S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Doc ID
939409
Custodian
OSH Consultancy and Field Services Manager
Approved
OSH Consultancy and Field Services Manager
Version Date
19 May 2015
Accountabilities Framework
Level 1: Manage Occupational Safety and
Health
Level 2: Manage Hazards and OSH Incidents
Stakeholders
Principal Engineer Electrical, MESB
Principal Engineer, Desal & Process Technology
Standards
Next Review Date
28 Nov 2017
1
Purpose
This standard provides information required for the correct selection and application of Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE), clothing and work wear. PPE comprises of a range of clothing and equipment that is worn
to protect the body from various workplace hazards, where the risks from those hazards cannot be
satisfactorily controlled through other means.
Content
1 Purpose ................................................................................................................................................... 1 2 Scope ...................................................................................................................................................... 3 3 Roles and Responsibilities ...................................................................................................................... 3 4 Standard – Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing ....................................................................... 3 4.1 Hierarchy of Controls .................................................................................................................... 3 4.2 Guideline for Enforcement ............................................................................................................ 4 4.2.1 Intentional Breaches ........................................................................................................... 4 4.2.2 Unintentional Breaches ....................................................................................................... 4 4.3 Selection of PPE ........................................................................................................................... 4 4.4 Training in the Use of PPE ............................................................................................................ 4 4.5 Minimum PPE Requirements for Operational Sites ...................................................................... 4 4.5.1 Safety Eyewear ................................................................................................................... 6 4.5.2 Safety Footwear .................................................................................................................. 6 4.5.3 High Visibility Clothing ........................................................................................................ 6 4.5.4 Safety Helmet ..................................................................................................................... 6 4.5.5 Long sleeved shirt and long pants ...................................................................................... 7 4.5.6 Hat or Helmet Brim ............................................................................................................. 7 4.5.7 Gloves ................................................................................................................................. 8 4.6 Hearing Protection Devices........................................................................................................... 8 4.7 Respiratory Protection................................................................................................................... 8 4.8 Personal Flotation Devices ........................................................................................................... 8 4.9 Inspection, Maintenance and Replacement of PPE ..................................................................... 9 4.10 PPE Variance for Sites / Tasks / Events ....................................................................................... 9 4.10.1 PPE Conflicts and Limitations............................................................................................. 9 4.10.2 PPE Variance Risk Assessment ......................................................................................... 9 4.10.3 Site-Specific PPE Requirements ...................................................................................... 10 4.10.4 Outdoors Events Organised or Sponsored by the Water Corporation ............................. 10 5 Records ................................................................................................................................................. 10 6 Definitions .............................................................................................................................................. 10 7 Compliance Mapping ............................................................................................................................. 11 8 References ............................................................................................................................................ 12 S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Appendix A Notes for Table 1 .............................................................................................................. 14 Appendix B Glove Characteristics ........................................................................................................ 15 Appendix C Respiratory Protection Types ........................................................................................... 16 Appendix D PPE Variance Risk Assessment ....................................................................................... 17 Appendix E Personal Protective Equipment for Electrical Workers ..................................................... 18 1 Purpose ................................................................................................................................................. 18 2 Scope .................................................................................................................................................... 18 3 Standard – PPE for Electrical Workers ................................................................................................. 18 3.1 General........................................................................................................................................ 18 3.2 Protective Clothing ...................................................................................................................... 18 3.2.1 Methodology for Determination of Minimum Requirements ............................................. 18 3.2.2 Minimum Protective Clothing Requirements .................................................................... 19 4 Inspection and Testing of PPE .............................................................................................................. 20 5 PPE Usage Guide ................................................................................................................................. 20 6 PPE Category Descriptions ................................................................................................................... 21 7 Preselected Electrical PPE .................................................................................................................... 22 8 Definitions .............................................................................................................................................. 23 9 Compliance Mapping ............................................................................................................................. 24 10 References ............................................................................................................................................ 24 Appendix F Personal Protective Equipment for Chemical Facilities .................................................... 25 11 Purpose ................................................................................................................................................. 25 12 Scope .................................................................................................................................................... 25 13 Personal Protective Equipment for Chemical Facilities......................................................................... 25 13.1 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Non-Hazardous Substances ................................................... 25 13.2 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Hazardous Substances that are not Corrosives ..................... 26 13.3 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Liquid Corrosives .................................................................... 26 13.3.1 Category A ........................................................................................................................ 29 13.3.2 Category B ........................................................................................................................ 29 13.3.3 Category C ........................................................................................................................ 29 13.3.4 Category D ........................................................................................................................ 30 13.4 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Chlorine and Ammonia Gas .................................................... 30 14 Definitions .............................................................................................................................................. 31 15 Compliance Mapping ............................................................................................................................. 31 16 References ............................................................................................................................................ 31 Appendix G SCBA and Canister Respirator Use.................................................................................. 32 1 Purpose ................................................................................................................................................. 32 2 Scope .................................................................................................................................................... 32 3 Roles and Responsibilities .................................................................................................................... 32 4 Training.................................................................................................................................................. 32 5 Standard – SCBA and Canister Respirator Use ................................................................................... 32 5.1 Facial Hair ................................................................................................................................... 32 5.2 Medical Assessment ................................................................................................................... 33 PRINT DATE: 22 JULY 2015
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
5.3 Replacement and Disposal of Canisters ..................................................................................... 33 5.4 SCBA Cylinder Refill ................................................................................................................... 33 5.5 SCBA Low Pressure Test (audible alarm) .................................................................................. 33 5.6 SCBA Maintenance and Inspection ............................................................................................ 33 5.7 Fit Checking / Testing of Facemasks .......................................................................................... 33 5.8 Storage of SCBA and Canister Respirators ................................................................................ 34 5.9 Speech Diaphragms.................................................................................................................... 34 6 Records ................................................................................................................................................. 34 7 Definitions .............................................................................................................................................. 34 8 References ............................................................................................................................................ 34 9 Compliance Mapping ............................................................................................................................. 35 2
Scope
This standard applies to Water Corporation employees at Water Corporation workplaces or other premises,
and in public areas where PPE and work clothing may be necessary in the course of work.
This standard also applies to the Water Corporation’s contractors and subcontractors.
Note: For the purpose of this document, employees shall be defined as all employees including Contract of Service
employees, Contract of Service personnel, and the personnel of the Corporation’s Alliance Contractors in performing the
services required under their respective alliance contracts.
3
Roles and Responsibilities
Position Title
Responsibilities
Water Corporation

Provide required PPE at no cost to employees.
Managers

Provide adequate resources for the purchase, maintenance and replacement of
PPE and work clothing in accordance with this standard.

Ensure PPE inspections are occurring.

Ensure non-compliance with PPE requirements is acted upon (advice regarding
action should be obtained from the HR Consultant).

Ensure adequate PPE and work clothing is provided for employees.

Inspect the use of PPE during workplace inspections to ensure PPE and work
clothing is worn in compliance with this standard.

Report non-compliance with PPE requirements to Managers.

Ensure employees and contractors dress in accordance with site requirements.

Ensure employees are trained in the use and maintenance of PPE items that require
training (i.e. respirators, hearing protection).

Wear PPE and work clothing as required by this Standard.

Comply with site-specific PPE requirements of their work area.

Comply with PPE in relevant work instructions, Safe Job Planning documentation,
Material Safety Data Sheets or other documentation.
Supervisors
Employees
4
Standard – Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
4.1 Hierarchy of Controls
The hierarchy of controls shall be considered when determining appropriate means of reducing risks to
safety and health. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is recognised as a lower order control measure.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Where practicable, other (higher order) means of reducing risk shall be utilised, alone or in conjunction with
PPE.
The complete elimination
of the hazard
1.
Elimination
2.
Substitution
3.
Isolation
4.
Engineering
5.
Administration
6.
PPE
Replacing the material or process
with a less hazardous one
Isolating the hazard by
guarding or enclosing it
Redesign the equipment
or work process
Providing controls such as
training and procedures
Use appropriate and properly fitted PPE
where other controls are not practical
4.2 Guideline for Enforcement
The Water Corporation has zero tolerance for breaches of OSH requirements.
4.2.1 Intentional Breaches
Intentional breaches of this Standard shall be followed up by the relevant manager and disciplinary action
may be taken which can include termination of employment.
Where a breach has been identified, the relevant manager should contact the HR Consultant to discuss the
appropriate follow up steps and consequence actions.
4.2.2 Unintentional Breaches
Where a breach is determined to have been unintentional the employee/contractor involved shall be
informed as to the requirements of this standard and the correct use and wearing of PPE.
4.3 Selection of PPE
PPE is intended to protect the user from certain aspects of harm when working with hazards. PPE shall
comply with the relevant Australian Standard or, where there is no relevant Australian Standard, other
international standards relevant to that type of PPE.
4.4 Training in the Use of PPE
Employees shall be provided with information on the correct storage, use, inspection, maintenance and
operational limitations of PPE. For some types of specialised PPE (such as SCBA) competency-based
training and assessment is also required. It is the responsibility of the Supervisor to ensure this training
occurs and is recorded.
4.5 Minimum PPE Requirements for Operational Sites
Table 1 outlines the mandatory minimum workplace PPE requirements for Water Corporation operational
sites and indicates where additional PPE items apply based on a risk assessment. A risk-based, common
sense decision approach should be applied when determining the duration of requirements aimed at
protection from sun exposure i.e. the risk may be determined as negligible very early in the morning and in
the early evening.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Where additional items of PPE are indicated by Material Safety Data Sheets, signage at worksites, Safe Job
Planning (e.g. Job Safety Environment Analysis), procedures / work instructions or regulatory requirements
for specific tasks, these items shall be worn in addition to those specified in Table 1.
*
Table 1 – Minimum workplace PPE Requirements for Operational Sites
Place of Work
(Refer Appendix A for
notes 1 – 9)
Safety
Eyewear
Safety
Footwear
(Refer 0)
(Refer 4.5.2)
High
Visibility
Vest/Shirt/
Jacket
Safety
Helmet
(Refer 4.5.4)
(Refer 4.5.3)
Construction sites
(Note 1)
Long
Sleeved
Shirt, Long
Pants
Hat or
helmet brim/
flap
Gloves
(Refer 4.5.7)
(Refer 4.5.6)
(Refer 4.5.5)
Carried on
person






