Learning Topic 4 Contribute to hazard identification, OHS risk assessment and risk control activities
This topic should provide you with the ability to:
Report identified hazards and inadequacies in risk controls
Check the workplace for hazards using itemised checklist(s) and contribute to risk assessments
Provide input to development and implementation of control measures, with reference to the hierarchy of control
Section 4.4 Provide input to development and implementation of control measures, with reference to the hierarchy of control
Hierarchy of control
If the risk cannot be eliminated, it should be minimised in whatever ways are most likely to be practicable and effective. This could involve:
substituting the process or substance with a safer one
designing premises or equipment so that it is safer to use
engineering controls (altering tools, equipment or work systems to make them safer, eg. enclosing or isolating the hazard)
administrative measures (such as training workers in safe procedures, organising suitable maintenance or housekeeping practices, job rotation or changing work organisation)
using personal protective equipment (PPE - such as ear muffs, dust masks, aprons, gloves, etc.)
This list of types of strategies is known as the hierarchy of risk controls (or the hierarchy of hazard controls), because risk control should be accomplished using strategies as close as possible to the top of the list (these are more effective).
To decide on the best method of controlling risks, you will need to ask:
is it possible to remove the risk at the design stage?
can the hazard be eliminated?
if a machine or work practice be substituted to reduce the risk?
if the worker be isolated from the risk or the risk from the worker?
if safer work practices be developed and put in place?
if, as a last resort, personal protective equipment (PPE) can be used? (Note that PPE does not address the hazard.)
Hierarchy of hazard controls
Here is an example of the hierarchy of hazard control. The hazard identified is a caustic substance used for cleaning a client’s shower.
In many cases it will be necessary to use more than one control method. PPE is the least effective and should be the method of last resort, used only as an interim measure or if no other measures are practicable.
This is because PPE often does not give as much protection as other types of controls. For example, a dust mask will not give much protection if it is already clogged up with dust, or if there is not a good facial fit for the wearer and dust can enter the worker’s lungs via the gaps between face and mask. PPE can also be hot, awkward or uncomfortable, and workers may neglect to wear it for some of the time they are exposed to the hazard. Adequate resources need to be made available to ensure risks are effectively controlled. PPE may be cheaper, but effectiveness is a more important consideration, as short-term cost savings are likely to result in higher costs in the longer term.
Risk control flow chart
Here is a copy of a Risk control flow chart.
Risk control flow chart
Risk controls which have been put in place should be monitored to check that the risk is adequately controlled, and that the risk controls do not create new hazards. Workers’ feedback is an important part of checking whether risk controls are achieving their purpose.
Hierarchy of Control Options
Option
Outcome
Workplace Example
Elimination
Removing the risk, so that there is no possibility of an accident or incident, no injury or illness, and no damage to property.
This option is permanent and is the preferred option.
Use pre-mixed chemicals in special use containers
Substitution
Change the work procedures, that is, carry out a task in another way
Use a lifting device instead of manual handling
Isolation
Barriers between people and the hazard
Put partitions between work areas
Place barriers around spills
Place a barrier between radiation work and workers
Engineering
Physical change to a piece of equipment or the work environment
Use a ‘glare screen’ on the computer screen
Put hand or foot brakes on trolleys
Administrative
Administrative decisions, and documentation
Develop policies and safe operating procedures (SOPs)
Install warning signs
Provide staff training and instruction
Implement job rotation
Implement machinery and equipment maintenance logs
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Clothing and equipment to help prevent injuries or illnesses
