STUDENT ASSESSMENT GUIDE
Unit of competency name
Apply OHS Processes
Unit of competency number
BSBOHS201A
Unit Purpose
In this unit you will develop the knowledge and skills required to participate in workplace occupational health
and safety (OHS) processes to protect workers own health and safety, and that of others.
Specifically you should be able to:




Work safely
Implement workplace safety requirements
Participate in OHS consultative processes
Follow safety procedures
Reporting of assessment outcomes
Your result will be recorded and reported to you as Competent or Not yet Competent.
Requirements to successfully complete this unit of competency
To demonstrate competence in this unit you will need to provide evidence of the following:



accurately following all relevant safety procedures
identifying and reporting hazards to designated personnel
knowledge of relevant health and safety legislation.
Your teacher will advise you of the assessment requirements for this unit. You may be required to complete a
range of practical activities and provide answers to a series of questions, for example.
Assessment
To demonstrate competence in this unit you need to
1) Complete the Work Booklet
2) Complete the Assessment
1
Participate in OHS Processes
Workbook and Activities
Contents
Page Number
Unit Outline
2
Introduction to Occupational Health and Safety Issues
3
Occupational Health and Safety Laws.
7
Occupational Health and Safety Representatives and Committees
11
Warning Signs and Symbols
13
Identifying Hazards
15
Risk Assessment and Control
17
Young People and Injury at Work
19
Workstation and Ergonomics
21
Occupational Overuse Syndrome
24
Office Environment Hazards and Manual Handling
27
Workplace Hazards
29
Social and Psychological Hazards
32
Assessment
33
2
Participate in Workplace Safety and Procedures
This unit covers general Occupational Health and Safety requirements in business organisations and is essential
for employees without managerial or supervisory responsibilities.
Critical aspects of evidence


Hazards are recognised and reported to designated personnel
 All relevant workplace procedures are accurately followed
 Hazards and risks in the workplace are communicated
Contribution is made to the management of Occupational Health and Safety of the workplace at level
of own responsibility
3
Introduction to Occupational Health and Safety Issues
Workers didn’t always have the right to a safe workplace. The campaign for better working conditions by
workers, unions and governments has changed attitudes toward the role of the worker and the high cost of
preventable industrial accidents.
Effective occupational health and safety in the workplace requires the attention of everyone, not just
management. According to workers compensation statistics produced by Workcover NSW in 1999/00 the new
laws and a heightened awareness has resulted in employment injuries falling at a rate of 3.3% each year for the
last five years.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility
The cost of workplace injuries is enormous to our society through compensation monies and lost production
time.
It is important for you to understand that when you become a member of the workforce either through a
casual or part time position or as part of your work placement that your employer has a responsibility towards
you, and that you have responsibilities towards them.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and the supporting Occupational Health and Safety Regulations
2001 outline both the employers and employees responsibilities. Work Cover is the governing body that
ensures that the regulation and act are upheld in the workforce.
Every year, thousands of Australians are injured at work.
Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) is focused on preventing accidents, injuries and illness in the
workplace.
In Australian workplaces, workers are exposed to a range of potentially hazardous environments and
situations. In Australian workplaces in 2005.
• 500 workers died from injuries
• 2200 died from work related disease
• One in twelve workers had an accident!
*** This module is a guide to OH&S will assist you to build the knowledge and skills you need to remain safe
from workplace injury through applying OH&S principles in your work. ***
Occupational Health & Safety Authorities
There are Ten OHS authorities in Australia.
WorkSafe Australia and your state/territory OHS authority can provide advice about how to create a safe and
healthy work environment. The Ten authorities come under two categories as listed below.
National
WorkSafe Australian
National Occupational Health and Safety Commission,
(NOHSC)
Sate/Territory
ACT WorkCover
WorkCover Authority of NSW
Victorian WorkCover Authority
Workplace Health and Safety QLD
WorkSafe Western Australia
Work Health Authority Northern Territory
Workplace Standards Authority Tasmania
WorkCover Corporation South Australia
4
Occupational Health & Safety Laws
The NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000
Laws that protect the occupational health and safety of workers are relatively new. NSW was one of the first
states to develop performance based legislation. This legislation was first produced in 1983 and in 2000 was
reviewed and a new Act was implemented. The Act is now known as the NSW Occupational Health and Safety
Act of 2000 The Act was developed through the cooperation of government. employers and unions.
The main feature of the Act is that it encourages both employers and employees to deal with workplace health
and safety issues through a consultation process using OH&S committees and representatives.
All states and territories have legislation covering OH&S. These may vary slightly from state to state but they all
follow the same basic principles.
