Contractor Safety Management

Guest article by BEAKON

With the new legislation looming organisations are now scratching their heads trying to work out how they will manage multiple contractors who visit their sites! No longer can you pass the responsibility onto the contractor.

Contractor safety Management – OHS Regulation 2001, subcontractors must not commence work unless they:

•           have a copy of the relevant OHS management plan

•           have undertaken up to date risk assessments

•           have been inducted including their employees

•           keep updated SWMS project specific

Contractors also must be insured for workers compensations and public liability.

Beakon contractor safety  management software is setting the benchmark to manage these processes. If your managing 10 of 5000 contractors the amount of time wasted trying to track down this information down all adds up and cost organisations in time and money. Software is the best way to manage this process. See the following video on how organisations large and small are using beakon to manage their contractors safely.

http://beakon.com.au/beakon/contractor-management

This post on our sister site PUBLIC LIABILITY is currently getting a lot of hits. As one person commented (via LinkedIn): “This is a brilliant case for why any “incident reporting / management system” needs to accomodate more than just Workers Compensation. This single episode has implications for not only WorkCover but also property insurance (stock and building losses) and even Liability (injury to third party property or persons, business interruption to third party businesses). Many insurance class triggers from a single event”.

SEE THE ARTICLE AND VIDEO HERE

We’ve just added these checklists to our sister site PUBLIC LIABILITY

Amusement Rides Evaluation Checklist (0)

Club and Hotel Liability and Hazard Evaluation Checklist (0)

Commercial Premises Hazard Evaluation Checklist (0)

Public Liability & Hazard Evaluation Checklist - Motels & Boarding Houses (0)

Public Liability and Hazard Evaluation Checklist for Fitness Centres (0)

Public Liability Hazard Checklist for Retail Premises (0)

Safety And Public Liability Checklist Go Karts (0)

Retail Stores Hazard Identification Checklist (0)

Proclaim have released their last newsletter for the year with 3 very informative articles:

1 – Richard Thomas discusses the advantages and disadvantages of using contract Security in pubs and Clubs:

Insurers of licensed venues such as clubs, pubs, bars and nightclubs often include in their liability surveys and questionnaires a question about whether security is outsourced or internal.  It seems to be a generally accepted assumption among insurers of hospitality risks that those venues which out-source their security function present a lower risk of claims and certainly of assault-type claims.

A counter-argument often raised by venue managers is that by using directly-employed crowd controllers, they have greater control over the actions of these personnel – in particular when decisions are made on issues like evictions and on the means of restraints and holds.  They might also argue that they are better off retaining their own security so they can be assured through internal processes that crowd controllers are well-trained and follow good procedures rather than engaging a contractor of unknown or dubious reputation or quality. Read More………….

2 – Russell Walker discusses How important is it to investigate a claim?

“Don’t always believe what you are told by the claimant” Read More………….

3 - Eugenia Anang discusses the importance of Risk Management in defending liability claims

“Proclaim manages claims on behalf of a number of clients who are owner/managers of shopping centres and supermarkets.

It’s widely understood that when a public liability claim arising out of an incident at a centre or supermarket is commenced, the parties in the firing line are almost always the centre managers and owners.

At Proclaim, we understand that regardless of how streamlined a client’s risk management procedures are, it’s impossible to prevent all incidents leading to injury to patrons from occurring.

As a result, Proclaim has adopted an approach whereby we encourage clients to ensure that their risk management procedures are not only streamlined but documented as well. This approach at the very least allows the client to ascertain its liability position at an early stage”. Read More………….

Riskex have been assisting many of Proclaim’s clients to develop and audit their risk management systems and have seen the definite advantages to be gained form such an approach.

Slips, trips and falls are a regular source of workplace injuries

Are we creating an environment for possible slips, trips or falls without even knowing it?

Have you ever:

• Run down a flight of stairs?
• Slips on snow or ice?
• Walked in the workplace while reading something, talking on a mobile phone?
• Worked in areas with water, ice on the floor?

Everyone can probably answer “yes” to at least one of the above.

Practical tips to prevent a slip, trip or fall

Weather:

• During and after inclement weather
• Be aware that mud and water are often tracked into the workplace.
• Proceed cautiously in these areas when entering or leaving the premises

Footwear:

• Wearing appropriate footwear, avoiding: high heels, smooth leather or vinyl soles, and open back or open toe shoes.

