News and Publications
Safe Work Australia releases new workplace exposure standards.
Maria Powell, Principal Consultant - July 2014
Along with other duties a PCBU (person conducting a business or undertaking) must ensure that no person at the workplace is exposed to a substance or mixture in an airborne concentration that exceeds the exposure standard.
Safe Work Australia has released updated documents that list workplace exposure standards for airborne contaminants and describe how to meet duties under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and the WHS Regulations.
Do you know what the duties are regarding workers exposure to hazardous chemicals in your workplace? A current list of workplace exposure standards can be found on the Hazardous Substances Information System (HSIS).
Tip: Determining a healthy workplace for everyone requires more than measuring airborne concentrations of hazardous chemicals. Other factors to consider include individual variations and susceptibilities, greater exposure during a longer work shift, and decreased recovery time between shifts. Consultation with workers is vital in managing risks.
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Latest projects
Maria Powell, Principal Consultant - July 2014
ARA is currently working with a large transport company to review their work activities and further develop their to meet the requirements of WHS legislation and their rapidly expanding business operations. The process has involved:
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Initial discussions to determine the clients specific needs and desired outcomes
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Review of related legislative requirements and supporting Codes of Practice
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Site visits including observance of unloading and loading at Port Kembla facilities
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Draft development of safe work method statements (SWMS) and other documentation for review and consultation with workers
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Finalisation and implementation
Tip: In developing Safe Work Method Statements it is essential - and a duty under WHS legislation - to consult with workers. Not only does this improve the quality of the information used, it also allows workers to contribute to managing the risks associated with the work process and take ownership of the safety of themselves and others.
Read more at: Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice and draft code Traffic Management in the Workplace.
Require assistance? Contact us.