 Ensure the health, safety and welfare of employees
 Protect other people at the workplace, such as visitors. subcontractors and customers
 Promote a working environment for employees which is adapted to their physical and psychological
needs.
 Provide a simpler framework for protection of employees which uses Codes of Practice, Standards and
Joint Consultation to improve work place health and safety.
 review all other associated OH&S legislation so that it may be progressively updated and included in
the OH&S Act.
Occupational Health and Safety Issues
Question 1
Go to http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au Click on Browse Click on “O” under Acts
Click on Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 No 40 Click on Objects
List the objects of this act.
a) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
b) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
c) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
d) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
e) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
f)
____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
g) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
h) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
5
Question 2
State the responsibilities of employers under the NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Safety Act, (see Section 8)
a) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
b) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
c) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
d) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
e) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Question 3
State 2 responsibilities of Employees under the Act, (see section 20)
a) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
b) ____________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Question 4
True or False
Statement
In Australian workplaces in 2005 5000 workers died from injuries
Work Cover is the legislative body that ensures that the regulation and act are upheld in
the workforce.
Effective occupational health and safety in the workplace requires the attention of
everyone, not just management
Workers didn’t always have the right to a safe workplace.
Question 5
Complete the Table with the Ten OHS authorities in Australia.
National
State/Territory
6
True or False
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations
The NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act of 2000 is supported by the Occupation Health and Safety
Regulation 2001 . These regulations deal with specific issues in greater detail than the Act. eg Issues relating
to first aid and manual handling. Both the Act and the Regulations are enforced by law and workplaces not
meeting the standards required can be heavily fined. They have been created to clearly define the rights and
responsibilities of both the employer and employee.
Legislation
By law, employers, employees and contractors have important obligations in terms of health and safety. These
obligations are outlined in legislation (law).
There are many different types of legislation, as shown in the pyramid below. Health and safety legislation in
Australian states is generally in the form of an Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Within the Act are specific Regulations that refer to Codes of Practice. Some Regulations and Codes of Practices
refer to specific Standards.
Not all of these elements are enforceable at law, but each has an important role in informing employers,
employees and other stakeholders about their legislative responsibilities and helping them to meet their legal
obligations.
Acts
The Occupational Health and Safety Acts of the various states set out the legal obligations of employers,
employees and self-employed people as well as those who manufacture substances and build or occupy a
premises.
The Acts set out general duties of care and refer to Regulations and Codes of Practice.
The Acts provide a compulsory (mandatory) requirement for employer and employee involvement in improving
and implementing health and safety standards.
Regulations
Regulations under the occupational health and safety Acts refer to specific areas of occupational health and
safety including manual handling, asbestos and noise.
The aim of Regulations is to protect people at work against the hazards and risks associated with specific
activities. While the Acts set out general duties of care for the range of stakeholders in occupational health and
safety, the Regulations set out specific duties.
Regulations must be complied with. Section 47(1) of the Occupational Health & Safety Act (1985) states that
failure to comply with Regulations made under the Act is an offence.
7
Codes of Practice
Codes of Practice have been developed to provide guidance in implementing relevant Regulations. For
example, the Code of Practice - Manual Handling (2000) provides practical guidelines for meeting requirements
of the Manual Handling Regulations (1999).
Unlike Regulations, Codes of Practice are not mandatory. Section 55(8) of the Occupational Health & Act (1985)
states that failure to observe a provision of an approved Code of Practice is not in itself a breach of the Act. A
person or company may choose to comply with the Regulations in some other way as long as that method also
fulfils the requirements of the Regulations.
However, in practice, there is generally a heavy reliance on complying with these Codes as they are often used
in court as evidence. Failure to follow an approved Code of Practice can be used as evidence of non-compliance
with provisions of the Act or Regulations.
Standards
Standards may developed by any organisation. They are not mandatory, however should be used as a
minimum guide. Some organisations set out minimum standards that are recognised by the community as
being acceptable and these form minimum requirements.
The two organisations in Australia that set community accepted standards for occupational health and safety
are the Standards Association of Australia and the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission
(WorkSafe Australia).
These standards are sometimes referred to in state occupational health and safety legislation.
Question 6
What is the difference between the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Occupational Health and Safety
Regulations?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
Question 7
Why were the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations been created?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
Question 8
Go to http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au
Go to Law & Policy - Regulations
a) What is a Regulation?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
b) List the 10 Regulations that Work Cover Regulate?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
8
Question 9
Go to http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au
Go to Law & Policy – Regulations
Go to Summary of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
a) Complete the Table in regards to Penalty levels
Level
Units
1
2
3
4
b) How much does one penalty unit equal? _________________
c) How much would a company have to pay if they were issued with a level 3 penalty?