Stairs:

• Falling  down a flight of stairs can result in a serious injury.
• Use the handrails, avoid haste, and make sure there are no debris where you will step.
• Avoid using stairs while carrying something in both hands

Uneven Surfaces:

• Look out for curbs, potholes, small stones and  debris or obstacles when walking.
• Dawn, dusk and hours of darkness or poor lighting make uneven surfaces especially hazardous

Ladders:

• Use only properly rated ladders or other step devices.
• Do not use:
  • chairs, boxes, wastebaskets, or other makeshift devices as a substitute for a proper step ladder or step platform –

This is one of those known hazards where a person can “get away” with it for a long time but the odds will catch up eventually.

Moving Materials:

• Do not attempt to lift, move, or carry materials beyond physical ability.
• Walking, climbing, or turning while carrying something is much more stressful  to the body than simply lifting the same object.
• Avoid using stairs while carrying something in both hands
• Use a mechanical means, or ask for assistance

Housekeeping:

• Work areas should be orderly and walkways clear of material.
• Clean up spills and debris in the immediate work area.
• Report spills or other slip and trip  hazards

Being more observant and thinking ahead, you will avoid, most slips, trips and fall situations.

Do you rely on masking tape or mistakenly use Cable Protectors as trip prevention devices in pedestrian environments? Cable Protectors are a load bearing device designed to protect cords and cables and have no minimum height or contrast requirements. They are not designed as or intended to be used as a trip prevention device. The threshold for the maximum abrupt change in surface for pedestrian environments is 6mm (with the exception of properly constructed stairs and TGSI’s) and while there are a vast array of products being sold as Trip Prevention Devices, almost all of them fail this basic test. Until now there has been no one product that satisfied the 6mm threshold and was suitable for all floor surfaces. The Low Profile cable management system is the newest, most versatile cable cover available. 100% Australian made and owned. For more information go to www.lowprofile.com.au

hard floor cable covers

carpet cable covers

AS A SPECIAL OFFER FOR OUR READERS, LOW PROFILE WILL EMBROIDER YOUR COMPANY LOGO OR NAME ON YOUR CABLE COVERS – FREE

I’ve seen some of the recent work that Remedial Slip Resistance Solutions (RSR) have done and it is extremely impressive. These guys have over 30 years experience with floors including cleaning and slip resistance testing. I regularly use their other company (Slip Smart) for slip testing and advice on unsafe surfaces. For almost any problem floor they can clean, restore, seal and treat the surface to ensure its is safe in the conditions it is exposed to an compliant with relevant standards. Download their brochure and have a look at some of the fantastic work they have done. RSR Brochure (239)

Hand Railing

One of the most common searches on this site is in regards to the legal heights of balcony railings and balustrades. The main query we receive is whether existing railing needs to be modified to meet the current building code if it was built prior to the current code and met relevant requirements in place at the time of construction.

That is both a simple and difficult question to answer. The simple answer is NO, as there is currently no retrospective requirement unless significant modifications are made. Many Insurance Companies, Councils and other Authorities will confirm this. Many Lawyers will agree and there does not appear to have been any successful court cases to suggest this isn’t so.

BUT we believe that the day will come when there is a successful claim made against the owner of an historically compliant balustrade, and to be a real fun policeman, even against the owner of a currently compliant balustrade . The difficult answer is therefore “MAYBE”. Our opinion is that Building Codes and Standards are a MINIMUM requirement and there is an overriding legal obligation to to fully assess the risk and go above and beyond minimum standards if required. For example, if furniture and other items are situated near the railing and children frequent the area then a 1m high balustrade is not adequate. Have a look at the balustrade near shopping centre foodcourts that overlook an atrium. These were raised some years ago after children fell by climbing on chairs and tables.  An older height balustrade near an area where large crowds congregate (and/or drink alcohol) should be subject to some serious risk assessment. See our information sheet from our Public Liability Website

The main point is to: PROPERLY ASSESS THE RISK AND IMPLEMENT APPROPRIATE CONTROLS. Replacing or modifying older balustrades may not be immediately possible or financially viable so alternative or interim controls may be better than nothing ie move items or high risk activities away from the balustrade or put warning signs on access doors to hotel balconies etc.

What are the current BCA  requirements for balustrades?