Required
unless a R/A
proves it
unnecessary


Overhead work
or fall hazards

Worn where
required by R/A





Work below ground, or
where others may be
overhead (e.g. dry wells,
valve pits, water tank
sites) (Note 4)




For direct
sunlight only
Workshop interiors (e.g.
mechanical or electrical,
excluding desk based
work) (Note 5)
Required
unless a R/A
proves it
unnecessary

Worn where
required by R/A

Worn where
required by R/A

Worn where
required by R/A

Worn where
required by R/A
Construction/
refurbishment work within
a structure, not associated
with a construction site
(Note 2)
Public roadways and
verges (e.g. asset
inspection, surveying,
meter replacement)
(Note 3)
Workshop interiors
(desk based work)
(Note 6)
Treatment plants, dams
and similar operational
sites (Note 7)
Required
unless a R/A
proves it
unnecessary




For outdoors
work
Worn where
required by R/A
Carried on
person
Worn where
required by R/A
Carried on
person
Worn where
required by R/A
Worn where
required by R/A
Carried on
person
Worn where
required by R/A
Social functions and
events (Note 8)
Worn where
Worn where
Worn where
Worn where
Worn where
Worn where
Worn where
required by R/A required by R/A required by R/A required by R/A required by R/A required by R/A required by R/A
Incidental short term
exposure to the sun (e.g.
short walk between
buildings) (Note 9)
Sunglasses
recommended
Recommended
but not required
KEY: ‘’ indicates ‘is required’.
‘R/A’ indicates a risk assessment should be used to determine requirement based on activities and tasks to be undertaken.
* Can only be varied if PPE increases risk and/or PPE conflicts occur.
Refer Appendix A for Notes to Table 1.
Note: Specific PPE requirements for electrical work are detailed in Appendix E Personal Protective Equipment for
Electrical Workers.
Specific PPE requirements for personnel entering or approaching chemical dosing facilities are outlined in
Appendix F.
Where non-electrical staff are required to operate switchgear as part of an isolation process, they shall undertake a task
risk assessment and seek technical guidance from electrical staff to identify higher risk sites where flame retardant PPE
should be used during the switching activity.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
4.5.1 Safety Eyewear
Eye protection shall be worn according to the minimum standards specified in Table 1 for work on
operational and construction sites and in workshops, unless an exemption applies.
Typical hazards may include flying particles, dust, splashing substances and welding flashes. Consideration
shall be given to the need for protecting persons who are working nearby or that pass close to the hazardous
areas. Guidance for the selection of eye protection is provided in AS/NZS 1337. Safety eyewear is designed
to meet required characteristics to protect the wearer, and shall not be tampered with (i.e. by removal of side
shields from safety glasses).
Eye protection is required at all sites without exception under the following conditions:

Grinding – full medium impact face shield and if vision permits, safety glasses or mono goggles
are required.

Welding – clear safety glasses and medium impact welding helmet are required.

Use of powered tools – safety glasses and /or medium impact face shield shall be used in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Using chemicals – safety glasses, goggles or full face shield, as documented on Material Safety
Data Sheets.

Employees working in conditions where they are exposed to airborne particles or eye hazards
(i.e. bushes and trees) – as a minimum, employees shall wear low impact safety glasses (with
Australian Standard compliant frames and lenses) to protect eyes from contact. Mono goggles
should be worn in high dust areas where injury is more likely

Exposure to the sun – tinted safety glasses shall be worn as a minimum.
Guidelines for the provision or subsidy of prescription Safety Glasses for Water Corporation employees are
covered in Prescription Safety Glasses. Photochromic safety glasses, commonly known as ‘transitions’
lenses, are not suitable for all conditions as the lens transition from dark to lighter is not instantaneous. They
should not be used when operating mobile plant between different light conditions (e.g. operating a forklift
between indoor and outdoor areas) and may not be suitable for use at night / twilight.
4.5.2 Safety Footwear
Safety footwear (safety boots with a steel or composite toecap) shall be worn on all operational sites, as per
(Table 1). Visitors to operational sites may be exempt from these requirements when a risk assessment has
proved it unnecessary in specific areas (i.e. exclusion zones) and when accompanied throughout their visit.
Where safety footwear exemptions exist, visitors shall wear enclosed, flat soled footwear as a minimum.
Meter Readers who only perform meter reading tasks are exempt from the requirement for wearing Safety
boots with a steel or composite toecap, but their footwear must be rated as Occupational footwear Class O1
or O2 as per AS 2210 Occupational Protective Footwear.
Note: Refer to the factsheet Ergonomics guidance for Meter Readers for more guidance on footwear
selection for Meter Readers.
4.5.3 High Visibility Clothing
A high visibility garment shall be worn on all operational sites, including depots, as per Table 1. A high
visibility shirt or jacket may be worn as an alternative to a high visibility vest. Visitors to operational sites may
be exempt from these requirements when a risk assessment has proved it unnecessary in specific areas (i.e.
exclusion zones), and when accompanied throughout their visit. High visibility garments shall be orange or
yellow, and shall have reflective tape when worn at night or in low light conditions.
When undertaking activities close to ignition sources (i.e. welding), flame resistant high visibility clothing shall
be used.
4.5.4 Safety Helmet
A safety helmet (hard hat) shall be worn on all construction sites as per Table 1 and at all times where there
is a risk of being struck by a falling object or other credible risk of head injury.
No other headwear, such as caps, bandanas or beanies shall be worn under the safety helmet.
Where the safety helmet is worn outdoors in daylight conditions, a legionnaire’s flap or wide brim shall be
worn to provide sun protection for the ears and neck.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
At the time of issue to the wearer, the helmet shall be marked with an issue date on the sticker provided by
the manufacturer for this purpose.
All safety helmet components and accessories should be visually inspected prior to use by the wearer, for
signs of dents, cracks, penetration, excessive discolouration of the shell colour, weathering of the surface or
other damage which may indicate a loss of strength.
Helmets showing damage or deterioration to the shell shall be immediately withdrawn from service and
discarded (completely destroyed). Helmets with intact shell but with damaged or defective harness
components should be withdrawn from service and the harness and cradle shall be replaced.
Under no circumstances are helmets to be subjected to paint or solubles, as these can have a detrimental
effect on the material from which the helmets are made and render them less effective.
Helmets which have been in regular use for three (3) years from the date of issue should be regularly
inspected and replaced as necessary. Helmets that are stored out of the sun and not used often (such as
building or fire warden helmets, site visitors helmets or helmets stored in PPE bags) generally last longer and
should be inspected as part of workplace inspections . Helmets that are in good condition can be used for up
to a maximum of 10 years from date of issue (or date of manufacture, if no date of issue has been noted).
Plastic components of harnesses may deteriorate more rapidly when in continual use and in these cases
harnesses should be replaced at intervals not longer than two (2) years from the date of issue.
4.5.5 Long sleeved shirt and long pants
Long sleeved shirts and long pants shall be worn when working on all operational sites.
Long sleeved shirts shall have a collar, and sleeves shall remain fully extended to wrist level. Long pants
shall be fully extended to ankle level.
Where Water Corporation employees are required to wear a uniform in accordance with PCY008 Uniform
Policy - Field and Office, long sleeved shirts and long pants should be sourced from the Water Corporation’s
Corporate Workwear Catalogue, as appropriate fabric and Ultra Violet Factored (UPF) garments have been
selected to offer the best protection. As a guide, fabric for long sleeved shirts should have a UPF rating of
40-50+ and fabric for long pants should have a UPF rating of 30+.
Where Water Corporation employees are not required to wear a uniform under PCY008 Uniform Policy Field and Office, it is recommended that long sleeved shirts and long pants are sourced from the Water
Corporation’s Corporate Work wear Catalogue.
When sourced outside the Water Corporation’s approved range of corporate work wear clothing, long
sleeved shirts and long pants should offer the same level of protection offered by the garments within the
approved range.
Note: 8Appendix E Personal Protective Equipment for Electrical Workers specifies the minimum standard
requirements of protective clothing for electrical work where an electrical hazard exists.
4.5.6 Hat or Helmet Brim
Water Corporation guidelines for work in the heat or sun exposure are contained in the Heat and Sun
Exposure guideline. Where practicable, higher order controls should be considered to reduce exposure to
the sun (i.e. providing shade or scheduling outdoor work to hours other than the middle of the day).
When an individual is working outdoors, personal protection shall be worn in the form of protective clothing
(i.e. hat, long sleeved shirt and long pants) in accordance with Table 1 of this standard. A sun-protective hat
does not need to be worn when it is raining, nor when working in a pit where there is no direct exposure to
the sun.
It is recommended that hats, for prolonged outdoor exposure, are sourced from the Water Corporation’s
corporate work wear catalogue. In instances where hats are sourced outside of this range, they shall provide
the minimum level of protection offered by the hats in the Water Corporation approved range. As a guide,
wide brimmed hats should have a brim of at least 70 mm and bucket hats should have a brim of at least 60
mm (casting a shadow equivalent to the 70 mm wide-brimmed hat).
Sunscreen should also be worn to provide protection from reflected sunlight to any exposed skin areas.
Sunscreen shall be SPF 30+ in accordance with AS/NZS 2604 Sunscreen Products – Evaluation and
Classification.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Safety sunglasses conforming to AS/NZS 1337, with lenses complying with AS 1067 Sunglasses and
Fashion Spectacles – Safety Requirements, are required for work outdoors during daylight hours.
4.5.7 Gloves
Gloves should be worn for activities where there is a risk of injury to the hand and where the wearing of
gloves does not increase the risk of a more severe injury occurring than would occur without gloves. Site
managers should conduct a risk assessment to determine the tasks and activities that require gloves and
ensure that glove requirements are notified to all employees and contractors working in the area.
Note: Refer to Appendix B for a guide to characteristics of various types of gloves.
4.6 Hearing Protection Devices
Water Corporation standards for managing risks of noise are contained in S147 Noise and Vibration. Where
other means of reducing noise exposure are not practicable or satisfactorily reliable, hearing protection shall
be provided and used where noise levels are likely to exceed an 8hr Time Weighted Average (TWA) of
85dB(A) or over peak levels of 140dB(C).
Guidance on managing noise and relevant PPE is provided in AS/NZS 1269 Occupational Noise
Management, and in AS/NZS 1270 Acoustics – Hearing Protectors.
Note: Refer to the Hearing Protection Selection Chart for specific guidance for the selection and use of
hearing protection devices.
4.7 Respiratory Protection
Respiratory protective equipment shall be worn where there is exposure to airborne contaminants or a
deficiency in oxygen, and shall be selected and worn in accordance with AS/NZS 1716 Respiratory
Protective Devices. Where an adequate facial fit cannot be achieved with a disposable or reusable
respirator, a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) shall be used.
Only respiratory protection of the supplied air type (such as Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) provides
protection against oxygen deficiency.
Respiratory protection devices shall be selected with regard to the potential airborne contaminants in the
work area. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) may provide information about the types of potential
airborne contaminants and the types of personal protective equipment to be worn. A flowchart outlining the
types of respiratory protective equipment is provided in Appendix C. Guidance on the selection and usage of
respiratory protection is provided in AS/NZS 1716 and AS/NZS 1715. If in doubt, advice should be sought
from the suppliers of the relevant respiratory device.
Refer to Appendix G for requirements for SCBA and Canister Respirator Use.
4.8 Personal Flotation Devices
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) shall be provided to employees and worn where:

a person works over or within two (2) metres of water or other liquid and they are working alone, and

there is a credible risk of falling into the water or other liquid and drowning.
The requirement to wear PFDs may also be specified by Rescue Plans associated with tasks in accordance
with S467 Rescue Planning
PFDs shall comply with AS 4758 Personal Flotation Devices and provide ‘Level 150’ buoyancy. The PFDs
shall automatically inflate upon contact with water. PFDs shall be purchased from an authorised sales agent.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
PFDs must display a service date and shall be serviced by the manufacturer or an authorised servicing
agent:

Following each activation of the automatic-inflation mechanism.
 Periodically, in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications. Where no servicing interval is
specified by the manufacturer, a service shall be performed annually.
 Branch / Regional Managers / Contractors shall ensure that routine servicing of PFDs are scheduled
(e.g. using SAP PM04 work orders) and that inspection records are maintained in accordance with
Section 5.
PFDs shall be visually inspected before each use for signs of wear and tear and to verify that the PFD
displays an up-to-date service date.
4.9 Inspection, Maintenance and Replacement of PPE
PPE shall be properly maintained and regularly inspected by the user before each use. This shall include
provision for the appropriate storage, cleaning and servicing of PPE. PPE should be serviced and/or
replaced in line with manufacturer’s guidelines or when there is obvious sign of wear and tear. Replacement
PPE shall be issued at no cost to the employee. PPE should be replaced when:

the safe working life has expired (as specified by the manufacturer if the equipment);

it is worn to a point that its function is impaired; or

it is damaged or defective in a way that its function is impaired.
4.10 PPE Variance for Sites / Tasks / Events
4.10.1 PPE Conflicts and Limitations
Where the risk to the individual is likely to be increased through the use of a component of PPE, or where the
requirement to wear one item of PPE may impede the wearing of another item of PPE, then that item of PPE
may be omitted subject to the PPE variance being documented and risk assessed as part of the Safe Job
Planning for the task (refer to WC-OSH 007 Safe Job Planning).
For specific tasks or work areas that require PPE variance on an ongoing basis, a PPE Variance Risk
Assessment shall be completed (refer to Section 4.10.2).
4.10.2 PPE Variance Risk Assessment
If site-specific PPE requirements are required to deviate from the minimum requirements set out in Table 1
on an ongoing basis, the Line Manager in control of the work area shall document and risk assess these
alternative PPE requirements using a PPE Variance Risk Assessment form. The risk assessment shall be
conducted prior to the PPE being omitted or changed to ensure that appropriate measures to control the risk
are in place. The risk assessment needs to capture the following specific information:

A description of the operational area(s) and operator group(s) covered the risk assessment.

A description of the task(s) covered by the risk assessment.

A detailed description of the issue(s) created by the standard PPE and the associated hazard rating.

A detailed description of the proposed alternative PPE and how this better addresses the hazard.

Any residual risks created (or better controlled) by the variance in PPE.

The Line Manager in control of the work area shall endorse this risk assessment and store the
record in accordance with Section 5. The endorsed PPE requirements shall be communicated to
workers and affected new starters, contractors and visitors at induction.
Note: Alternative PPE that better control operational risks can contribute towards continuous improvement of
standard PPE requirements and should be shared with the custodian of this standard for further
consideration.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
4.10.3 Site-Specific PPE Requirements
Site-specific PPE requirements (where there is a variation from the minimum requirements of Table 1) shall
be communicated to personnel visiting from another business area through the site visit notification and site
induction processes (refer to WC-OSH 033 Site Entry) if required for the purposes of their visit.
4.10.4 Outdoors Events Organised or Sponsored by the Water Corporation
It is likely that the PPE specified for outdoor recreational events will vary from the minimum PPE
requirements for normal operational activities (Table 1). For events organised by the Water Corporation, the
Event Organiser shall document and risk assess this PPE variance using the PPE Variance Risk
Assessment form.
Requirements for sun and other hazard protection should be determined by the event organiser and
consideration should be given to:

the level of cardiovascular activity involved

the degree and duration of exposure to the sun

the functional requirements of the event

the frequency and duration of the event(s)

what measures should be implemented for protection from these hazards

what measures will be taken to provide protection from hazards such as sun exposure.
If Water Corporation employees participating in an externally organised event are uncertain of the PPE
requirements, the event organiser should be contacted and official guidance requested.
5
Records
Records associated with the personal protective equipment and clothing shall be filed in accordance with the
Water Corporation Records Retention and Disposal Schedule, with the filing convention, retention period and
disposition type outlined below:
Record
To be retained by
Filing convention
Retained for
(time period)
Disposition
Type
PPE Risk
Assessment
Branch Manager of
the relevant work
area
OSH - Risk Management - Identification and
Analysis - Risk Assessment – [Location or
Business Unit Name]
Retain 2 years
active storage
Destroy after
10 years
Safety Equipment
Registers
Branch Manager of
the relevant work
area
Information Management – Control - Registers
and Registration – [Name of Register] –
[Location or Business Unit Name]
Retain 2 years
active storage
Destroy after 7
years
PPE Maintenance
Records
Branch Manager of
the relevant work
area
Supply and Suppliers - Maintenance - Personal
Protective Equipment PPE – [Location or
Business Unit Name]
Retain 2 years
active storage
Destroy after 7
years
Including records of:

Site Specific
Risk
Assessment

Event Specific
Risk
Assessment
6
Definitions
Term
Description
Construction Site
A workplace at which construction work is done and includes any adjoining area where plant or
other materials used, or to be used in connection with that work are located or kept, and over
which the main contractor has control for the purpose of doing the construction work.
Construction/Refurbishment
work within a building not
associated with a construction
site
All internal construction, restoration and refurbishment work (i.e. office refurbishment).
Event Organiser
The individual who is responsible for organising an event or liaising with external contacts to
organise corporate participation in an event.
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PAGE 10 OF 35
S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Term
Description
Hat
Wide brimmed hat, bucket hat, legionnaire’s hat, safety helmet hat brim or safety helmet with
legionnaire’s flap; must be capable of casting a face shadow equal to that of a hat with a forward
projection from the forehead of 70mm.
Incidental Exposure
Short duration exposure to the sun during work hours, in which no direct or short term harm results
from the exposure (i.e. short walk between buildings, ‘walking meetings’ outdoors, walking from the
car park to the nearest building).
JSEA
A documented risk assessment which breaks down the job into work steps with the identified
hazards and required control measures formally recorded for each step.
Long Pants
Pants that remain fully extended to ankle level.
Long Sleeved Shirt
A collared shirt with long sleeves that remain fully extended to wrist level.
Non-operational Site
Sites where no operational work is undertaken including, but not limited to office buildings, office
areas of depots.
Operational Site
Any site where operational work is undertaken including, but not limited to, depots, workshops,
treatment plants, dams, construction sites and excavation sites.
PAPR
Powered air purifying respirator
Personal Flotation Device
(PFD)
A garment or device which, when correctly worn and used in water, will provide the user with a
specific amount of buoyancy which will increase the likelihood of survival.
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is any clothing, equipment or substance designed to protect
a person from risks of injury or illness.
Public Roadways and Verges
Operational work conducted on roadways or verges, not the momentary presence in these areas,
such as alighting from a vehicle and walking into a building (e.g. asset inspection, surveying, meter
replacement).
Respirator
A personal respiratory protective device that is designed to prevent the inhalation of contaminated
air.
Responsible Person
Supervisor of workers undertaking the work. It is the responsibility of the Responsible Person to
identify and control hazards/risks arising from the work itself.
Shall
A mandatory requirement.
Should
Recommended, but non mandatory.
Treatment plants, dams and
similar operational sites
Work/Treatment/Process areas such as groundwater or wastewater treatment plants, pump
stations, bore fields, pits and at treatment areas of dam sites.
Work wear
Clothing required to aid personal safety in the workplace (i.e. closed in, non-slip shoes).
7
Compliance Mapping
Task
Compliance
Personal Protective
Equipment and Clothing
Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984
Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996
Code of Practice: First Aid Facilities and Services, Workplace Amenities and Facilities, Personal
Protective Clothing and Equipment
AS 1067 Sunglasses and Fashion Spectacles
AS/NZS 1269 Occupational Noise Management
AS/NZS 1270 Hearing Protectors
AS/NZS 1319 Signs for the Occupational Environment
AS/NZS 1336 Eye and Face Protection - Guidelines
AS/NZS 1337 Eye Protectors for Industrial Applications
AS/NZS 1715 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Devices
AS/NZS 1716 Respiratory Protective Devices
AS/NZS 1715 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment.
AS/NZS 1801 Occupational Protective Helmets
AS/NZS 1906 Retroreflective Materials
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PAGE 11 OF 35
S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Task
Compliance
AS/NZS 2161 Occupational Protective Gloves
AS/NZS 2210 Occupational Protective Footwear
AS 4758 Personal Flotation Devices
AS/NZS 2225 Insulating Gloves for Electrical Purposes
AS/NZS 2604 Sunscreen Products – Evaluation and Classification
AS/NZS 2919 Industrial Clothing
AS/NZS 4836 Safe Working on Low Voltage Electrical Installations
ENA NENS 09-2006 National Guidelines for the Selection, Use and Maintenance of Personal
Protective Equipment for Electrical Hazards
IEC 61482-1-1Ed. 1.0 2009 Live Working – Protective Clothing Against the Thermal Hazards of an
Electric Arc - Part 1-1: Test Methods
American Standard NFPA 70E 2009 – Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace
National Standards for Commercial Vessels
8
References
Document Number
Title
Ergonomics guidance for Meter Readers
Hearing Protection Selection Chart
Heat and Sun Exposure Guideline
WC-OSH 118
High Voltage Switching Practice (ME-2)
S147
Noise and Vibration
PPE Variance Risk Assessment Form
Prescription Safety Glasses
S467
Rescue Planning
S389
Risk Assessment Criteria
WC-OSH 007
Safe Job Planning
WC-OSH 033
Sites Entry
PCY008
Uniform Policy – Field and Office
Document Revision History
10 Dec 2007
Expanded headings. Added more guidance information and examples. Change to first page header.
28 Jul 2008
Include requirement for long pants when working outdoors, exempt wide brimmed hats during rain and in shaded
pits, exempt helmet brims (subject to a risk assessment) where strong winds may predispose to neck injury,
exempt wearing of safety glasses for desk-based work indoors and addition of special consideration for
exemption from full requirements of the procedure for corporately sponsored recreational, sporting events
(subject to approval from the Branch Manager).
5 Jan 2009
Notes pg. 12, point 2 – PPE exemptions at construction sites allowed (subject to a risk assessment) if considered
equally or more safe. Notes pg. 13, point 6 – example of workshop and depot added. Notes pg. 13, point 9 – hat
to have minimum forward projection from the forehead of 70 mm.
19 Jan 2009
Document ID and version date updated.
16 Feb 2009
Format updated to align with CorDocs template for Standards. Defined PPE requirements for operational sites
versus office sites. Clarified PPE requirements for incidental exposures. The ‘bucket’ hat has been included in
the list of approved PPE items. Mandatory minimum requirements for eye protection on all operational and
construction sites. Documented risk assessments determine PPE exemptions in clearly specified work areas,
and/or for specified work tasks. Roles and responsibilities, and guidelines for enforcement of S022 included.
24 Feb 2009
Section updated to include a high visibility clothing exemption for visitors to an operational site.
10 Jun 2011
Standard updated to include specific information on PPE requirements for electrical workers.
26 Aug 2011
Table 1: Changed definition of R/A from ‘required unless a documented Risk Assessment proves it unnecessary’
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Document Revision History
to ‘a risk assessment should be used to determine requirement based on activities and tasks to be undertaken’.
13 Jan 2014
Section on Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) added. Changed requirement to carry gloves in some scenarios
on Table 1. Refer to MOC # 9936494 and #10129797.
09 May 2014
Addition of new appendices: Personal protective equipment for facilities; SCBA and canister respirator use.
Updated risk assessment tool (now ‘PPE Variance Risk Assessment’). Clarified requirement to wear PFDs when
working alone. Introduced general footwear exemption for dedicated meter readers (personnel who only perform
meter reading tasks). Refer to MOC #10098196, #9269724 and #10390217.
28 Nov 2014
AS/NZS 1336 ‘Recommended Practices for Occupational Eye Protection’ has changed name to ‘Eye and Face
Protection – Guidelines’.
20 Feb 2015
Name change WC-OSH 033 Site Visits to WC-OSH 033 Site Entry - References in this document have been
updated. Refer to MOC# 10613042
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Appendix A Notes for Table 1
1.
Construction Sites. Safety eyewear, safety footwear, high visibility clothing, safety helmet (with brim
or flap attached for outdoors work) and long sleeved shirt and pants are required for work on all
construction sites. Gloves required to be carried upon the person at all times and worn where required
by a risk assessment.
2.
Construction/refurbishment work within a building not associated with a construction site.
Safety eyewear is required unless a risk assessment (PPE Variance Risk Assessment) outlines
specific areas or tasks where they are proved unnecessary. Safety helmets are required for all
overhead work or where fall hazards exist.
3.
Public roadways and verges (e.g. asset inspection, surveying, meter replacement).
Requirements in Table 1 are not intended to apply for momentary presence in these areas, such as
alighting from a vehicle and walking to a building. Safety eyewear should be worn when working
around bushes.
4.
Work below ground, or where others may be overhead (e.g. dry wells, valve pits, water tank
sites). Hats are not required when it is raining, when working below ground or when partially shaded
(e.g. in a shaded pit).
5.
Workshop interiors (e.g. mechanical or electrical, excluding desk based work). Safety eyewear
is required unless a risk assessment (PPE Variance Risk Assessment) outlines specific areas or tasks
where they are proved unnecessary.
6.
Workshop interiors (desk based work). Requirements in Table 1 are intended to apply to a
designated work desk in a workshop or depot, removed from eye hazards associated with work
undertaken in the workshop or depot.
7.
Treatment plants, dams and similar operational sites. Other than long sleeves, pants and sun hat,
the requirements in (Table 1) are not intended to apply to areas on sites such as offices and amenities
areas, or public areas of dam sites.
8.
Social functions and events. The event organiser should use their discretion when completing a risk
assessment and putting risk mitigation strategies in place to determine safety requirements (including
PPE) for social functions and events. The Risk Assessment (PPE Variance Risk Assessment) should
focus on protection from sun exposure, but equally protection from any other hazards caused by the
nature of the activity and surroundings.
9.
Incidental short term exposure to the sun. PPE should be worn where incidental short term sun
exposure could result in immediate harm (i.e. exposure to the sun for the specified duration will result
in sunburn). A walk from the car park to the nearest building would be classified as incidental
exposure. Where the walk from the car park to the building occurs on an operational site, it is
important to give adequate consideration to other PPE hazards (e.g. the need for high visibility
clothing). A Risk Assessment shall be used to assess other PPE hazards.
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S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Punctures
Cuts/Lacerations

Abrasion



Hot Temperatures

*






Cold Temperatures
*
#
*

Pigskin

Rubber

Kevlar
Neoprene
*
Leather
*
Nitrile
Chemicals
PVC
HAZARD
Vinyl
Cotton
Appendix B Glove Characteristics





*
Water


Static Electricity
Grip

Hand Fatigue
Key:


Provides good protection

Provides excellent protection
#
Provides limited protection
*
Depends on style
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


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*


PAGE 15 OF 35
S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Appendix C Respiratory Protection Types
Major Types of Respirators
Air Purifying
Non-powered
Filer Selfrescue
Gas Filter
Supplied Air
Powered
Particulate
Filter
Combination
Filter
Respirators supplied by a remote
source of air
Respirators supplied by
air at or near
atmospheric pressure
Respirators supplied by
compressed air
Air Hose
Air
Air Hose
Line
Natural
Breathing
Manually
Operated
Blower
Electronically
Operated
Blower
Respirators supplied by a source of
oxygen or air carried by the wearer
SCBA
Compressed
Air
Compressed
Oxygen
Liquid
Oxygen
Chemical
Oxygen
Mode of Air Delivery
Natural
Breathing
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Continuous
Flow
WARNING: DOCUMENT UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Negative
Pressure
Positive
Pressure
PAGE 16 OF 35
S022 Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Appendix D PPE Variance Risk Assessment
PPE Variance Risk Assessment form
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S022 Appendix E – Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical Workers
Appendix E Personal Protective Equipment for Electrical Workers
1
Purpose
The purpose of this standard is to provide the Water Corporation requirements for personal protective
equipment (PPE) for electrical workers.
2
Scope
This standard applies to Water Corporation electrical workers including Operations and Maintenance Alliance
electrical personnel at Water Corporation workplaces or other premises, and in public areas where PPE may
be necessary in the course of work.
This standard also applies to the Corporation’s Electrical Contractors and sub-contractors. PPE used by
contractors and subcontractors for the activities described in this document shall have flame retardant
properties equal to or higher than the Water Corporation’s selected PPE.
3
Standard – PPE for Electrical Workers
3.1 General
A risk assessment shall be undertaken prior to commencing work to identify electrical hazards. Where
electrical hazards are identified, the use of PPE shall be considered as the final control measure in the
application of the hierarchy of controls.
PPE shall be used in conjunction with other control measures, or when other control measures are not
possible or practicable. Should it be deemed that the use of PPE in conjunction with other control measures
cannot adequately protect the individual, the work method should be re-examined for an alternative
approach.
PPE shall be selected, used and maintained in a manner so as to avoid or minimise unacceptable risks by
ensuring:

suitability for the purpose

correct fit

appropriate maintenance and inspection procedures.
All PPE shall be visibly inspected immediately prior to use for signs of damage, deterioration and legibility of
markings. All PPE should be cared for in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. PPE
identified as having any defect or being out of date shall be replaced or withdrawn from service.
Persons required to use PPE shall be competent to select, use and maintain any such PPE.
When retro reflective material is required, it shall be in accordance with AS/NZS 1906.4 and be nonconductive. Only retro reflective PPE made from materials with flame retardant properties shall be used.
3.2 Protective Clothing
3.2.1 Methodology for Determination of Minimum Requirements
When determining the minimum standard requirements of protective clothing for electrical work, where
electrical hazards exist, it is necessary to consider a range of factors including, but not limited to:

prospective fault current

fault duration

distance from the arc

conducting materials

properties of the clothing fabrics

wearer comfort

climatic conditions.
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S022 Appendix E – Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical Workers
3.2.2 Minimum Protective Clothing Requirements
The minimum protective clothing for electrical work where electrical hazards exist shall:

have properties not inferior to clothing referred to in Section 7.

be worn so that the body is covered from neck to wrist to ankle; shirt, coat or jacket, and/or
overalls shall be fastened at both the wrist and neck area

have non-metallic fasteners or have fasteners protected by a layer of the same material as that
of the garment on both the top and undersides

be maintained in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions.
Note: Both the baseball cap style hood and switching hood (see Section 7) meet all the criteria for eye and
arc flash head protection.
Gloves
Insulating
Insulating gloves shall be selected, used and maintained in accordance with
AS 2225. They shall:
 be worn at all times when there is a risk of accidental contact with live
electrical equipment (unless other measures are applied that control the
risk)
 have a voltage rating appropriate for the work being undertaken
 be worn on each hand
 be free from harmful physical irregularities on both the inner and outer
surfaces which may degrade the quality of the glove and/or the insulating
properties of the glove (i.e. where moisture or contaminants may collect)

be worn under arc protective gloves when both types of glove are
required (refer Note 6).
Arc Protective
Arc Protective Gloves shall be selected to comply with IEC 61482-1-1 Ed. 1.0
2009. They shall:
 be worn at all times when there is an increased likelihood of an arc fault
occurring due to the electrical work being undertaken
 be worn on each hand.
 be worn over insulating gloves when both types of glove are required
(refer Note 6).
Safety Footwear
Appropriate footwear shall be selected, used and maintained in accordance
with AS/NZS 2210.1 for all work where there is a potential for exposure to
electrical hazards.
Eye Protection
Eye protection and/or face protection in accordance with AS/NZS 1336 and
AS/NZS 1337 shall be worn at all times.
In determining appropriate eye protection, consideration shall be given to:
 lenses that could minimise the effects of arc and flash
 non-conductive frames
 side shields or ‘wrap around’ designs.
Arc Flash Head
Protection
Arc flash rated head protection shall be worn at all times when:
 there is a potential for exposure to electrical arc hazards (unless other
measures are applied that control the risk)
 risk assessment identifies the need.
Hearing Protection
Hearing protection in accordance with AS/NZS 1270 shall be worn at all times
when:
 there is an increased likelihood of explosion occurring due to the electrical
work being undertaken
 as a minimum, hearing protection shall be an ear plug type.
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S022 Appendix E – Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical Workers
Underclothes
It is recommended that underclothes made of natural fibres (i.e. cotton)
should be worn underneath arc flash rated clothing as high temperatures of
arc flash will melt some fibres.
Additional
Requirements
Whilst performing electrical work in the vicinity of live electrical equipment,
metallic bracelets, rings, neck chains, metal zips, or watches, shall not be
worn.
Before performing electrical work requiring PPE described as Cat 1, 2 or 3 in
Table 2, all other items of outer clothing not made of natural fibres shall be
removed for the duration of the task.
4
Inspection and Testing of PPE
All PPE shall be visibly inspected immediately prior to use for signs of damage, deterioration and legibility of
markings. Where applicable, the due date for tests shall be checked to ensure currency.
5
PPE Usage Guide
The degree of risk associated with electrical work depends on the likelihood of an arc flash, potential arc
flash energy and separation from the conductor. The selection of PPE is therefore based on risk.
The guide below represents the basic PPE requirements. Every situation shall be assessed individually, and
the potential for harm assessed. To simplify the considerations, the PPE selection has been grouped
according to the likely available arc fault energy based on the transformer size supplying the switchboard(s)
in an area. When considering risk, the user should take into account the size of the supply transformer, the
protective devices, their rating, the type of work to be undertaken, the age of the installation and the
components history in making a choice. Every installation has the potential to be a threat to the safe
execution of work, so as the threat increases, so should the level of PPE selected.
The recommendations in Table 2 represent the minimum level PPE requirement for that category of activity.
The level of PPE may be increased if special conditions or circumstances require it. Each individual taking
part in electrical work shall be aware of these requirements and consult the table to select an appropriate
mitigation level, ensuring they are adequately protected for the period of the activity.
PPE shall be selected to provide a level of protection where no harm will be sustained should an unplanned
event take place.
Encumbering PPE may be removed only if a full isolation of the equipment has been completed, and it has
been locked, tagged, and proven with tests, to be de-energised.
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PAGE 20 OF 35
S022 Appendix E – Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical Workers
6
PPE Category Descriptions
Cat 0: Heavy cotton or flame retardant clothing, safety shoes, safety glasses.
Cat 1: Flame retardant clothing, flame retardant gloves, safety shoes, safety glasses.
Cat 2: Flame retardant clothing, flame retardant gloves, safety shoes, flame retardant hood (cap type).
Cat 3: Flame retardant clothing, flame retardant gloves, safety shoes, switching jacket (20 cal), switching
hood (helmet type), ear protection (plugs).
or
Heavy cotton clothing, flame retardant gloves, safety shoes, switching jacket (40 cal), switching
hood (helmet type), ear protection (plugs).
The following table refers to minimum PPE required for specific electrical activities.
Table 2 - Minimum PPE for Specific Electrical Activities
Activity
(Notes 1 and 5)
LV < 300 kVA
(Note 4)
LV ≥ 300 kVA
(Note 4)
HV (> 1 kV)
(Note 2)
External inspection
Cat 0
Cat 1
Cat 1 (note 3)
Testing ancillaries (note 6)
Cat 1
Cat 1
Cat 1 (note 3)
Inspecting - Internal
Cat 1
Cat 2
Cat 2 (note 3)
Switching (note 2)
Cat 1
Cat 2
Cat 3
Testing low energy power circuits (note 6)
Cat 1
Cat 1
N/A
Testing main power circuits (note 6)
Cat 2
Cat 3
N/A
Earthing
Cat 2
Cat 3
Cat 3
Activity Definitions
The following definitions of activities all relate to when a worker is potentially exposed to live conductors:

External Inspection: Visual inspection of operational equipment with doors or panels open. No part of
the body enters the confines of the switchboard.

Internal Inspection: Any part of the worker’s body entering the switchboard space to observe
functional operation of electrical components.

Switching: Changing the operational state of a functional unit i.e. isolator, fuse switch, disconnector,
circuit breaker, manual spring charger, integral earth mechanisms, fuse insertion/removal.

Testing ancillaries: Commissioning or maintenance live testing and fault finding of control circuits ≤240 V ac
or ≤110 V dc.

Testing low energy power circuits: On low energy circuits ≤ 15 kW (30 amps) – commissioning or
maintenance testing of live circuits, live fault finding, removing fuses or links, phasing out, testing for
dead.

Testing main power circuits: On high energy circuits > 15 kW (30 amps) - commissioning or
maintenance testing of live circuits live fault finding, removing fuses or links, phasing out, testing for
dead.

Earthing: Application of portable earths after isolation.
Note: Whenever covers are removed from switchboards, thereby significantly increasing the risk of exposure
to arc flash, site access shall be controlled to prevent unauthorised entry.
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PAGE 21 OF 35
S022 Appendix E – Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical Workers
Subject to undertaking a Safe Job Planning Assessment, a minimum of Cat 0 PPE may be considered
sufficient protection when working within dedicated Control Panels (i.e. SCADA, Fire Monitoring panel,
Instrumentation panel, Security panels) and similar situations where the power supply is less than 250 V
single phase and protected by a fuse or circuit breaker rated not greater than 20 Amps.
Explanatory Notes:
Note 1 Activities that inherently contain additional risk are to be controlled. In such cases, required
outcomes shall be planned to ensure all steps are only undertaken with the switchboard,
conductors or associated panels isolated. Examples are removal of covers from compartments
containing live conductors, direct connection of test equipment to high energy conductors (without
suitable arc fault limiting devices), operating energised devices while doors are open, demounting
MCC compartments, insertion or removal (racking) of CBs or devices while doors are open.
Note 2 All HV activities and testing must be undertaken as per the requirements of WC-OSH 118 High
Voltage Switching Practice (ME-2). Also note that some switching activities require the use of HV
rated insulating gloves. Refer to ME-2 for details.
Note 3 Activities associated with HV switchboards assumes that there are no live HV conductors within the
space to be inspected. However, conductors in adjacent compartments may potentially be live.
Note 4 The transformer size selected is indicative of a nominal fault current of 10kA
Note 5 Cat 2 (or Cat 3 PPE for ≥ 300 kVA) shall be adopted for any work inside walk-in switchboards. All
work in this circumstance is considered a higher risk due to the lack of protection from exposed
conductors.
Note 6 Insulating gloves are also required due to the risk of unintended contact with live electrical
equipment.
7
Preselected Electrical PPE
Below is the general description for Flame Retardant clothing and other PPE required to be used in
combinations to meet the Categories described in Section 6. The range of PPE has been chosen to exceed
the minimum requirements of Australian Standards and to also comply with the Flame Retardant properties
defined in American Standard NFPA 70E 2009.
The clothing shall be selected from the Water Corporation Corporate Clothing, Electrical Workwear
Catalogue as published by Procurement Branch. Abbreviated descriptions are as follows:

Flame Retardant Shirt – plain - 6.4 cal/cm²

Flame Retardant Shirt – with silver reflective tape - 6.4 cal/cm²

Flame Retardant Trousers – plain – 12.7 cal/cm²

Flame Retardant Trousers – with silver reflective tape – 12.7 cal/cm²

Flame Retardant Safety Vest - with silver reflective tape

Hood and Visor - Baseball Cap style, flame retardant with visor - 10 cal/cm²

Flame Retardant Switching Coat Banwear/UltraSoft Single Layer – 20 cal/cm² with Switching
Leggings Double Layer - 45 cal/cm²

Flame Retardant Switching Coat Banwear/UltraSoft Double Layer – 40 cal/cm² with Switching
Leggings Double Layer - 45 cal/cm²

Arc Protective Gloves 32.8 cal/cm2 (leather) - 45 cal/cm²

Switching Hood Double Layer – 40 cal/cm²

Insulating Gloves rated for 1000 V – (Water Corporation Procurement MMR 19898)
Notes:
1.
The design of the PPE selection is for electrical workers who are frequently working in a situation that
requires Category 1 PPE to be issued flame retardant PPE instead of cotton drill as their daily work
wear.
2.
Staff wearing flame retardant PPE may use the 20 cal/cm² switching jacket combination where Cat 3
PPE is required.
3.
Staff wearing cotton drill work wear will need to use the 40 cal/cm²switching jacket combination where
Cat 3 PPE is required.
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PAGE 22 OF 35
S022 Appendix E – Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical Workers
4.
It has been noted that the day/night reflective tape decreases the comfort level of the clothing.
Depending on their individual circumstances, staff may choose to select the plain shirt and use a flame
retardant reflective safety vest when required.
Note: Some mine sites are known to mandate that all clothing must include non-removable reflective
tape in the clothing. This may affect some employees’ choice.
8
Definitions
Term
Description
Approved
Having appropriate organisation endorsement in writing for a specific function.
Competent Person
A person who has acquired through training, qualification or experience, or a combination of those
things, the knowledge and skills required to do that thing competently.
Conductor
Any conductor forming part of an electrical apparatus, which under normal operating conditions is
live (the neutral connections of the electrical apparatus shall also be included).
De-energised
Separated from all sources of supply but not necessarily isolated, earthed, discharged or out of
commission.
Electrical Apparatus
Any electrical equipment, including overhead conductors, cables, transformers, switchgear and
electric motors, the conductors of which can be made, or are, live.
Electrical Work
Work involving the operation of switching devices, links, fuses or other connections intended for
ready removal or replacement, proving electrical conductors are de-energised, earthing and/or
short-circuiting, testing and inspecting live electrical apparatus, locking and/or tagging of electrical
apparatus and erection of barriers and/or signs.
Earthed
Where any electrical apparatus has been electrically connected to the earth mass effectively,
ensuring a low impedance, immediate, and continuous discharge path for electrical energy.
Energised
Connected to a source of electrical supply or subject to hazardous induced or capacitive voltages.
Exposed Conductor
An electrical conductor, the approach to which is not prevented by a barrier of rigid material or by
insulation that is adequate under a relevant Australian Standard specification for the voltage
concerned.
Flame Retardant
Having properties that suppress or delay the combustion or propagation of flame.
Hierarchy of Controls
The preferred order of control measures for OHS risks:

Elimination: e.g. controlling the hazard at source.

Substitution: e.g. replacing one substance or activity with a less hazardous one.

Engineering: e.g. installing guards on machinery.

Administration: e.g. policies and procedures for safe work practices.

Personal Protective Equipment: e.g. respirators, ear plugs.
High Voltage (HV)
A nominal voltage exceeding 1,000 volts (V) alternating current (A.C.) or exceeding 1,500 V direct
current (D.C.).
Isolated (electrical)
Disconnected from all possible sources of electricity supply and rendered incapable of being made
energised without premeditated and deliberate action.
Live
Energised or subject to hazardous induced or capacitive voltages.
Low Voltage (LV)
Nominal voltage exceeding 50 V A.C. or 120 V ripple free D.C. but not exceeding 1,000 V A.C. OR
1,500 V D.C.
Near
A situation where there is a reasonable possibility of a person either directly or through a
conducting medium, coming within the relevant safe approach distances.
Overhead Line
Means any aerial conductor or conductors with associated supports, insulators and other
apparatus erected, or in the course of erection, for the purpose of conveyance of electrical energy.
Safe Approach Distance
Means the minimum separation in air from an exposed conductor that shall be maintained by a
person, or any object (other than insulated objects designed for contact with live conductors) held
by or in contact with that person. These are detailed in ENA NENS 04 - 2006 National Guidelines
for Safe Approach Distances to Electrical Apparatus.
Shall
A mandatory requirement.
Should
Recommended, but not mandatory.
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S022 Appendix E – Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical Workers
9
Compliance Mapping
Task
Legislation
Personal Protective
Equipment for Electrical
Workers
Electricity Act 1945
Electricity Regulations 1947
Code of Practice: Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace
AS/NZS 1270 Acoustics – Hearing Protectors
AS/NZS 1336 Eye and Face Protection - Guidelines
AS/NZS 1337 Eye Protectors for Industrial Applications
AS 2210.1: Safety, Protective and Occupational Footwear – Guide to Selection
AS 2225 Insulating Gloves for Electrical Purposes
AS/NZS 4863 Safe working on or near low-voltage electrical installations and equipment
IEC 61482-1-1 Ed. 1.0 2009 Live Working – Protective Clothing against the Thermal Hazards of an
Electric Arc
10 References
Document Number
Title
WC-OSH 118
High Voltage Switching Practice ME-2
S022
Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing
Electrical Workwear Catalogue
Document Revision History
9 Jan 2013
New document.
13 Jan 2014
Removed clause relating to introduction of electrical PPE requirements. Transition period has ended.
28 Nov 2014
Appendix E PPE for electrical workers has been updated to make it clearer which specific electrical activities
require Insulating Gloves to be worn under Arc Protective Gloves.
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S022 Appendix F – Personal Protective
Equipment for Chemical Facilities
Appendix F Personal Protective Equipment for Chemical Facilities
11 Purpose
This appendix defines the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements for personnel entering or
approaching chemical dosing facilities.
12 Scope
This appendix applies to Water Corporation personnel and contractors that are required to work near or enter
a chemical facility where chemicals are present in tanks and/or pipework.
‘Entering’ may include entering a room containing a chemical tank, bund, and/or pipework or coming within 5
metres of:

Outdoor pipework that contains a chemical at a hazardous concentration (identified by labelling or
colour coding) and that is not is fitted with a protective shield

Uncontained chemical pipework

Decanting, mixing or pouring of chemicals from an open container

A chemical delivery that involves making or breaking connections, such as tanker deliveries.
Note: For the purpose of this document, employees shall be defined as all employees including Contract of
Service employees, Contract of Service personnel, and the personnel of the Corporation’s Alliance
Contractors in performing the services required under their respective alliance contracts.
13
Personal Protective Equipment for Chemical Facilities
The required level of PPE for entering a chemical facility shall be determined by reviewing the requirements
set out in this appendix and the PPE Selection chart. If there is a conflict between the guidance in this
appendix and the SDS for the relevant corrosive, operators shall seek guidance from a Competent Person
(Dangerous Goods Coordinator or OSH Coordinator).
The PPE requirements shall be documented as part of Safe Job Planning (in accordance with WC-OSH 007
Safe Job Planning). The use of PPE is only one of several controls that should be used to protect workers
from chemicals.
Several chemical facilities have undergone significant upgrades in terms of protective barriers (e.g. screen,
pipe wrapping and other protective barriers) that shield operators from potential exposure to chemicals.
Chemical facilities that have protective barriers in place may be exempt from some PPE provisions outlined
in this appendix provided that:

The protective screens or barriers comply with Water Corporation Design Standard DS79.3 or
provide a similar level of protection; and

The facility has been risk assessed by a Competent Person (Dangerous Goods Coordinator or an
Engineer with experience in chemicals) to ensure that the protective barriers are adequate; and

The PPE variance is captured in a PPE Variance Risk Assessment and is signed off by the asset
owner or Line Manager/ Supervisor in charge of the asset; and

The approved PPE PPE Variance Risk Assessment is Attached and communicated to personnel
entering the site through the Site Specific Induction and attached to the operations and maintenance
procedures for the asset.
Note: Refer to S022 Section 4.10.2 PPE Variance Risk Assessment for further information on PPE Variance
Risk Assessments.
13.1 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Non-Hazardous Substances
Non-hazardous substances can cause harm under certain conditions. The required level of PPE for entering
a chemical facility that contains non-hazardous substances shall be determined and documented as part of
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S022 Appendix F – Personal Protective
Equipment for Chemical Facilities
Safe Job Planning with reference to the PPE controls for the chemical noted in the SDS from the ChemAlert
system.
Examples of commonly used chemicals that are classified as non-hazardous substances used at Water
Corporation include:


Polyelectrolyte
Sodium Hexametaphosphate (Calgon)
13.2 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Hazardous Substances that are not
Corrosives
The required level of PPE for entering a chemical facility that contains hazardous substances that are not
classified as ‘corrosives’ shall be determined as part of Safe Job Planning, with reference to the PPE
controls for the chemical noted in the SDS from the ChemAlert system.
Examples of hazardous substances that are not classified as ‘corrosives’ and are used at Water Corporation
include:



Methanol
Potassium Permanganate
Sodium Fluorosilicate
13.3 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Liquid Corrosives
For chemical facilities that contain liquid corrosives (other than chlorine or ammonia gas), the minimum level
of PPE to be worn shall be determined using
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S022 Appendix F – Personal Protective
Equipment for Chemical Facilities
Table 3, which categorises PPE requirements into category A, B, C and D for the facility based on a
combination of the:

Current operational status of the facility and

Activities to be undertaken by personnel.
Factors that influence the category include:

Whether the storage tanks or pipes currently contain corrosive chemicals (e.g. not empty, or only
contain water)

Whether the dosing pump(s) is currently operating or any piping containing corrosive chemical is
under pressure.