_________________ _________________
Question 11
Why have Codes of Practice been developed?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
Question 12
Are Codes of Practices mandatory?
_________________________________________________________________________________
Question 13
Go to http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au
Go to Law & Policy – Codes of Practice
Go to Codes of practice - Workplaces list
a) How many Codes of Practice – Workplaces are there in the list?
_________________________________________________________________________________
b) Click on Code of Practice for OHS Consultation (PDF format - 314Kb)
Cat.No. 311. Gazetted, 7 September, 2001.
Define the Occupational Health and Safety Consultation Code of Practice
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
Question 14
Click on http://www.standards.org.au/
Go to Standards – What is a standard
What is a Standard?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
9
Occupational Health and Safety Representatives and Committees
It is the responsibility of all employees, including you, to contribute to health and safety in your workplace by;
 Recognising hazards and potential risks.
 Reporting hazards and potential risks to the appropriate person.
 Preventing hazards and potential risks by following your OHS policies and procedures.
You can become involved by being elected as an OHS representative or by joining a
health and safety committee.
Small businesses usually have one person who acts as a representative for the
company.
Large businesses may have a committee made up of employees and employers from
representing the sectors of the business.
Each state and territory has guidelines about how to set up committees.
WorkCover Authority of NSW recommends that committees have eight members who are selected to
represent everyone in the company. They suggest that the committee should try to include;
Both Males and Females, Different Cultures, Each Shift, Each Department or Section, Different Trades, Skills
and Work Activities, Different areas of Hazard Exposure
Such committees meet regularly to discuss health and safety issues, making sure that there is cooperation and
understanding between the employer and the employees.
You can speak to your OHS representative when you are concerned about anything which may affect the
health and safety of you or others in the workplace.
First Aid
Your company is required by law to provide first aid to all employees. This usually includes a first aid kit or
cupboard, a first aid officer and possibly a first aid room.
First Aid Kits
First aid kits must be accessible in case of an accident. They must be located within 100m of your work area.
First aid kits usually contain the basic items such as bandages, band-aids, tweezers, eye wash, antiseptic cream
and swabs. It should be checked regularly to ensure it is complete and all products are within there use-by
date.
First Aid Officer
In large companies there may be more than one first aid officer and possibly a first aid room and nurse. In small
companies the first aid officer may also be the OHS representative.
Emergencies
Emergencies are rare, however it is extremely important to know what to do in case of fire, an accident, a
bomb threat or threatening behaviour from another person.
Practising emergency drills is a useful way to check that everyone understands what they are supposed to do.
10
Occupational Health and Safety Representatives and Committees
Question 1
List three responsibilities of all employees, including you, to contribute to health and safety in your
workplace by
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Question 2
How can you become involved in OHS?
___________________________________________________________________________________
Question 3
List the recommendations that Work Cover Authority of NSW suggests how committees should be made up.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Question 4
Who can you speak to when you are concerned about anything which may affect the health and safety of
you or others in the workplace?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 5
Complete the table to do with First Aid
Name
Description
Your company is required by law to provide first aid to all employees. This usually
includes a first aid kit or cupboard, a first aid officer and possibly a first aid room.
First Aid Officer
Emergencies
First aid kits must be accessible in case of an accident. They must be located within
100m of your work area. First aid kits usually contain the basic items such as
bandages, band-aids, tweezers, eye wash, antiseptic cream and swabs. It should be
checked regularly to ensure it is complete and all products are within there use-by
date.
11
Warning Signs and Symbols
Standard safety signs are used in companies to:
 Communicate information about hazards
 Inform people of the need to use personal protective equipment (PPE)
 Help people in an emergency
Following are symbols common to most workplaces.
Stop signs
Signs which indicate that you must not do something.
These signs have a circle with a white background and red borders and
cross bar with a black symbol.
Caution signs
Signs which warn you of a danger to your health or safety.
These signs have a triangle with a yellow background with black border and black symbol.
Emergency information signs
These signs are rectangular with a green background and white symbol.
Mandatory signs
These signs indicate What you must do.
They have a circle with a blue background and white symbol.
12
Warning Signs and Symbols
Question 1
In the space provided draw the following signs.
Description
Drawing
A sign telling workers they are not to enter.
A sign telling you to beware of the wet floor.
A sign giving you emergency information.
A sign telling you that you must wear a mask.
Question 2
List three reasons why safety signs are used in companies.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
13
Identifying Hazards
A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause injury or harm.
