to plant and equipment. n This session will enable you to complete the University New employee health and safety checklist and it requires you to tick off each action as it is completed. Check with your supervisor on any actions which are not completed by the end of the first week. New employee health and safety checklist

Contents: n Legislation – Including the Work Health and Safety Act and Regulations n The Charles Darwin University Work Health Safety policy and related processes n PCBU and Worker definitions under the Work Health and Safety Act n Managers and Supervisors n Workplace Health and Safety Committees – University and Faculty n Workgroups and Workplace Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) n Reporting and Resolution of Occupational Health and Safety issues n Inspections n Safe Work Procedures (SWP’s) and Risk Assessments n Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS’s) n Labelling of chemicals n Hazards - Identification, Assessment, Reporting and Control n Faculty and School safety procedures and practices n Workers Compensation and Rehabilitation n Manual Handling n Ergonomic Assessment n First Aid n Emergencies and the University Emergency Management Plan

Legislation The Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Act and Regulations q Protecting workers and other persons against harm to their health, safety and welfare through the elimination or minimisation of risks arising from work or from specified types of substances or plant q Providing for fair and effective workplace representation, consultation, cooperation and issue resolution in relation to work health and safety q Promoting the provision of advice, information, education and training in relation to work health and safety q Providing a framework for continuous improvement and progressively higher standards of work health and safety

Legislation cont’d The aim of the Act is to protect workers at work by promoting a culture of safety awareness. Both the Act and the Regulations have mandatory requirements and fines for breaches of the Act and regulations are outlined within the documents. Codes of Practice under the Act provide practical guidance on how a health and safety standard can be achieved. These are mandatory requirements and should be followed. Minimum standards are stated and if there is another solution which achieves the same or better standard of health and safety it may be used Australian Standards provide guidance on how a standard can be achieved. These standards are developed by Standards Australia and contain requirements that should be followed. Minimum standards are stated and if there is another solution which achieves the same or better standard of health and safety it may be used. NEED HELP – ASK YOUR HEALTH AND SAFETY REPRESENTATIVE

University Policy n The University recognises its corporate responsibility under the Northern Territory Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Act and Regulations and associated legislation. This policy provides the framework to enable the University to fulfill its commitment to providing a healthy and safe workplace and to eliminating conditions and incidents that could result in personal injury or ill health. n University has guidelines and processes based on the Workplace Health and Safety Act and Regulations, Codes of Practice and Australian Standards. Must read Work Health and Safety Policy

PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) For the purposes of this Act, a person conducts a business or undertaking: (a) whether the person conducts the business or undertaking alone or with others; and (b) whether or not the business or undertaking is conducted for profit or gain. (2) A business or undertaking conducted by a person includes a business or undertaking conducted by a partnership or an unincorporated association. (3) If a business or undertaking is conducted by a partnership (other than an incorporated partnership), a reference in this Act to a person conducting the business or undertaking is to be read as a reference to each partner in the partnership. (4) A person does not conduct a business or undertaking to the extent that the person is engaged solely as a worker in, or as an officer of, that business or undertaking. (5) An elected member of a local authority does not in that capacity conduct a business or undertaking. (6) The Regulations may specify the circumstances in which a person may be taken not to be a person who conducts a business or undertaking for the purposes of this Act or any provision of this Act.

Worker A person is a worker if the person carries out work in any capacity for a person conducting a business or undertaking, including work as: (a) an employee; or (b) a contractor or subcontractor; or (c) an employee of a contractor or subcontractor; or (d) an employee of a labour hire company who has been assigned to work in the person's business or undertaking; or (e) an outworker; or (f) an apprentice or trainee; or (g) a student gaining work experience; or (h) a volunteer The person conducting the business or undertaking is also a worker if the person is an individual who carries out work in that business or undertaking.

Managers and Supervisors Specific Responsibilities of staff in a management or supervisory capacity are detailed in the CDU Work Health Policy and include: n n n n providing leadership in best practice Work Health and Safety provide the appropriate budget for achieving the University’s Work Health and Safety standards ensure that the University community is provided with information, instruction, training and supervision to enable them to perform tasks in a manner that is safe and minimises or eliminates risk to health be responsible for implementing and maintaining Work Health and Safety standards and practices in workplace areas of responsibility under their control. This includes the need to ensure that the standards and practices adopted conform to legislative requirements and the provisions of University policies respond to and take appropriate action on recommendations in inspection and other reports relating to Work Health and Safety issues/matters. deal with health and safety issues raised by staff or students in accordance with University procedures address and action Work Health and Safety issues/matters at staff/team meetings

Health and Safety Committees n Charles Darwin University has a University Health and Safety Group and Workplace Health and Safety Committees n The groups meet on a regular basis to discuss, resolve and communicate OHS issues to the university and back to the workers

University Health and Safety Group (UHSG) n The University Health and Safety Group (UHSG) comprises representatives (usually the chairperson) from each of the Workplace Health and Safety Committees (WHSC) of the university. n The group is chaired by the Executive Director of Corporate Services and has the Manager of Health Safety and Environment (or proxy) in attendance. n The group meets on a regular basis to resolve OHS issues raised by WAG and to discuss policy and procedure and legislative requirements. n The Workgroup Health and Safety Representatives are also invited to attend n Meetings are minuted and available for all staff through their local HSr of WHSC.