Whether there is a suspected or confirmed leak.

The general design of the facility and dosing equipment, piping etc. (e.g. the inclusion of any
protective chemical screens).
Note: Where a chemical facility has a mixture of contained (e.g. wrapped) and uncontained pipework, the
higher PPE requirement as per Table 3 shall apply.
Note: Refer to the Liquid Corrosives PPE FAQ Sheet and Liquid Corrosive Chemical PPE Poster for more
information
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S022 Appendix F – Personal Protective Equipment for Chemical Facilities
Table 3: Chemical Facilities with Liquid Corrosives – Additional PPE Requirements
Category
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
A
B
Operational Activities
examples
Current Operational State
There are no corrosive chemicals present

within piping or associated infrastructure.

Corrosive chemicals are present within piping

or associated infrastructure, but operator entry
is to viewing room only
The facility is in operational or shut-down
state. Corrosive chemicals are present.
There is no suspected or confirmed leak.
Operator protected by barrier protection /
wrapping.
Chemical
Face Shield
PLUS Safety
Glasses or
Goggles
Chemical
resistant
Gloves
Impervious
Coveralls
Apron
PVC
Boots
Respiratory Protection1
Entry to viewing room only
New plant that has not had any chemical delivered.
Normal operational site PPE requirements apply.
Delivery and handling of sealed containers of chemical

Visual inspection, where barrier protection or wrapping
around pipe/fittings exists.

Operator activity does not involve making/breaking
connections. Operator activity can be completed while
protected by a barrier protection

Note: face shield may not be required at certain sites formally assessed as having very
reliable barrier protection or wrapping - check with asset owner if PPE Variance Risk
Assessment is in place
C
D
The facility is in operational or shut-down

state. Corrosive chemicals are present.
There is no suspected or confirmed leak.

Operator is not protected by barrier protection
or wrapping.
Visual inspection, where barrier protection is not
installed or has been temporarily removed
Operator activity does not involve making/breaking
connections. Operator activity cannot be completed
while protected by a barrier protection. (e.g. Adjust
pump, Manual valve operation, Calibration tube dosing
check )

Mechanical of pumping chemicals from open
containers. (excludes tanker deliveries)
The facility is in operational or shut-down
state. Corrosive chemicals are present.

Chemical deliveries involving making or breaking
connections (like tanker deliveries)
The reason for entering the facility could
expose the entrant(s) to chemicals, chemical
containers or process infrastructure that is
pressurised.
Accidental loss of containment or spill would
expose the entrant(s) to the chemical or
hazardous fumes.

Manual decanting (Pouring) of chemicals from open
containers.

Any activity that involves making/breaking connections

Leak identification, spill neutralization & disposal, major
spill recovery.



For Mechanical pumping check SDS
Or
Coveralls
Manual Decanting (Pouring) – Check SDS
Either SCBA1 or a full-face canister respirator
(Inorganic & acid cartridge) for:

Or Respiratory
Protection





Note: (1) Refer to 3216Appendix G for specific requirements related to the use, maintenance and wearing of SCBA and full face canister respirators.
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
Leak identification

Minor leak neutralization and disposal
ONLY SCBA1 for:
PAGE 28 OF 35
Significant leak neutralization and
disposal
Recovering the chemical from a major
leak.
S022 Appendix F – Personal Protective
Equipment for Chemical Facilities
13.3.1 Category A
Category ‘A' PPE requirements apply where:
1.
There are no corrosives currently present within piping or associated infrastructure, and
2.
There is no suspected or confirmed leak.
or
3.
There are corrosives present within piping or associated infrastructure, but entry is to the viewing room
only.
Example situations:

Hazardous substances are not present in the room (including fumes). All piping is
known to be empty or has been thoroughly flushed with water and the bund(s) and
other vessels are free of spilt chemicals


Entry is to the viewing room only
Delivery and handling of sealed containers
No additional PPE is required above minimum operational PPE requirements (Table 1).
13.3.2 Category B
Category ‘B’ PPE requirements apply where:
1.
The facility is in operational or shut-down state where corrosive chemicals are currently stored and are
present within piping or associated infrastructure, and
2.
There is no suspected or confirmed leak, and
3.
Entry is for inspection only, and will be on the protected side of a barrier (or protective wrapping over
pipes and fittings).
Example situations:
 Entry to the dosing room is for inspection purposes only, remaining on the protected side of a barrier
(with no maintenance or operational changes, such as valve operation).
Additional PPE required for this category (above minimum operational PPE requirements (Table 1) includes:

Chemical face shield, with either protective goggles or safety glasses (i.e. double eye protection)
Note: Face shield may not be required at certain sites formally assessed as having very reliable barrier
protection or wrapping - check with asset owner if PPE Variance Risk Assessment is in place
13.3.3 Category C
Category ‘C’ PPE requirements apply where:
1.
The facility is in operational or shut-down state where corrosive chemicals are currently stored and are
present within piping and/or associated infrastructure, and
2.
There is no suspected or confirmed leak, and
3.
Barrier protection is not installed or has been temporarily removed, and
4.
Entry is for inspection, or for operator activity that does not involve making/breaking connections.
Example situations:
 Entry to the dosing room is for inspection purposes only, on the unprotected side of a chemical screen
(or where no protective barrier or wrapping is fitted)

Entry to a storage room is to conduct operational changes such as adjustment of a dosing pump, or
calibration tube dosing check, for which the barrier protection has been temporarily removed.
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S022 Appendix F – Personal Protective
Equipment for Chemical Facilities

Mechanical pumping from an open container where the risk if being splashed is very low, like installing a
pump onto a hypochloric acid bulky box. In some cases the corrosive SDS may still require Respiratory
protection.
Additional PPE required for this category (above minimum operational PPE requirements (Table 1) includes:

Chemical face shield, with either protective goggles or safety glasses (i.e. double eye protection)

Chemical resistant gloves Gloves should carry the rating AKL and this pictogram:

Chemical resistant Apron or Chemical or protective coverall - choice based on preference or risk
assessment

PVC Boots can be used, based on Risk assessment findings
13.3.4 Category D
Category ‘D’ facility PPE requirements apply where:
1.
The facility is in operational or shut-down state where corrosive chemicals are currently stored and are
present within piping and/or associated infrastructure, and
2.
The reason for entering the facility could expose the entrant/s to physical contact with chemicals,
chemical containers or process infrastructure that is pressurised. Accidental loss of containment or spill
would expose the entrant/s to the chemical or hazardous fumes.
Example situations:
Entry into a storage area is for activities such as:

Manual Pouring of chemical from open containers where the risk of being splashed or inhaling fumes is
significant

Chemical delivery that involves making or breaking connections, such as tanker deliveries

Draining of dosing system, disassembly/removal of any piping or equipment that would normally contain
chemicals for maintenance

Any activity that involves making or breaking connections

Investigation of a chemical leak

Neutralization and dilution of a chemical leak

Recovering the chemical from a major leak
Additional PPE required for this category (above minimum operational PPE requirements (Table 1) includes:

Air-line respirator, SCBA or a full face canister respirator (Type B filter – inorganic & acid gas)

Chemical resistant gloves carry the rating AKL and this pictogram:

Impervious coveralls.
 PVC boots.
Note: Refer to the Corrosive Chemical PPE Selection Chart for more information on PPE
13.4 Entry to Chemical Facilities with Chlorine and Ammonia Gas
The minimum PPE requirements for chemical facilities containing chlorine or ammonia is as follows:
 Operating valves, moving containers – minimum operational site PPE (Table 1) plus abrasionresistant gloves
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S022 Appendix F – Personal Protective
Equipment for Chemical Facilities
Note: Refer to the Glove Selection Matrix for general use gloves

Making/breaking connections – minimum operational site PPE (Table 1) plus respiratory
protection (as specified by Chlorine procedures and work instructions) and nitrile gloves.