There are two parts to Hazard Identification
1) Identify the types of possible injuries or illness involved, (eg strained wrist muscles from repetitive
computer data entry tasks or tripping on boxes left in the walkway).
2) Identify the situations or events that could give rise to the injuries or illness, (eg a badly designed
workstation, poor lighting, long periods of work without a break).
Hazards in a workplace can arise from a number of sources including:
 Poor workplace design
 Hazardous tasks being performed in the workplace
 Poorly designed plant being introduced into the workplace
 People being exposed to hazardous substances, processes or environment
 Incorrect installation, commissioning, use, inspection, maintenance, service, repair or alteration of
plant in the workplace
People undertaking hazard identification should have the necessary training to look for:
Mechanical hazards
Non-mechanical hazards
"drawing in" points
ergonomic hazards
engulfment
shearing points
manual handling
biological hazards
impact and crushing areas
electrical shocks and burns
slipping, tripping and falling hazards
cutting areas
chemical burns, toxicity,
falling objects
entanglement areas
flammability
high pressure fluid
stabbing points
noise
high temperature objects
vibration
working in very hot or cold conditions
radiation
suffocation
mist, dust, fumes
Classification of Hazards The six major types of hazard are:
1. Physical
2. Psychological
noise
shift work
vibration
workload
lighting
dealing with the public harassment
electrical
discrimination
heat
threat of danger
cold
low level constant noise
nuisance dust
machine guarding working space
4. Chemical
5. Ergonomic
gases
tool design
dusts
equipment design
Fumes
job/task design
vapours liquid
workstation design
manual handling.
14
3. Biological
infections
bacteria
viruses
6. Radiation
microwaves (infra-red,)
ultra-violet
lasers (non-ionising)
gamma rays (ionising)
Identifying Hazards
Question 1
What is the definition of a Hazard?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 2
List the two parts to Hazard Identification.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 3
List the examples of sources that hazards in a workplace can arise from.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 4
Match the Hazards with the correct labeled column.
Hazards
Acid, Too long in freezer, Fatigue, Desk to high for operator, Gamma Rays, Excessive Overtime Bacteria,
Removing asbestos walls, Incorrect tools for the job, Noisy machinery, Micro-waves,
Chemical
Physical
Psychological
Ergonomic
15
Radiation
Biological
Risk Assessment
A risk it the likelihood of injury or illness arising from exposure to any hazards.
Once the hazards have been identified, they should be listed for a risk assessment to be carried out in
consultation with the relevant health and safety representatives and employees.
The purpose of risk assessment is to determine whether there is any likelihood of injury, illness or disease
associated with each of the potentially hazardous situations identified in the hazard identification process If the
likelihood that anyone will be exposed to a situation under all possible scenarios is nil, then there is no risk and
no additional risk control measures are required.
There are 3 easy steps to reducing risks
1. Find the problem. (Identify)
Be observant and responsible in your workplace and identify any potential hazards. Report them to the OH&S
committee or your supervisor.
2. Check it out (Assess)
Assess how the hazard can hurt someone and how badly they may get hurt. The greater the potential the
greater the urgency to fix the problem
3. Fix it (Control)
If you are able to fix the problem yourself then do so immediately; (eg cleaning up a spill and putting up a
‘beware’ sign). If not then you should inform your supervisor so they can decide the best way to control the
problem
Risk Control
Risk control is taking action to control the risks in the workplace.
 Under the OHS legislation, companies are required to introduce new control measures to eliminate the
risk, or if that is not practicable, to reduce the risk so far as is practicable, if the current measures are found to
be inadequate and there is a likelihood that injury, illness or disease will result from a particular situation.
Once you have reported risks to the relevant person, a risk-control process should take place.
This may involve;
 Removing the hazard from the workplace
 Substituting the plant or substance with another one that is less hazardous
 Using engineering controls (eg modifying the design of the workplace or plant, or environmental
conditions)
 Isolating people from the source of exposure
 Changing the objects used in the task involving manual handling
 Using mechanical aids for manual handling tasks
Once the new risk control measures are in place, you need to make sure that they are maintained. Consult with
the relevant employees to identify whether there are new hazards requiring attention. If there are, then repeat
the hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control processes.
You can contribute to the risk control process by making sure that you are aware of the hazards and risks in
your workplace and that you report hazards and risks to the relevant person.