Workplace Health and Safety Committee (WHSC) n The Workplace Health and Safety Committee (WHSC) comprises representatives from work groups or areas in each faculty or department for OHS matters. n The group meets six times per year (minimum) to discuss, resolve and communicate OHS issues to the University and the workers n There is an OHS link on the Faculty Homepage to the WHSC Workplace Health and Safety Committee

Work Groups and Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) n Work Groups are established at the University and the University actively supports the election of Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs). n This is in line with the requirements for consultation, representation and participation under the NT Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Act 2011. n Further information about Work Groups and Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) at CDU is available from: Workgroups and Health and Safety Representatives.

Reporting and Resolution of OHS issues n Initially the OHS issue should be discussed with your supervisor n Should the supervisor not be able to assist, the matter should be referred to your Health and Safety Representative on the Faculty Workplace Health and safety Committee and/or seek advice from Health, Safety and Environment (HSE). n There are forms and paperwork for many issues to record and report with. Instructions are on each form. Health and Safety Forms n If the matter remains unresolved it can then be referred to the University Health and Safety Group (UHSG) DOCUMENT EVERYTHING

Accident, Injury and Incident Reporting n Accidents, Injuries and Incidents should be reported within 24 hours to Health, Safety and Environment on Accident, Injury and Incident report NOTIFIABLE INCIDENTS If a matter is considered to be serious, involves serious injury or involves a death, IMMEDIATE notification to HSE is required. n Supervisors are responsible for the follow up and investigation of all incidents and accidents and are required to forward the accident, incident and incident form to the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) unit. n Supervisor is to keep a copy of the Accident, Injury and Incident report form and forward a copy to the Chair of the WHSC

Inspections of the Workplace n Regular inspections of the workplace are designed to identify hazards for assessment and control to maintain a safe environment n Inspections must be carried out on a regular basis and form part of the overall OH&S management system of the University n Inspections are carried out on a scheduled basis by a team who complete the checklist and identify hazards for correction n Where there is a significant change in activities and/or area use an inspection must be performed n High risk areas should be inspected more frequently n It is the responsibility of staff in the area inspected to take remedial action within timeframes set.

Health and Safety Inspection Check List n Download the relevant checklist from Health and Safety Forms Regular Inspections provide a means for you to measure your OHS performance. n Keep records n Complete the checklist and don’t forget to identify who will be responsible for correcting identified hazards n

Safe Work Procedures (SWP’s) n Where a specific hazard exists it may be appropriate to have safe work procedures clearly described and posted close by so as they can be easily read and understood n International signage is useful where there may be difficulty in communication n DO NOT rely on verbal information for it may not be received by all who need it. n Document all information n Procedures should be reviewed at inspection time Safe Work Procedure template

Hazardous Substance Risk Assessments n Hazardous Substance Risk Assessments must be completed when dealing with Hazardous Substances n They are designed to address the key points associated with the substance such as Usage, Health Effects, Hazard Identification, Control Measures and Disposal Processes n All this information can be obtained from the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the substance.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS’s) n SDS’s can be obtained from manufacturer/supplier or through a chemical database such as Chem. Watch n Electronic information may not be available when needed so hard copies of the information must be kept where they are easily accessed n Every chemical substance in the workplace should have a printed SDS to inform the user of the nature of the product in use. n n n n The SDS provides valuable information on: what the formula is, it’s appearance, odor and use permissible exposure limits (PEL), exposure effects monitoring and measurement procedures health hazard information emergency first aid personal protection leak/spill procedures, waste disposal and storage

Labelling of chemicals Labelling of substances is governed by the National Code of Practice for the Labelling of Workplace Substances [NOHSC: 2012 (1994)] LABELS FOR HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES The label on a hazardous substance should draw the attention of a user who is handling or using the substance to the significant hazards involved. It should take into account all the hazards which are likely to occur during the use of the substance. INFORMATION NEEDED ON LABELS FOR CONTAINERS WITH A CAPACITY OF MORE THAN 500 m. L(g) 1. Product Name 2. Chemical Name 3. Concentration or formulation details 4. Signal words, Dangerous Goods class and subsidiary risk labels 5. UN number 6. Risk Phrase(s) 7. Safety Phrase(s) 8. Directions for use (as appropriate) 9. First Aid procedures 10. Emergency Procedures 11. Expiry date 12. Manufacturer details 13. Reference to SDS