Investigating leaks – minimum operational site PPE plus Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
(SCBA).
Note: PPE requirements associated with facilities that use chlorine gas cylinders or drums are detailed in the
various Work Instructions found on the Dangerous Goods Management System website. PPE requirements
associated with Ammonia gas cylinders are similar to those for chlorine, although a different respirator
canister type shall be used. Refer to the Corrosive Chemical PPE Selection chart for more information on
canister selection
Note: For sodium hypochlorite or calcium hypochlorite facilities refer to section 13.3 Entry to Chemical
Facilities with Liquid Corrosives.
14 Definitions
Term
Description
Chemical Facilities
Operational assets where process chemical dosing takes place, and includes the associated
storage areas.
Self Contained Breathing
Apparatus (SCBA)
A self-contained system, not dependent on a remote supply of air. Includes closed circuit
‘rebreathers’ and open circuit systems, consisting of a high-pressure tank (e.g. 2,216 to 4,500 psi
(15,280 to 31,000 kPa)), a pressure regulator, and an inhalation connection (mouthpiece, mouth
mask or face mask), connected together and carried/worn by the operator.
Corrosive Liquid
A liquid defined by an SDS as having at least one of the following risk phases: R34 (Causes
Burns), R35 (Causes Severe Burns), R36 (Irritating to the eyes), R38 (Irritating to skin) or R41
(Risk of Serious Damage to Eyes).
15 Compliance Mapping
Task
Compliance
Entry to chemical facilities
Dangerous Goods Regulations - Regulation 58 (barrier protection)
Occupational Safety & Health Regulations 1996 – Part 5
16 References
Document Number
Title
Corrosive Chemical PPE Selection chart
Dangerous Goods Management System
Glove Selection Matrix for general use gloves
Liquid Corrosive Chemical PPE Poster
Liquid Corrosives PPE FAQ Sheet
WC-OSH 007
Safe Job Planning
PPE Variance Risk Assessment Form
Document Revision History
21 May 2014
Original version. Refer to MOC #9269724.
17 Jun 2014
Amendment to Table 3. Clarified the difference between Category B and C.
19 May 2015
Amended to include the provision of Chemical resistant coveralls and the introduction of double eye protection
for liquid corrosive sites where pipes and other infrastructure is not covered by reliable screens or barriers
(compliant with DS 79.3) Refer to MOC# 12038879.
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S022 Appendix G – SCBA and Canister
Respirator Use
Appendix G SCBA and Canister Respirator Use
1
Purpose
This standard defines requirements for personnel using self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or
canister respirators.
2
Scope
This standard applies to Water Corporation personnel and contractors who are required to store and/or use
self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or full face canister respirators.
3
Roles and Responsibilities
Role
Responsibility
Supervisor / Line Manager

Shall ensure that personnel who are required to use SCBA in the course of their work are
trained and competent. Shall instruct personnel as to the proper use, cleaning, maintenance,
storage and limitations of SCBA.

Shall ensure that there is a process in place for a SCBA-trained person to conduct a monthly
‘low-pressure test’ on each SCBA set within their area of responsibility.

Where required to be competent in SCBA and canister respirator use as part of their position,
shall be clean-shaven.
Employees
4
Training
Supervisors shall ensure that personnel who are required to use SCBA in the course of their work (e.g. for
the operation or maintenance of chlorine systems, or don SCBA associated with emergency response
actions) hold the following qualification (or equivalent to meet the national unit of competency
MSAPMOHS216A - Operate Breathing Apparatus).
Water Corporation training records shall be maintained in accordance with Section 6. Contractors shall be
responsible for maintaining employee training records.
Course Name
Mandatory for Roles
Description
Period of Validity
SCBA – Operate
Breathing Apparatus
Persons required to use SCBA in
connection with chlorine or other purposes.
Demonstrate an ability to operate,
use and maintain a Self-Contained
Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
This course is associated with a
national unit of competency:
MSAPMOHS216A- Operate
Breathing Apparatus
2 years
SAP #Q10010450
Supervisors shall instruct personnel who use canister respirators in the course of their work in its proper use,
cleaning, maintenance, storage and limitations.
5
Standard – SCBA and Canister Respirator Use
SCBA and Canister Respirator use for chlorine or other chemical installations shall comply with the
requirements of relevant work instructions from the Dangerous Goods Management System.
5.1 Facial Hair
Personnel who are required to be competent in SCBA and canister respirator use as part of their position,
shall be clean-shaven, such that a proper seal can be obtained between the face and face-mask - i.e.
beards, large side burns, large moustaches etc. shall not be permitted. Refer to AS1715 Selection, Use and
Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Devices for further detail.
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S022 Appendix G – SCBA and Canister
Respirator Use
5.2 Medical Assessment
Water Corporation personnel who are required to use SCBA to enter and work within confined spaces and/or
potentially hazardous atmospheres shall undergo an initial medical assessment. Confined Spaces may
include sewers, wet wells, tanks, pits, pipes and water mains. Hazardous atmospheres may include chlorine,
toxic gases and/or insufficient levels of oxygen.
For new job applicants or current employees transferring to a dissimilar job role within the Water Corporation,
the initial medical assessment will be in the form of the Pre-Placement Health Assessment (PPHA)
administered by the Human Resources Branch. The PPHA is a comprehensive assessment of fitness for
task and includes a medical review and functional capacity assessment aligned with the requirements of the
Job Task Profile for the role.
Following this initial medical certification of fitness, ongoing medical certification of fitness is undertaken (as
required) when employees complete the SCBA – Operate Breathing Apparatus training course. The
Trainer Provider coordinates the completion of the following forms:

Employee Self-Assessment - completed by the employee at the start of the training course.

Trainer’s observations - completed by the trainer after practical demonstration.
Completed forms are retained by the Training Provider. If either form indicates a requirement for further
medical certification of fitness, the trainer conveys this information to the relevant Water Corporation Line
Manager who will then arrange for the employee to be reviewed by their treating GP using the Medical
Certification of Fitness - SCBA form. The completed form shall be retained in accordance with Section 6.
Contractors shall have a process in place to ensure that personnel are fit to undertake work using SCBA.
5.3 Replacement and Disposal of Canisters
Personnel shall use a permanent marker to date and initial new canisters upon fitting. Canisters which have
been subjected to notable chemical exposure, or which have been in use for three (3) months, shall be
replaced (canister filters discarded).
5.4 SCBA Cylinder Refill
Following use, any SCBA compressed air cylinder with less than nominally 25 minutes supply of breathing
air shall be re-filled.
Note: AS1715 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Devices requires bottles to be
recharged before their contents have dropped below 80% of full working pressure. As bottles larger than 30
minutes are now in use (e.g. 45 minute sets) the Department of Mines and Petroleum have agreed that air
supply time is the critical issue rather than the percentage filled.
5.5 SCBA Low Pressure Test (audible alarm)
Line Managers of personnel who use SCBA sets shall ensure that there is a process in place for a SCBAtrained person to conduct a monthly ‘low-pressure test’ on each SCBA set. Additionally, prior to each use,
personnel issued with an SCBA set shall conduct their own ‘low pressure test’ having assembled the set and
prior to donning.
5.6 SCBA Maintenance and Inspection
SCBA sets shall be inspected and serviced annually in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations
and a record kept by the service provider. Water Corporation maintenance records shall be kept in
accordance with Section 6.
Face masks shall be cleaned prior to and after each use by use of sanitising wipes or cleansing solution.
5.7 Fit Checking / Testing of Facemasks
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S022 Appendix G – SCBA and Canister
Respirator Use
As part of SCBA training, the appropriate size and fit of the SCBA for the employee is determined (fit check).
Line Managers shall ensure that personnel are provided with appropriately sized facemasks.
All negative pressure respirators (including disposable masks, half-face mask and full face masks) shall be fit
tested in accordance with WC-OSH 212 Occupational Hygiene.
Contractors shall have a process to ‘fit check’ or ‘fit test’ facemasks (as appropriate) in accordance with
AS/NZS 1715.
5.8 Storage of SCBA and Canister Respirators
SCBA and canister respirators shall be stored in accordance with the manufactures’ recommendations so as
to avoid unnecessary degradation.
5.9 Speech Diaphragms
All SCBAs and canister respirators shall be equipped with speech diaphragms, in order to allow
communication between personnel whilst respiratory protection is being worn.
6
Records
Records shall be filed in accordance with the Water Corporation Records Retention and Disposal Schedule,
with the filing convention, retention period and disposition type outlined below:
Record
To be retained by
Filing convention
Retained for
(time period)
Disposition Type
Medical Certification of
Fitness – SCBA form
Human Resources
HUMAN RESOURCES Personal
Interim 3 years
after last action
Destroy File after
56 years
SCBA service records
Section manager of the
work area
SUPPLY AND
SUPPLIERS Maintenance
2 years after last
action
Destroy 7 years
after last action
Training and Competency
records
SAP
n/a
n/a
n/a
Branch Manager
STAFF DEVELOPMENT
- Training
2 years after last
action
Destroy 7 years
after last action
7
Definitions
Term
Description
Canister respirator
Consists of a replaceable filter canister which screws into a full-face or half- face mask.
Facial Fit Check
A simple check to ensure the respirator fits each time it is worn.
Facial Fit Test
A validated method of matching a respirator to an individual.
Self-Contained Breathing
Apparatus (SCBA)
A self-contained system, not dependent on a remote supply of air. Includes closed circuit
‘rebreathers’ and open circuit systems, consisting of a high-pressure tank (e.g. 2,216 to 4,500 psi
(15,280 to 31,000 kPa)), a pressure regulator, and an inhalation connection (mouthpiece, mouth
mask or face mask), connected together and carried/worn by the operator..
8
References
Document Number
Title
Dangerous Goods Management System.
Employee Self-Assessment
Medical Certification of Fitness - SCBA Form
WC-OSH 212
Occupational Hygiene
Trainer’s observations
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S022 Appendix G – SCBA and Canister
Respirator Use
9
Compliance Mapping
Task
Compliance
Personal Protective
Equipment and Clothing
AS/NZS 1715 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Devices
AS/NZS 1716 Respiratory Protective Devices
Document Revision History
9 May 2014
Original version. Refer to MOC #9269724.
21 May 2014
Correction to ‘Medical Assessment’ requirements. Refer to MOC #10861517.
11 Feb 2015
Clarification on SCBA medical assessment requirements and fit test/ fit check processes. Refer to MOC
10858000
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