EHSmanual.pdf

Environment Health and SafetyManual

Version 1.1 May 2000

Reference Number:

THE RISK MANAGEMENT OFFICE EHS Manual AMENDMENTS

The University of Melbourne

2000 The University of Melbourne.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, inany form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the priorpermission of the University of Melbourne.

Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction to Environment Health and Safety 111 Introduction to the Environment Health and Safety Manual 112 Occupational Health & Safety Policy 2

12.1 Purpose 212.2 Application 212.3 Legislation 212.4 References 312.5 Occupational Health and Safety Policy 3

12.5.1 Commitment 312.5.2 Safety Objectives 312.5.3 Responsibilities For Safety 412.5.4 Consultation 5

13 Environmental Policy 514 Environment Health and Safety Objectives 6

14.1 Purpose 614.2 Application 614.3 Legislation 614.4 References 714.5 Responsibilities 714.6 Procedure and Guidelines 7

14.6.1 Overview of Objectives and Targets 714.6.2 Information used for the establishment ofObjectives and Targets

8

14.6.3 Requirements of the EAC and its sub committeesand working groups

9

15 Legislation 1015.1 Environmental Legislation 10

15.1.1 Purpose 1015.1.2 Application 1015.1.3 Legislation 1015.1.4 References 1115.1.5 Responsibilities 1115.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 11

15.1.6.1 Identification of relevant legal and otherrequirements

11

15.1.6.2 Management of legal and other requirements 1115.1.6.3 Monitoring of changes to legal and otherrequirements

11

i


15.1.6.4 Communication of relevant information on legaland other requirements

12

15.2 Occupational Health and Safety Legislation 1215.2.1 Introduction to OHS Legislation 1215.2.2 Victorian Acts of Parlaiment 1315.2.3 Regulations 1415.2.4 Codes of Practice 1615.2.5 Australian Standards 1615.2.6 Other Codes and Guidelines 17

15.3 Licenses and Permits 1715.3.1 Purpose 1715.3.2 Application 1815.3.3 Legislation 1815.3.4 References 1815.3.5 Responsibilities 18

15.3.5.1 Risk Management Office 1815.3.5.2 Property and Buildings 1915.3.5.3 Head of Department 1915.3.5.4 Supervisor / Nominee 1915.3.5.5 Staff / Students 19

15.3.6 Procedures and Guidelines 1915.3.6.1 Summary of Licenses and Permits 1915.3.6.2 Central Licenses for the Risk ManagementOffice

20

15.3.6.3 Central Licenses for Property and Buildings 2015.3.6.4 Faculty and Departmental License and Permits 21

16 Management Systems 2216.1 Introduction to Management Systems 22

16.1.1 Purpose 2216.1.2 Application 2216.1.3 Legislation 2216.1.4 References 2216.1.5 Responsibilities 2216.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 23

16.1.6.1 SafetyMAP 2316.1.6.2 Environmental Management System (EMS) 2316.1.6.3 Integration of SafetyMAP and EMS 2416.1.6.4 Environmental Health and Safety Manual 2416.1.6.5 Integration of the EMS with other UniversitySystems

25

16.1.6.6 Auditing, Measuring and Monitoring theManagement Systems

26

ii

Introduction to Environment Health and Safety Contents

16.2 Document and Data Control 2616.2.1 Purpose 2616.2.2 Application 2616.2.3 Legislation 2616.2.4 References 2616.2.5 Responsibilities 26

16.2.5.1 Responsible Committee 2616.2.5.2 Risk Management Office 2616.2.5.3 Records Services 26

16.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 2716.2.6.1 Review of Procedures 2716.2.6.2 Approval of Documents 2716.2.6.3 Issue of Documents 2716.2.6.4 Availability of Documents 2816.2.6.5 Security of Documents 2816.2.6.6 Retention of Documents 2816.2.6.7 Receipt and Control of External Documents 28

16.3 Records Management 2816.3.1 Purpose 2816.3.2 Application 2916.3.3 Legislation 2916.3.4 References 3016.3.5 Responsibilities 30

16.3.5.1 Head of Department (or delegate) 3016.3.5.2 Supervisors 3016.3.5.3 All Staff &/ Students 30

16.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 3116.4 Procedure for Procedures 32

16.4.1 Purpose 3216.4.2 Application 3216.4.3 Legislation 3216.4.4 References 3316.4.5 Responsibilities 33

16.4.5.1 Risk Management Office 3316.4.5.2 Deans and Heads of Departments 3316.4.5.3 Supervisors 3316.4.5.4 Staff / Students 33

16.4.6 Procedure and Guidelines 3316.4.6.1 Outline of Procedures 3316.4.6.2 Content of Procedures 3316.4.6.3 Review of Procedures 34

iii


16.5 Auditing 3416.5.1 Purpose 3416.5.2 Application 3416.5.3 Legislation 3416.5.4 References 3416.5.5 Responsibilities 3416.5.6 Procedures and Guidelines 35

16.6 Communication 3616.6.1 Purpose 3616.6.2 Application 3616.6.3 Legislation 3616.6.4 References 3616.6.5 Responsibilities 3716.6.6 Procedure and Guidelines 37

