Safety Matters with Dr Paul
Benefits of a Documented System
The Queensland Work Health and Safety Act 2011, and Regulations made under the Act, places an obligation and specific duties on a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) to ensure the health and safety, so far as is reasonably practicable, of people affected by their business or undertaking.
Demonstrating having done what is reasonably practicable means that the PCBU has to show, through reasoned and supported argument, that there are no other practical measures that could reasonably have be taken. Implementing a documented system and the maintenance of records and information are important records of compliance.
Other benefits of a documented system include:
• better understanding of health and safety roles and responsibilities
• a proactive approach to managing health and safety
• assisting with improved health and safety performance
• systematic and consistent approach to performing tasks in a safe manner
Clearly written documents are required to make workers aware of their safety duties and responsibilities such as the safe use of plant and equipment; reporting of hazards; and consultation arrangements in place at the workplace. It is important to have documented systems in place to identify hazards and assess and control risks. These could include workplace inspection checklists; a risk assessment form; and safe work method statements for high risk work.
Records should be maintained for activities such as hazard identification, risk assessment and controls implemented; maintenance of plant and equipment; and training and instruction of workers in performing their work safely. The Act requires a PCBU to have appropriate consultation arrangements in place and it is a good idea to keep a documented record of the agreed actions for controlling hazards and risks.
This article provides general information only and should not be a substitute for seeking professional advice regarding your specific situation. The references included provide additional supporting information.
Dr Paul will be contributing regular articles to assist and advise PCBUs and their workers on the management of health and safety.
