Safety Matters with Dr Paul
Health and Safety Documents
The Queensland Work Health and Safety Act 2011 places an obligation on a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) to provide and maintain a safe and healthy workplace as far as is reasonably practicable. Implementing a documented system and the maintenance of records and information are important evidence for demonstrating having done what is reasonably practicable.
I often hear a PCBU say they are committed to safety and believe they are doing the right thing but many are concerned about proving it, asking what documents they need. The type and extent of the documentation required will depend on the nature of the business and the hazards and risks present at the workplace.
Whatever documents are implemented should be simple to understand and use; meet the health and safety needs of the business; and be periodically reviewed and improved when appropriate. Below are some documents and records in 6 key areas I look for at all workplaces I review:
A Health and Safety Policy
Provides a commitment to providing and maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and an understanding of the legal obligation to do so.
Hazard Identification Tools
Documents for managing health and safety hazards and risks will vary between businesses. A workplace inspection checklist and a hazard reporting form are relevant for all workplaces. A risk assessment form and Safe Work Method Statements may be appropriate, and even a legal requirement, at some businesses.
Consultation
An issue resolution procedure is a legal requirement with the one in the Queensland Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 being the default one in the absence of one developed at the workplace. Other consultation records could be safety committee agenda and minutes; health and safety as an agenda item at staff meetings; or records of toolbox talks conducted.
Emergency Planning
Queensland’s Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (section 43) requires the PSBU to document and implement an emergency plan. Relevant documents and records could be a list of emergency wardens (fire wardens and first aid); an evacuation plan and procedures; first aider competency records; and evacuation rehearsal records and improvements made.
Incidents and Injuries
Maintaining a Register of Injuries is a legal requirement. Other documents and records could include a first aid register; reporting incidents and injuries; and conducting an incident investigation.
Information, Training and Instructions
The act requires the PSBU to provide information, training, instruction that is necessary to protect persons from risk to their health and safety. Any induction program conducted should include relevant health and safety information and instructions and participation records should be maintained. Other documents and records could include safe work instructions; competency records; and information on relevant hazards and precautions to take.
This article provides general information only and should not be a substitute for seeking professional advice regarding your specific situation.
Dr Paul will be contributing regular articles to assist and advise PCBUs and their workers on the management of health and safety.