The current BCA requirements are that a balcony balustrade have the following attributes: –

• The top of the railing must be least 1 metre (1000mm) from the ground.
• Any opening must not allow a 125mm sphere (ie childs head) to pass through. So the vertical components must not be more than 125mm apart.
• The gap between the balcony surface to the bottom rail must be no more than 100mm.
• For balconies with a fall height of more than 4m there must not be any horizontal or near horizontal elements between 150mm and 760mm above the floor that facilitate climbing.

We found an article by Solutionsie in their Body Corporate Managers Newsletter which provides more information on this subject including some recent incidents and court cases. See the full article Balustrade Height (2564)

Solutionsie even offer a balustrade testing service.

The majority of the high risks we identify during audits of shopping centres and malls are in and around loading docks. In a lot of retail centres these are also the areas which get the least attention as they are unlikely to be seen by the majority of customers. There is a lot hazardous activity taking place in these areas including delivery vehicles, stock movements, maintenance contractors, waste dumping and removal etc.

The biggest problem is when customers and staff use these areas to take a short cut into the Centre from the car park or a nearby housing estate. We usually find that this has been going on for sometime and that Centre Management are well aware of it but choose to turn a blind eye or condone this activity as it is too hard to control or manage.

Following the death of a customer who was hit by a reversing trolley tractor in a shopping centre loading dock, Worksafe Victoria issued a Safety Alert to warn about these potential hazards. Download Full Alert: Load Dock Safety Alert (415)

In regards to loading dock safety, Worksafe made the following recommendations:

Traffic management in loading/unloading dock:

• Prevent general public access to these areas, and prominently display signs prohibiting unauthorised access
• Enforce separation of vehicles from authorised employee and contractor pedestrian traffic by installing clearly marked walkways, bollards, barriers and marked vehicle parking bays
• Provide safe access and egress for authorised pedestrians to loading dock (interlocked or card access on entry/exit points)
• Monitor the loading dock (eg closed circuit television)
• Enforce clearly signed speed limits
• Install mirrors to provide drivers and pedestrians with better visibility
• Establish a schedule for vehicles to use the loading dock; or control or limit vehicle access to dock.

Design of loading/unloading docks:

• Review design and use of older docks regularly, especially in relation to potential pedestrian and traffic interaction
• Design or retro-fit where practical to better manage vehicle entry/exit and circulation of vehicles
• New designs of loading docks should avoid, where possible, the need for vehicles to reverse where there is potential for interaction with pedestrians or other vehicles. Designs need to ensure that all users have  good sight of other users. Mirrors and other aids in the dock should only be considered as a last resort.

We urge all Shopping Centre Owners and Mangers to undertake a comprehensive risk assessment of their loading docks, implement and monitor effective controls.

Of course there are many other hazards such as vehicles impacting the building, lighting, waste management, trip hazards, falls from height and slips and falls. Contact us if you need assistance and you can find more info at the Public Liability Website

Fireworks can be displayed in NSW for:

• an organised public display for a community or public organisation or event
• theatrical and / or indoor display
• technical non-display purposes such as an industrial or agricultural purpose eg a chimney testing or bird disturbing device.

The possession, use, storage and transport of display fireworks is restricted to individuals holding a:

• pyrotechnicians licence or
• fireworks (single use) licence.

A pyrotechnician’s licence or fireworks (single use) licence does not authorise the holder to sell fireworks. Separate licences are required to manufacture, import, supply, sell or store fireworks. Pyrotechnicians are also required to hold a valid unsupervised handling licence to handle fireworks without supervision. Single use fireworks licences will only be issued for a legitimate reason such as an organised public display that is open to the public.

The Guide to applying for fireworks (single use) Licence and the Guide to applying for a pyrotechnician’s licence provide more information.

In Victoria only licensed pyrotechnicians, persons under their direct supervision, or persons with a valid single occasion licence are allowed to discharge fireworks in Victoria.

• Service Provider Directory – view the current list of licensed pyrotechnicians

Applying to become a Licensed Pyrotechnician

WorkCover issues pyrotechnician’s licences to people who demonstrate adequate experience in the safe discharge of fireworks. Licensed pyrotechnicians may only discharge the types of fireworks printed on their licence and are required to notify WorkSafe Victoria whenever they intend to discharge Fireworks.