16
Risk Assessment
Question 1
What is the definition of a Risk?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 2
What is the purpose of a risk assessment?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Question 3
List the three steps to reducing risk.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Risk Control
Question 1
What is the definition of Risk Control?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 2
What are companies are required to introduce under the OHS legislation?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 3
True or False
a) Removing the hazard from the workplace
b) Substituting the plant or substance with another one that is the same but a different brand
c) Allowing people to continue working near the source of exposure
d) Changing the objects used in the task involving manual handling
e) Using mechanical aids for manual handling tasks
f) Using engineering controls (eg modifying the design of the workplace or plant, or environmental
conditions)
Question 4
How can you contribute to the risk control process?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
17
Young People and Injury at Work
Young people have a greater chance of getting hurt at work than do older workers - about a 75% chance.
This is not because young workers are more careless (although some may be!). But young workers do not have
experience of the hazards that more experienced workers know about and also often take time to adjust to
their new role as a worker who must take responsibility for their own safety.
A simple rule of thumb in any work situation is never to take anything for granted - what at first may seem
harmless could turn out to be dangerous and what seems like simple fun could become life-threatening.
Another point to always remember is that you are not alone, that there are people who can help and that you
should never have to do something that you think could be dangerous or unhealthy. You cannot be bullied into
doing something or fired for not doing it. People at work must look after one another and not cause anyone
else to have an accident. Workers can be fined for putting other people's health and safety at risk.
Remember:
 There are laws in NSW which mean that the boss must make sure that the work is done safely.
 Unsafe workplaces are against the law
 You cannot be fired for complaining about a safety issue
 You should be given training in safe work procedures, the use and operation of equipment and the
handling of hazardous materials
 You must work in a safe way and co-operate with your boss and follow established health and safety
rules.
A good way to find out if a situation is dangerous is to first look for any potential hazards. If you find any then
investigate them further and then try and get the hazards fixed
Young People and Injury at Work
Question 1
Can you be fired for complaining about safety issues? __________________________________
Question 2
Why do young people have a much greater risk of getting hurt at work?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 3
What can happen to a person they put your health at risk?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 4
True or False
a) There are laws in NSW which mean that the boss must make sure that the work is done safely.
b) Unsafe workplaces are against the law
c) People at work must look after one another and not cause anyone else to have an accident.
d) A good way to find out if a situation is dangerous is to first look for any doorways
e) You can be fired for complaining about a safety issue
f) You should never be given training in safe work procedures, the use and operation of equipment and
the handling of hazardous materials
18
Question 5
Go to the following website
http://www.worksafe.wa.gov.au > Click on Safety Topics > Click on New and Young Workers
Click on At what age are workers considered young people?, (under Frequently Asked Questions)
Answer the following questions
a) At what age are workers considered young people?
___________________________________________________________________________________
b) Why is it important to consider children and young people in workplaces?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Your Workstation
Workstations should be designed around the people who use them, the tasks they perform and the types of
equipment that they use.
A workstation may include a desk, chair, drawers, filing cabinet, document holders and shelves. The needs of a
manager might include a large area with a space for a desk, 2 chairs, shelves and filing cabinets where as a
data entry clerk might require an adjustable chair, height adjustable desk and document holders.
The hazards to look for in your workstation design are
 Adjustability; is the workstation flexible and large enough for the work to carry out their duties
efficiently, comfortably and safely?

Posture and movements; does the workstation place the worker in the best position to carry out their
daily tasks?
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the study of work, its environment and conditions in order to achieve maximum efficiency. It is
also the design of work in relation to individual people and their physical and technological environment.
Ergonomic studies have revealed one major fact – there is no average person! Everyone is different ant the
physical work environment has to accommodate these differences. Modern office equipment and furniture is
now been made with adjustable settings in order to accommodate individual differences.
Ergonomics in office work relate to;
* Software Design * Equipment * Posture * Layout * Noise * Lighting * Work Organisation
Software Design
Badly designed software can be hazardous if it does not meet the needs of the user. Well designed software
combines mouse and keyboard commands to reduce strain on your hands and arms.
19
Equipment and Posture
It is important that the equipment you use is adjusted to suit your body shape and size and tasks that you are
doing. Computer screens and monitor’s height and viewing angles can be adjusted to suit the user.
Chairs designed to ergonomic principles provide proper support for the user and their height and angles can be
adjusted.
Other office equipment that can improve your posture include;
 Document holders
 Angle boards or inclined supports for reading
 Adjustable footrests.
Desktop
Everything on your desktop including equipment and resources should be arranged within easy reach. Your
desk can be arranged into three areas;
1) The optimum reach sector – the area close to you where your hands operate most of the time.
2) The maximum reach sector – further away but still easy to reach.
3) The outer reach sector – where you may have to stand to reach items.
Make sure that you arrange your desk with;
1) Frequently used objects such as the keyboard close to you.
2) Intermittently used objects such as the phone out of the way but within easy reach.