Labelling of chemicals n Small containers may have insufficient space to include all the information needed on the label in a style and size that is legible and clearly distinguishable from other markings on the container. The information needed on labels for small containers is therefore a subset of that for containers of more than 500 m. L(g). INFORMATION NEEDED ON LABELS FOR CONTAINERS WITH A CAPACITY OF LESS THAN 500 m. L(g) 1. Product Name 2. Chemical Name 3. Concentration or formulation details 4. Signal words, Dangerous Goods class and subsidiary risk labels 5. UN number 6. Risk Phrase(s) – at least the most significant 7. Safety Phrase(s) – at least the most significant 8. First Aid procedures 9. Manufacturer details 10. Reference to SDS Where a container of a hazardous substance is so small that this information cannot be provided on the actual container, the container should be labelled with at least: 1. 2. 3. Product Name/Chemical Name Signal words, Dangerous Goods class and subsidiary risk labels Manufacturer details Consideration should be given to other methods of providing additional information, such as on outer packaging. Alternative packaging can be used to provide enough room to allow the full set of information to be supplied.

Hazards A hazard is any source of potential damage, harm or adverse health effects on something or someone under certain conditions at work. n Sometimes a hazard is referred to as being the actual harm or the health effect it caused rather than the hazard. For example, the disease tuberculosis (TB) might be called a hazard by some but in general the TB-causing bacteria would be considered the "hazard" or "hazardous biological agent". What are examples of a hazard? n Workplace hazards can come from a wide range of sources. General examples include any substance, material, process, practice, etc that has the ability to cause harm or adverse health effect to a person under certain conditions. See Table 1 (next slide).

Table 1 Hazards Workplace Hazard Example of Hazard Harm Caused Object Knife Cut Substance Benzene Leukaemia Material Asbestos Mesothelioma Energy Source Electricity Shock, electrocution Conditions Wet floor Slip, fall Process Welding Metal fume fever Practice Quad bike riding Crash As shown in the table, workplace hazards also include practices or conditions that release uncontrolled energy like: an object that could fall from a height (potential or gravitational energy), a run-away chemical reaction (chemical energy) or the release of compressed gas or steam (pressure; high temperature).

Dealing with Hazards There are 3 basic steps to follow when dealing with hazards 1. Identify 2. Assess 3. Control 4. Monitor and Review IDENTIFY n The inspection checklist should have identified any hazards in your work area. If you notice a hazard, report it ! ASSESS n Complete a Hazard Report 1. Rank the risk by probability - the likelihood of the hazard resulting in injury, illness, damage or loss 2. Rank the risk by consequence - the potential for injury, illness, damage or loss 3. Prioritise the risk for control - indicate the ranking of importance when control measures are to be implemented

Dealing with Hazards cont’d CONTROL n Now that the risk has been identified and assessed decisions need to be made about how best to eliminate or reduce the risk as much as possible. n The following hierarchy of controls provides the steps to making the right decisions in this process. It is important to start at #1 and work though to #6 (ie. PPE is not the first control to put in place) 1. Elimination (remove the hazard) 2. Substitution (use an alternative) 3. Isolate (separation from hazard) 4. Redesign (change equipment or process) 5. Administration (change work practices) 6. Personal Protective Equipment (ie gloves, glasses, hearing protection)

Dealing with Hazards cont’d MONITOR and REVIEW n Now that the controls have been identified and implemented it is time to monitor and review for effectiveness Why? ? Continuous improvement § Ensure changes have not introduced new risks or are causing more incidents § Ensure compliance is maintained – e. g. the controls are being utilised correctly §

Field Work n Faculty staff and students (and any other person participating) are required to follow the Faculty Field Work procedure for any field work and travel that involves more risk than 'normal' Movement Requests for Official Travel (where 'normal' travel might involve travel to a metropolitan area for meetings, training courses/conferences, and practicum and professional work placements). Certain site visits may be considered field work. Refer to the documents on the Faculty OHS webpage or contact your Workgroup HSR or WHSC representative for assistance determining whether your trip involves field work. . n It is imperative that all field work is assessed fully as the places we go and teach and research in experience a wide range of conditions of which potential workers should be aware. n Whether you are experienced in the field or just staring out the procdeures are designed to eliminate or reduce the risks to all participants and those who may be affected by our work. n Comprehensive information – checklist, forms, flowcharts, contact lists are all found here Faculty of EHSE Policy and Procedures