To obtain a licence to become a Pyrotechnician and discharge fireworks in Victoria the applicant must be able to show that they have practical experience in the discharge of fireworks, have completed an approved course (search training providers) or hold an interstate licence to discharge fireworks.

In QLD The use of fireworks is regulated under the Explosives Act 1999 and Explosives Regulation 2003. Only people who hold a Queensland fireworks operator’s licence can use fireworks.

The use of fireworks by the general public is illegal.

Find out more about safe use of fireworks, including Illegal Fireworks, Fireworks Licences, Safety Documents and more  . . .

Read the fireworks code of practice.

Getting a fireworks licence

Nationally agreed fireworks competencies are available for the training of fireworks operators and contractors.  The Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE is approved by the Department of Education and Training to deliver these competencies.

Find out more about fireworks licences.

Fireworks Safety Checklist produced by QLD Dept Education – Download Here

A few years ago we used to drive to Canberra to buy fireworks but new regulations mean fireworks can no longer be imported, sold or used in the ACT.

Anyone found with fireworks may face fines of up to $3,000.

The Dangerous Substances Act 2004 (ACT Legislation Register) restricts the sale, use and availability of fireworks in the ACT.

The Northern Territory is the only place in Australia where the public can legally buy fireworks. In NT, The public can purchase and use fireworks only on Territory Day – read Fireworks Safety Brochure

Safety Policy Example and hints – From Rapid Action Fireworks

At Rapid Action Fireworks safety is our number 1 priority. We are committed to providing a display that is completely safe for our staff as well as your special guests. To back this commitment up, we rigorously test all products prior to using them within a display. In this way we are assured that any malfunctioning or dangerous products do not end up being use as part of your display.

Rapid Action Fireworks have a safety record second to none and are currently insured with Lloyds of London to the value of $20,000,000.00 for Public Liability.

Our expert pyrotechnicians are fully trained to meet the latest industry standards and indeed the Australian Standards. Rapid Action Fireworks are foundation members of the Australian Pyrotechnics Association and comply with all of the Codes of Conduct and the Constitution as set down by the association.the following topics:

A Risk Assessment form is completed for each display as part of our Safety Procedures. This form is part of our overall safety plan which includes:

• Site Inspections

• Risk Assessment

• Display Design

• Notifications

• Packing at the Magazine

• Transport

• Day of Event Checks

• Set-up

• Hand-fired Displays Electronic Firing

• Testing

• Post Display

• Check Site

• Mis-fires

• Clean-up

• Week following Display

Rapid Action Fireworks follows a very strict and comprehensive Safety and Procedure Manual for displays. The following is a short exert from the Manual:

“All sites to be used as part of a display shall be inspected before proceeding with any part of the display process. This is important, as the size of the display area will directly affect if a display can indeed take place and relate to the calibre of pyrotechnic products used for the display. Upon checking a site the pyrotechnician will assess the following areas:

1. Wind Direction and Strength.
This may be different from the night of firing but checking the prevailing breeze will give you an understanding of what to expect. Asking the events organizer if they are familiar with the wind direction and strength may also be of benefit. This knowledge is also valuable in relation to knowing where the spectators are likely to be seated.

2. Distances.
This is your opportunity to check how much area is available for the firing site. This will directly affect the calibre of product to be used, (refer Safety Bulletin 17 A; DSN 2). When checking the distances it is important to ask the event organizer of any other stalls/displays that may need room to set up in and where they are to be located. If possible mark your boundaries with spray paint to ensure the area required.

3. Obstructions.
Look around and observe any objects that may be hazardous to firing. This can include large trees close to the set-up area, structures that are indirectly in the firing path of the pyrotechnic devices i.e. if firing from the top of a building check for aerials, satellite dishes, awnings etc. Note also any buildings that may need to be incorporated into the display area, for example a garden shed. Check what is stored within the building and ensure that it is uninhabited while firing.

4. Surrounding Area.
Check what type of environment is surrounding the firing site, i.e. housing, industrial, bushland. This is important to consider with regard to noise, safety – of residents and property, likely risk of incident, i.e. dry bushland. Note if in an industrial area if there are any Hazchem stores within the vicinity (refer AS 2187.4; Safety Bulletin 17 A; DSN 2). This will also affect the type of pyrotechnic devices to be used.

5. Spectator Points.
Ensure that the event organizer has enough room for the expected crowd. Show the event organizer where the barricade is likely to be so they can plan for more space if required.