3) Less frequently used resources such as trays in the outer reach zone.
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Ergonomics
Question 1
What is ergonomics the study of?
___________________________________________________________________________________
Question 2
Complete the diagram
21
Desktop
Question 1
List the 3 sectors of reach
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 2
How should you arrange your desk?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Occupational Overuse Syndrome
Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS) is also called Repetitive Strain Syndrome, (RSI). It is the name used to
describe a number of conditions that result in pain and discomfort in your muscles and tendons. OOS is caused
by tasks that involve repetitive movements, poor posture or forceful movements. It can occur in the office
environment when you repetitiously and/or for long periods of time;
 Use a keyboard
 Look at a computer screen or other surfaces
 Fold large quantities of paper
 Concentrate hard on a particular task
 Engage in heavy work loads
You can design your job and tasks to reduce the risk of OOS by taking regular breaks and sufficient variety of
tasks. You can also arrange your equipment to allow you to work comfortably. It is also a good idea to stretch
now and then.
Radiation from the Screen/Monitor
Screens and monitors emit low levels of electromagnetic radiation, just like many household appliances. The
best protection from the electromagnetic radiation is your screen as most of the radiation is emitted from the
back of the machine. If you are located at the back of a screen or monitor you should suggest that the
workstation is rearranged. Generally you should be seated at least 50cm away from a screen/monitor.
Setting up your Workstation
Overview
Good ergonomic practice is important to get the most from your personal computer and to avoid discomfort.
This means that the equipment and the workplace should be arranged to suit your individual needs and the
kind of work that you do. We have compiled ergonomic guidelines to help you minimize physical discomfort
that may accompany prolonged static postures and repetitive motions.
Chair
The chair is one of the most important items in your workplace. It can encourage good posture and circulation
and so help you to avoid discomfort. Select a chair that is comfortable for you; it should be adjustable and
provide good back support. You should adjust your chair so that:



Your thighs are horizontal and there is support for your lower back.
If your chair has insufficient adjustment, lower back support may be improved with a cushion.
Your feet rest flat on the floor when you are seated and using your keyboard. If you cannot do this,
your chair is probably too high and you should use a footrest. You should change your sitting position
occasionally during the work day. Sitting in a fixed position for too long can induce discomfort.
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Telephone
You should be able to reach the phone without severe stretching or standing up. A good place to have your
telephone is in the optimum reach sector. If you use the phone for long periods of time you mey require a
headset.
Keyboard and mouse
Comfortable use depends on keyboard height, arm position and touch. You are seated correctly if:






The keyboard is positioned so that your arms are relaxed and comfortable, and your forearms are
roughly horizontal.
Your shoulders are in a relaxed position, not hunched up.
Your wrists should be extended straight, not bent up or down uncomfortably.
If you use a wrist/palm rest, it should NOT be used while actually keying but in between periods of
keying.
Your hands should glide over the keys. Hands remaining in a fixed position cause fingers to over-reach
for the keys. Use a light touch
for keying, keeping your hands and fingers relaxed.
Place the mouse close to the keyboard so that you can use it without stretching or leaning over to one
side.
Display
Most displays feature a variety of adjustments which enable you to set up your equipment in a way most
comfortable to you:









Make sure that you position the screen to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights,
windows and other sources.
It may be helpful to put an anti-glare filter on the front of the screen when it is impossible to avoid
reflections or adjust lighting.
Adjust the display so that the top of the screen is slightly below eye level for comfortable viewing.
Position yourself and the display to achieve and maintain a comfortable viewing distance, usually about
20 to 24 inches (50 to 60 cm).
Keep your head in a comfortable but upright position.
Set the contrast and brightness of the screen at a comfortable level.
As the light in the room changes, adjust the contrast and brightness, if necessary.
Clean your screen, anti-glare filter and eyeglasses on a regular basis.
Consult your vision care specialist if you experience eye fatigue or discomfort.
Workplace organization
The way you organize the elements of your workplace to fit your individual needs is probably the most
important consideration in working comfortably. You can save time and effort throughout the work day by
taking a few minutes to think about the best position for your equipment and the most effective use of your
space.
Make sure that you:



Have sufficient desk area which allows you to position your keyboard, mouse, display, document
holder and other items (such as a telephone) in the way that works best for you.
Organize your desk to reflect the way you use work materials and equipment. Place the things that you
use most regularly, such as a mouse or telephone, within the easiest reach.
Vary your tasks and take periodic breaks. This helps to reduce the possibility of discomfort or fatigue.