Workers Compensation, Rehabilitation and Return to Work n The university has in place workers compensation for employees as required under the NT Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act. n Guidelines on Workers Compensation are available through Health, Safety and Environment unit or through NT Worksafe n Further information can be sought from CDU Health, Safety and Environment unit. n Workers Compensation Information for Employees

Manual Handling n Manual Handling presents a significant risk in most workplaces and there is a Manual Handling Checklist to determine risks associated with activities. n Training is recommended for any person who is required to perform manual handling duties as part of their work and is available internally or externally to the University n Check Health, Safety and Environment training dates n Manual handling information is available as a Regulation and Code of Practice

Screen based equipment and Ergonomic Assessment n The procedure for users of keyboard and screen based equipment is available at: Screen based equipment - Selection and Use n Use the Workstation Checklist to make an assessment of your situation

First Aid and Medical Assistance n The University requires each work area to maintain trained First Aid personnel. Depending on the size of the area, one or more may be required to service the area n First aid personnel are responsible for maintaining the kits to comply with the current Code of Practice and keeping records of all illnesses, injuries and treatments given. n Security personnel are trained in first aid and can be called if you are unable to locate your first aid officer. If no first aid assistance can be provided call for Ambulance assistance. n There is a Medical practice at Casuarina Campus – near the Gym. As a general rule, cases requiring ambulance attendance and further treatment are sent to Royal Darwin Hospital Emergency Department. n Do not delay in seeking first aid and always remember to complete an Accident, Injury and Incident report

Emergencies When the alarms sound: 1. Evacuate building immediately by nearest safe exit or as directed by your floor warden. 2. Proceed directly to the designated Assembly Area 3. Wait until the “all clear” given by Fire Brigade Officer or Building Warden or Security n DO NOT enter buildings if alarms are sounding n DO NOT USE lifts/elevators during an evacuation. n Familiarise yourself with the floorplan of the building you are in and the designated assembly area

Fire and Fire Fighting Equipment Only attempt to extinguish minor fires – do not take personal risks n Fire brigade: The fire brigade is alerted by the faculty's automatic alarm systems. n The Building Warden or the deputy Building Warden must meet the Emergency Services personnel when they arrive at the fire panel of the building. As soon as possible inform the University Security on extension 7777 or 8946 6500 (Casuarina Campus only). n Each laboratory usually has a Fire extinguisher of DRY CHEMICAL Generalpurpose type n Most laboratories also have a fire blanket. Fire blankets are the method of choice for small and contained fires. n Each building also has fire hoses in them. See floor plans for their positions in each building

After hours and Emergency response n Outside normal working hours (1621 - 0800 weekdays, weekends, and public holidays) Building/ Floor Wardens more likely will not be available. If the alarm sound during these periods, Wardens in the building (if any) and the Security Officer will endeavour to ensure that all personnel leave the building. n It is essential that all occupants sign in and out of the buildings, with appropriate entries in the After Hours books. n After hours Books locations: Yellow 2: Foyer adjacent to automatic door Yellow 3: Outside in front of Admin Office window Pink 4 and 5: Preparation areas of both buildings Green 4: Check in with Gym front counter Blue 5: Faculty Front counter These records are used in emergency situations to ensure all persons have safely evacuated the building. IF YOU DON’T SIGN IN – YOU WILL NOT BE LOOKED FOR!!

Emergency Management Plan Charles Darwin University’s Emergency Management plan can be found at: Emergency Management Plan

Summary n Everyone (including the University) has a responsibility to themselves and others to ensure a safe work environment n Accidents and incidents must be reported and investigated with corrective action taken to prevent a reoccurrence n Regular Inspections and Hazard reporting must be carried out to maintain a safe work environment n You have representation and systems in place to help you – use them n You have a right to be consulted with on OHS matters – so don’t be a mushroom

Forms and Useful Links Forms q All forms can be downloaded from: Health and Safety Forms Policy and Procedure q Work Health and Safety Policy q Governance Library q Faculty of EHSE Procedures Other Links n Chem. Watch n CDU Health, Safety and Environment n NT Work. Safe

Acknowledgements n Mr. Neil Ludvigsen - for his initial contribution to the content. n Mr. Horst Walter, Manager of CDU Health, Safety and Environment Unit - for his proof reading and suggestions n Ms. Kezia Lim, Technical Officer (Pharmacy) - for her keen eye and editing skills Developed by: Mr. Michael Howard Laboratory Manager School of Environmental and Life Sciences Faculty of Education, Health and Science 2005 Revised annually

Facility Tour n Emergency exits n Fire equipment n Evacuation Plan and assembly area n First Aid kits n Safety showers n Spill kits n Waste management n Safety resources - “Library”