6. Emergency Vehicle Access.
In the event of a serious incident, the police, ambulance and fire authority may need access to your site. It is important to locate access points and familiarize yourself and the event organizer of these. While it is not your responsibility to plan and organize for this, it is important that you make the organizer aware of this requirement.

Risk assessing is vital to a safe and enjoyable experience for the public viewing your display. ”

In the front centre of this image you can see four of the electrical safety isolation boards used to prevent premature firing of the fireworks. The circuits are completed and made live just prior to the firing. This is just one of the many techniques used to make sure our staff and your spectators are as safe as possible.

From PYRO.COM.AU:

So you managed to get your hands on some illegal fireworks, what do you do now?

Surrender them to a licenced pyrotechnician – no questions asked, or risk being fined and getting a criminal record. It’s that simple.

But if we can’t convince you to do that, you had better read this guide to minimise injury to yourself and those around you. Click Here

Free Asset Liability Risk Management Manual For Shopping Centres.

Now available for download. 91 pages in Word version that can and should be modified to suit your own circumstances. Download Here

TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWARD 1
SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION
SECTION 2 POLICY
SECTION 3 OVERVIEW OF STATUTORY OBLIGATIONS
SECTION 4 OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC SAFETY
SECTION 5 CENTRE MANAGER’S ASSET LIABILITY CHECKLIST
SECTION 6 RESPONSIBILITIES
SECTION 7 ACCOUNTABILITY
SECTION 8 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND CONTROL
SECTION 9 EMERGENCY PLANNING
SECTION 10 STAFF TRAINING
SECTION 11 DEALING WITH CONTRACTORS
SECTION 12 DEALING WITH TENANTS
SECTION 13 DEALING WITH TRAUMA
SECTION 14 INJURY CARE
SECTION 15 INCIDENT REPORTING
SECTION 16 ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
SECTION 17 CLAIMS ANALYSIS & CONTROL

APPENDICES

1. CASE STUDY
2. OHS&E CORRECTION ACTION REQUEST
3. ESSENTIAL SERVICE/SECURITYSHUT-DOW
4. DISPLAY SAFETY CHECKLIST
5. SITE INSPECTION CHECKLIST & ACTION LIST
6. PUBLIC LIABILITY INCIDENT REPORT FORM
7. STAFF TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
8. ACCIDENT/INVESTIGATION REPORT
9. RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN
10. SLIP/TRIP INFORMATION
11. SITE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
12. ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION – SUPPORT MATERIAL
13. SERVICE COMPLIANCE LETTER
14. COPING WITH DISASTER & TRAUMA – SUPPORT MATERIAL

Courtesy of the Public Liability Website

Essential Safety Measures Maintenance Manual (fourth edition)

The Victorian Building Commission has just released the fourth edition of the Essential Safety Measures Maintenance Manual. This is an excellent resource for owners and managers of office buildings, apartment buildings or body corporate. The manual refers specifically to Victorian Regulations, which are similar with regulations in other states – but you should refer to your local regs.

The 4th edition is set out in four easy-to-use sections:

* Part O – Alternative Solutions
* Part 1 – Building built after 1 May 2004
* Part 2 – Building built between 1 July 1994 and 1 May 2004
* Part 3 – Buildings built prior to 1 July 1994

The 4th edition has a new section which summarises the performance-based system to clarify the impact the use of alternative solutions has on maintenance.

The purpose of the manual is to set out in detail the requirements and the parameters building owners and managers must work within, to meet their regulatory obligations.
Maintaining essential safety measures in commercial buildings

When the construction of a commercial building is complete, the building owner is responsible for its upkeep and maintenance, particularly its safety features. So if that relates to you, it is worth reading this section.

The maintenance of essential safety measures will ensure that the safety measures mainly dealing with fire situations within the building, remain at the required operational level throughout the life of the building. The type of maintenance depends on the complexity of the service, equipment or feature and the experience of the person carrying out the inspection or test.

As an example, essential safety measures defined under the Building Regulations include:

• Air conditioning systems Fire hydrants
• Emergency lifts and lighting Fire windows
• Ext doors and exit signs Mechanical ventilation
• Emergency power supply Fire isolated stairs, passages ramps
• Fire control centres Fire rated materials
• Fire curtains and doors Path of travel to exits
• Emergency warning systems Smoke alarms
• Fire detectors and alarm systems Smoke control systems
• Fire extinguishers Sprinkler systems

Please refer to the Regulations for a full listing of essential services.