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Occupational Overuse Syndrome
Question 1
What is OOS?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Question 2
List 5 different activities that can cause OOS
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Radiation from the Screen/Monitor
Statement
Screens and monitors emit low levels of electromagnetic radiation, just like many household
appliances.
The best protection from the electromagnetic radiation is your keyboard.
If you are located at the back of a screen or monitor you should suggest that the workstation
is rearranged. Generally you should be seated at least 50cm away from a screen/monitor.
True or False
Office Environment Hazards
A well deigned office enables people enough space to work comfortably, effectively and safely. A typical office
layout may include workstations, meeting rooms, reception areas, corridors, storage and kitchen areas.
The more hazards you know about the easier it is to avoid them.
Various hazards include;
 Floor Surfaces
 Location of office equipment
 Filing Cabinets
 Storage Systems
 Machines including printers, faxes, phones etc
 Equipment such as staplers, letter openers, hole punches, guillotines etc
 Noise, air and light
Manual handling
Manual handling is not only lifting objects but also includes any activity that requires you to use force to lower,
push, or stop a person or thing
Manual handling injuries include:
 Strains and sprains;
 Neck and back injuries;
 Slips, falls and crush incidents;
 Cuts, bruises and broken bones
 Hernia; and
 Occupational overuse syndrome (OOS), once known as RSI (repetitive strain injury).
Manual handling of heavy and awkward objects is still responsible for one of the largest causes of workplace
injury and time loss in NSW. People who suffer from a manual handling injury at work may be permanently
injured and have to spend the rest of their lives with limited abilities and in pain.
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Part of the responsibility of the employer should be to inform and trained you in:
 Safe manual handling methods;
 Specific manual handling hazards;
 Safe work procedures;
 Using manual handling aids; and
 The right to ask for help.
Office Environment Hazards
Question 1
List the 7 types of hazards found in the office
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Manual handling
Question 1
List 6 types of manual handling injuries
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
Question 2
State if the following pictures display correct or incorrect manual handling techniques.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
Picture 4
Picture 5
Picture 6
Picture 7
Picture 8
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Workplace Hazards
Slips, trips and falls
Slips, trips and falls are common accidents in the retail workplace and they often lead to serious injury.
WorkCover NSW indicates that one in every five injuries are related to slips trips or falls and this costs on
average $12,000 per person and 10 weeks off work. This is a huge cost for the person involved and the
business.
A slip or fall can cause injury to the arms, legs, back, neck or head. Neck and head injuries can cause damage to
the spinal cord and nervous system. Many employees have suffered permanent disabling injuries or death as a
result of a fall.
Slippery surfaces in the retail industry can be found in places such as cool rooms, freezers, deli areas, meat
rooms, bakery areas, food preparation areas, storage areas and any area where moist products and liquids are
likely to be spilled.
Fatigue
The effects of fatigue are often overlooked in the workplace. It can however cause serious accidents if care is
not taken.
Often in the retail industry you may have to stand up for long periods of time. This may cause discomfort and
back pain in particular and may be made worse. There are some things you and your employer can do to
reduce fatigue.
 Your employer could provide a stool or "standing chair" and vary your tasks so that you do not have to
stand for long periods of time.
 You should wear low heeled, comfortable, covered shoes to help reduce fatigue.
 It is important to take regular rest breaks.
 Your employer should allocate time for rest breaks and to vary tasks throughout the day, and also
enough time for you to gradually get used to a new job.
 Talk to your employer or supervisor if a stool is not provided or you have difficulty in trying to handle
too many demands at once.
Emergency Exits
In the event of a fire or other emergency you workplace will have an alarm of some kind. You need to be aware
of what the different alarms mean. It is also essential that you are aware of your workplace’s emergency
procedures and escapes. Failure to ensure this knowledge could result in not only harming yourself but others.
There are some basic rules for emergency exits that should also be observed.
Never block fire escapes by storing materials in the exits or exit passages.
Never lock fire escapes during working hours.
Workplaces have organised emergency procedures that their staff should be aware of and practice. In retail
establishments not only the staff need to be considered but also the safe movement of their customers in the
event of an emergency.
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Chemical Hazards
Photocopiers
Some of the hazards of photocopiers include:




ozone emissions;
toner dust;
light;
heat and noise; and
Photocopiers need to be located in well ventilated
rooms or work areas, and
be properly maintained in order to
reduce the hazards of emissions,
heat, noise, and toner dust.
discomfort and strain to those using them for long
periods of time
Always follow the manufacturer's directions when using a photocopier and do not operate it with the lid open
to avoid exposure to bright light emissions.