If your building was built or altered since 1 July 1994, the Regulations require you to keep a current copy of your buildings occupancy permit together with an annual essential safety measures report in the building. All essential safety measures reports, records of maintenance checks, services and repair work to the building must also be kept on the premises so it is easily accessible for a municipal building surveyor or Chief Officer of the relevant fire brigade to randomly check for compliance. These documents are important as collectively they ensure that owners are fulfilling these obligations.

Although councils have a responsibility under building legislation for the enforcement of building safety in their area, owners have an obligation to ensure that essential safety measures and other safety measures are maintained and operate satisfactorily.

Each year owners are required to prepare an annual essential services report on the building’s essential safety measures. An owner may choose to engage specialist maintenance contractors to assist in the preparation of this report or if written delegation is provided, an agent may complete the report.

If the building was built before 1 July 1994, owners are also responsible for ensuring that any safety equipment, safety fittings or safety measures are maintained and fulfilling their purpose. Owners are also required to prepare and display an annual essential safety measures report. This includes exits and paths of travel to exits. It is also advised that records of maintenance checks, service and repair work be kept so they can be made available for inspection by a municipal building surveyor or chief officer. And remember, if building work is carried out, these circumstances may change, so it is worth checking with a municipal building surveyor or private building surveyor to see what is needed to do to comply with the Regulations or contact the Building Commission.

Want more information?

To find out more about maintenance of essential services, click on the following link

Essential Safety Measures Maintenance Manual (fourth edition) (1.84MB)

Updated PN 2007-23 Maintaining Essential Safety Measures in your Building (194KB)

Essential Safety measures maintenance update (1.53MB)

Part 12 – Maintenance of Buildings and Places of Public Entertainment (39KB)

Approved Form – Annual essential safety measures report (38KB)

There have been a few recent tragedies involving the collapse of balconies. here is a great article from the Building Commission on reducing this risk through proper balcony maintenance.
Balcony maintenance

Inspection statistics have revealed numerous rotting balconies that could cause severe injury or death in the event of a collapse. The risk is greatest when they are heavily loaded at public functions, parties or similar occasions where people may congregate outside.

There are many things building owners should be aware of that can affect the structural adequacy of a balcony over time. These may include:

* Termites
* Wet rot
* Seaside and corrosive effects
* Loadings

As a safety measure, all home owners and commercial property owners with balconies should ensure that:

* It is constructed following the issue of a building permit
* It is inspected on a regular basis for any warning signs of potential collapse
* A maintenance program is introduced to extend its design life, and
* Where there is a doubt or a problem, an inspection by a Structural Engineer or other suitably qualified building practitioner, and remedial measures, as necessary, are arranged.

What you need to know about Maintenance of Balconies (564KB)

We have always argued that just because your building complies with the Build Code or Standards doesn’t always mean that you have met all of your duty of care obligations. The courts will treat each case on its merits and find you negligent if it decides that you should have been aware of a risk and gone above and beyond minimum standards in order to control that risk. This article by Carter Newell covers a recent example of a case against the Dept of Housing where a tenant fell down the back stairs of one of their houses.

The Body Corporate is liable for any person who sustains bodily injury while voluntarily working on the
behalf of the Body Corporate. Some of these incidents are preventable.

Risk exposures that could lead to a claim include:
· Slips, trips, and falls
· Cuts
· Burns
· Electrocution
· Dismemberment
· Lifting injuries
· Toxic fume inhalation
· Animal attacks and
· Violent evicted tenants.

Controls:
·Do you conduct Risk Assessments prior to any work or activities?

- If workers are involved in landscaping operations they should be provided with
heavy-duty rubber or leather gloves to use when handling chemicals? Do they wear
goggles to protect their eyes from chemical splashes?
· Are ladders and other equipment in good condition? Are workers trained in the proper
use of these?
· Are workers involved in or around construction sites issued the proper personal
protective equipment, such as hardhats,  gloves, and steel-toed work boots?
· Is breathing protection (e.g., face masks, respirators) provided to any employees
exposed to noxious fumes or airborne particulate?
· Are all areas where painting is to be done indoors well ventilated?
· If buildings contain airborne asbestos or lead paint appropriate contractors should be
utilized to perform abatement services?
· Are all employees instructed in the proper lifting techniques and provided with the
appropriate materials-handling equipment?
· If pets are allowed on the premises, prior to arriving on the premises, do workers call
tenants to alert them to their visit and request that dogs be restrained or kept indoors?
· Do you send flyers in monthly billing statements that remind tenants about the
hazards of dog bites and the importance of keeping their dogs restrained during visits from
technicians?
· Workers should be prohibited from operating any vehicles eg forklift that require them to
be appropriately licensed.
· Has any staff member been trained in basic first aid.
· Are emergency phone numbers posted for local hospitals, doctors, ambulance, fire
brigades and police?

Checkout this really useful tool from VMIA – Download Event Risk Document

For more event risk management and public liability information and checklists visit Public Liability Website

Guide to Managing Risk at Public Events – Download Here: Public Event Risks (876)

Event Risk Management Checklist – Equestrian Federation of Australia

Link to Macquarie University’s Events Manual. Covers marketing, public liability, planning, security and safety

Looking for event insurance quotes online – Click Here

Link to Australian Centre for Event Management

EVENT MANAGEMENT and SAFETY CONSULTANTS

As organisers always retain a duty of care to people working or visiting an event, safety must be of paramount importance. Any accident, even those resulting from a lack of training, could result in litigation.

From small events to major concerts, Beaspoke Safety will remove your stress by ensuring your on-site and workplace safety requirements have been met.

Their experience in producing and managing events allows them to approach each situation with an understanding and sensitivity to your requirements and the needs of the event. They develop solutions and assist you to continually comply with current legislation and industry best practice.

Huge collection of hilarious ways that some people fix things using shear genius an ingenuity mixed with a little stupidity. Always be careful when controlling a hazard that you don t great a worse one in the process. Great for safety meetings and presentations as examples of safety hazards and what not to do but don’t try these at home. A few examples below but you can find heaps more here: There I Fixed It

Is the playground generally clean and well maintained?
Can the playground be safely reached by pedestrians or those on bicycles?
Are automobile parking areas physically separated from the playground?
Is perimeter fencing provided?
Are fencing and gate in good condition?
Are informational signs concerning the use of the playground and the equipment provided?
Are signs presented in both written and graphic formats?
Is the playground surface provided with proper drainage to prevent water from forming puddles?
Are restrooms clean and well maintained?
Are the playground areas free from utility boxes, drainage ditches, sewer covers, and other items that could cause
a trip injury

Are trees free from cracked or loose limbs?
Are pesticides/herbicides used on shrubs and trees?
Are there any indications of damage caused by vandalism?
Are areas where playground equipment is used separated from areas where running games are played?
Is playground equipment suitably separated to prevent collisions?
Are walkways located away from the equipment in active use.
Are walkways free from loose surface materials, irregularities, and slippery substances that could cause slips?

At least one primary entrance provided for persons in wheelchairs?
Are sharp inclines and abrupt changes in levels avoided at entrances?

Are walkways clearly defined?
Are pathways at least 48 inches (1.22 m) wide?
Are the slopes of the walkways less than 5%?
Are pedestrian ramps limited to slopes less than 8% and equipped with handrails?

Is the playground actively supervised?
Is the supervisor trained to perform the required duties?
Are records kept of playground and equipment repairs.

Is the area under and around playground equipment equipped with shock absorbent material?
Is all equipment when in use visibly stable?
Are metal equipment and hardware free of major corrosion?
Are wooden structural components free of rot, major cracks, and splinters?
Is equipment free of protrusions and projections that may entangle children’s clothing?
Is equipment free of pinch, crush, and shearing points that could injure children?
Is equipment fabricated to eliminate areas that may entrap children’s heads?
Do adjacent structural elements form a vertex angle greater than 55 degrees?
Are the bases of equipment free of tripping hazards?
Are the areas above and around equipment free of suspended hazards?
Are the ladders, stairways, and ramps built in accordance with standard requirements

SLIDES

Are slides equipped with platforms to facilitate access to the sitting position?
Are the platforms equipped with guardrails or equivalent protective equipment?
Is the average incline of the slides less than 30 degrees?
Are the exit regions of the slides level?
SWINGS
Are swing hardware and supporting chains in satisfactory condition?
Are swings located away from other playground equipment and protected by barriers?
Are the edges of seats smooth and free from obstructions?
Are multiple-axis swings mounted on frames that do not contain single axis swings?
CLIMBING EQUIPMENT
Is the interior of the climbing equipment free of structural components upon which a child could fall?
Are the tops of the equipment provided with an auxiliary means for reaching the ground?
MERRY-GO-ROUNDS
Are the rotating platforms essentially circular?
Does the equipment contain handholds or equivalent devices?
Are the rotating platforms free of sharp edges?
SEESAWS
Are the seesaws free of cracks, corrosion, and other obvious structural defects?