If copying and collating large quantities, a comfortable working height and careful arrangement of work space
are necessary, as well as alternating of photocopying and collating tasks with other non-repetitive tasks. This
will reduce the likelihood of discomfort and strain.
Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is essential not only where photocopiers are located, but throughout the office
environment to provide fresh air. The use of synthetic materials in the construction and furnishing of buildings,
emissions from equipment, and sealed buildings with refrigerated air conditioning contribute to work place
hazards associated with ventilation.
Biological Hazards
Biological agents are found in many sectors of employment. They are rarely visible and so workers are not
always able to appreciate the risks they pose. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi (yeasts and moulds) and
parasites.
Bullying and Violence
'Bullying and occupational violence are issues that must be seriously addressed by businesses, the workforce
and the community. Employers need to assess the risk, ensure control measures are in place and join with the
workforce to ensure it does not become a problem.' (From WorkSafe Victoria's 'Prevention of Bullying and
Violence at Work' Guidance Note)
Bullying and violence are legitimate OHS issues - and workers and elected OHS reps have an important role to
play in ensuring that their workplaces have adequate policies and procedures in place to prevent bullying and
violence occurring as well as ensuring that any alleged instances are dealt with.
Stress
Stress at work can lead to illness and injury. Expecting workers to somehow “cope” with stress is no answer.
The answer lies in identifying what are the workplace factors contributing to stress (stressors) and then
working to remove or reduce them. You will often hear employers saying, “Stress is a fact of life, and
sometimes it’s good for you.” Don’t be fooled, stress is not good for workers, and many workplace stressors
can be controlled. If it can’t be eliminated altogether, stress at the workplace can be greatly reduced.
Air Conditioning & Legionnaires Disease
Many workers spend long periods of time indoors, in air-conditioned buildings. If the air-conditioning system is
not maintained, a number of problems, some potentially lethal, can occur.
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Heat
Heat, whether 'seasonal' or part of the 'normal work environment', can be a hazard - working in heat can lead
to workers suffering serious illness and can also lead to increased accidents. Cold
Cold
Working in cold conditions is a hazard with many thousands of workers exposed to cold in environments such
as outdoor work in winter months, freezer plants, meat packinghouses and cold storage facilities.
Noise
Noise is of the most widespread and underestimated of workplace hazards. Workers exposed to high noise
levels are at risk of suffering permanent noise induced hearing loss. Noise at lower levels can also be a hazard.
Chemical Hazards
Question 1
Photocopiers
List the hazards of photocopiers
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
Social and Psychological Hazards
Some hazards are harder to identify than others. Health studies have shown that administrative workers often
suffer a lot of work stress. Social and psychological hazards can still occur in a well-designed, comfortable, well
lit, ergonomically designed office.
Some of the social and psychological hazards to look out for are as follows;
Variety
Working at the same task everyday can lead to boredom, physical strain and stress.
Independence
You feel better about your position if you are involved in the decision making process and asked for your
opinion about changes that may affect you.
Feedback
You need to know how well you are doing your job. You need constructive positive and negative feedback. A
healthy office is one where lines of communication between staff are open.
Social Interaction
Working in an office can mean working with lots of different people. You must not allow your personal likes,
dislikes, preferences or prejudges influence the way you interact with the people you work with.
Job Demand
Stress can be caused by overwork and under work. You need a healthy balance where tasks are challenging but
not unachievable.
Achievement
Jobs need to be designed and or structure so that all employees have a worthwhile role in the company.
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Social and Psychological Hazards
Question 1
Complete the sentences.
Some hazards are harder to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ than others. Health studies have shown that administrative workers
often suffer a lot of work _ _ _ _ _ _ . Social and psychological hazards can still occur in a well-designed,
comfortable, well lit, ergonomically designed office.
Some of the social and psychological hazards to look out for are as follows;
_______
Working at the same task everyday can lead to boredom, physical strain and stress.
Independence
You feel better about your position if you are involved in the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ making process and asked for your
opinion about changes that may affect you.
Feedback
You need to know how well you are doing your job. You need constructive positive and negative feedback. A _
_ _ _ _ _ _ office is one where lines of communication between staff are open.
Social Interaction
Working in an office can mean working with lots of _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ people. You must not allow your personal
likes, dislikes, preferences or prejudges influence the way you interact with the people you work with.
Job Demand
Stress can be caused by overwork and under work. You need a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ balance where tasks are
challenging but not unachievable.
Achievement
Jobs need to be designed and or structure so that all employees have a worthwhile _ _ _ _ in the company.
FINAL ASSESSMENT
Go to the following website
http://www.workcover.act.gov.au/actsafe/module.cfm?id=5
Click on Individual Assessment
Complete the questions and print your certificate.
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