Is the equipment provided with spring centering devices or cushioning material to prevent abrupt contact with the ground?

Are the fulcrums of seesaws free of pinch or crush hazards?
Are handholds provided at each seating position?
SECURITY
Does the management of the playground have a security program?
Is there access to a phone or radio to allow for communication in the event of an emergency?

I took my two sons go-karting on the weekend at public track. The karts were well maintained, there was plenty of warning signage around, our safety brief was very brief but covered the basics. My main concern was that other riders were allowed to wear thongs despite the signs saying closed shoes required.I told my sons to wear leather shoes before we left thinking that would be a minimum requirement.

In April 2010, Workcover issued a safety alert in regards to public go-karting tracks. (see Full Alert) The karts we rode were well guarded but I am sure there are plenty around that aren’t.

This alert has been issued following an incident where initial indications are that the rider’s loose clothing became entangled in the unguarded rear axle of a go-kart, causing fatal injuries. The incident is being investigated, but it would appear that the axle was unguarded.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Occupational health and safety legislation requires employers, and those in control of plant, to provide plant and systems of work that are safe and without risks to health and safety of workers and others in the workplace.
The legislation also requires powered amusement devices, including go-kart tracks, to be registered with WorkCover, and for those amusement devices to be safe for patrons to use. NSW Sport and Recreation also requires the licensing of go-kart tracks for racing and competition.
RISK CONTROLS
To avoid similar incidents, owners and operators of go-kart amusement facilities should:
• provide guarding to prevent contact by the operator or patron, or by their hair or clothing, with moving parts, eg drive chains and axles
• inspect and maintain the go-karts in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• provide instruction to patrons to secure loose hair and clothing. They may also provide equipment such as overalls or balaclavas to help patrons secure long hair or loose clothing
• implement procedures to prevent persons who have not secured long hair or clothing from using the go-karts
• ensure the go-kart, the track and operating procedures comply with the relevant part of AS 3533 Amusement rides and devices.

WorkCover encourages all go-kart track operators to take action now to ensure that their go-kart facilities are registered and/or licensed and risk controls are in place.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information about design and use of amusement devices, including go-karts, or motor vehicle racing see:
• AS 3533.1-2009 Amusement devices Part 1: Design and constructions
• AS 3533.1-2009 Amusement devices Part 2: Operation and maintenance
• Motor Vehicle Sports (Public Safety) Act 1985
For more information visit www.workcover.nsw.gov.au or call WorkCover on 13 10 50.

See the full hazard alert

Some of the most common questions we are asked are about BCA requirements for steps, stairs and handrails on staircases. Below is a summary only and only most common criteria have been included for information only.

Under Section D2.13 A stairway must have:

1. no more than 18 or no less than 2 risers in each flight
2. Risers on Public Stairs must be more than 115mm and less than 190mm, step tread must be at least 250mm (private stairs 240) and no more than 355mm. The sun of twice the riser plus the going must be between 550mm and 700mm
3. Risers and goings dimensions must be constant in each flight
4. Risers must not have openings that would fit a 125mm sphere (ie size of a child’s head)
5. Treads must have a non slip finish or an adequate non skid tread near the edge of the nosing
6. treads must be of solid construction not mesh or if the stairway is more than 10m or 3 storeys high

Under Section D2.17 Handrails must be:

1. Provided on at least 1 side of each flight
2. Located on both sides if the stair or ramp is more than 2m wide
3. Intermediate handrails no more than 2m apart (this is an issue in many locations)
4. Fixed at a height of no more than 865mm above the nosing
5. Be continuous and have no obstructions around them that would break a handhold

NB there are additional requirements for some occupancies such as schools, hospitals and aged care facilities

For plant rooms and non habitable areas, the stairs and handrails may comply with AS1657.