16.6.6.1 Internal Communication 3716.6.6.2 External Communication 3816.6.6.3 Communication with Regulatory Bodies 38

Chapter 2 Structure and Responsibilities 3921 Risk Management Office 39

21.1 Overview of Risk Management Office 3921.1.1 Purpose 3921.1.2 Application 3921.1.3 Legislation 3921.1.4 References 3921.1.5 Responsibilities 39

21.1.5.1 Director 3921.1.5.2 Office Management & Executive Assistant 4021.1.5.3 Radiation Protection and Safety Officer 4021.1.5.4 Acting EHS Systems Manager 4021.1.5.5 EHS Advisor 4021.1.5.6 EHS Internal Auditor 4021.1.5.7 Green Office CoOrdinator 4021.1.5.8 Work Cover Claims Officer 4121.1.5.9 Return to Work Coordinator 4121.1.5.10 Acting Self Insurance Officer 4121.1.5.11 Acting Insurance Manager 4121.1.5.12 Ergonomist 4121.1.5.13 Claims and Finance Administrator 41

21.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 41

iv

Structure and Responsibilities Contents

21.2 Insurance Guidelines and Information 4121.2.1 Purpose 4221.2.2 Application 4221.2.3 Legislation 4221.2.4 References 4221.2.5 Responsibilities 42

21.2.5.1 Insurance Manager, Risk Management Office 4221.2.5.2 Heads of Department / DepartmentalManagers

42

21.2.5.3 Staff / Students / Others 4221.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 42

21.2.6.1 Employee Insurance Cover 4321.2.6.2 Employee Travel Cover 4321.2.6.3 Non Staff Cover 4321.2.6.4 Professional Indemnity Insurance 4321.2.6.5 Student Insurance 4321.2.6.6 Property Insurance 43

22 Occupational Health and Safety Committee 4422.1 Purpose 4422.2 Application 4422.3 Legislation 4422.4 References 4422.5 Responsibilities 44

22.5.1 University Occupational Health and SafetyCommittee

44

22.5.2 Chairperson 4522.5.3 Employer Representatives 4522.5.4 Employee Health and Safety Representatives 4522.5.5 Gender balance observers, if required 4522.5.6 Student Observers 4522.5.7 Occasional Observers 45

22.6 Procedure and Guidelines 4623 Environment Advisory Committee 46

23.1 Purpose 4623.2 Application 46

23.2.1 Function and Accountabilities 4623.2.2 Membership 4623.2.3 Meeting Structure 46

23.3 Legislation 4723.4 References 4723.5 Responsibilities 47

23.5.1 Environment Advisory Committee 4723.5.2 Risk Management Office 47

23.6 Procedure and Guidelines 47

v


24 Department and Faculty Responsibilities for Environmentand Safety

48

24.1 Departmental and Faculty Responsibilities forCommittees

48

24.1.1 Introduction to Environment Health and SafetyCommittees

48

24.1.2 Committees 4824.1.2.1 Departmental Environment Health and SafetyCommittees

48

24.1.2.2 Faculty Environment Health and SafetyCommittees

48

24.1.2.3 University OHSC and EAC 4824.2 Staff Responsibility for Environment and Safety 48


24.2.5.1 Authority for Staff 4924.2.5.2 Deans and Heads of departments 4924.2.5.3 Managers and Section Heads 5024.2.5.4 Supervisors (any person who controls ordirects others)

50

24.2.5.5 Staff 5024.2.5.6 Contractor Responsibilities 5124.2.5.7 Departmental / Faculty Safety Officers 5124.2.5.8 Elected Health and Safety Representatives(HSR)

51

24.2.5.9 Environmental Representatives 5224.2.5.10 Departmental Radiation Safety Officer 5224.2.5.11 First Aid Officers 5324.2.5.12 Building Emergency Controller 5324.2.5.13 Deputy Building Emergency Controller 5324.2.5.14 Floor Wardens 53

24.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 5324.3 Student Responsibility for Environment and Safety 54


24.3.5.1 Students 5424.3.5.2 Student Union 5424.3.5.3 Academic Supervisors 54

24.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 5524.3.6.1 Children on Campus 55

vi

Structure and Responsibilities Contents

24.4 Health and Safety Representatives 5524.4.1 Purpose 5524.4.2 Application 5524.4.3 Legislation 5524.4.4 References 5524.4.5 Responsibilities 55

24.4.5.1 University OH&S Committee 5524.4.5.2 HSR Functions 5524.4.5.3 Elected Health and Safety Representatives 5624.4.5.4 Management Health and SafetyRepresentatives

56

24.4.5.5 Deputy HSR 5724.4.5.6 Local Area Managers 57

24.4.6 Procedure and Guidelines 5724.4.6.1 Executive Services 5724.4.6.2 Term of Office 5724.4.6.3 Staff Development and Training 58

25 EHS Training 5825.1 Purpose 5825.2 Application 5825.3 Legislation 5825.4 References 5825.5 Responsibilities 5825.6 Procedure and Guidelines 58

25.6.1 Provision of Training 5825.6.2 Employment of Staff 5925.6.3 Mandatory Training 5925.6.4 Identification of Training 6025.6.5 Induction of Contractors 6025.6.6 Testing for Competency 6025.6.7 Records 6025.6.8 Specific Environmental Training 60

Chapter 3 Identification, Assessment and Control 6331 Hazard Identification, Assessment and Control Introduction 63

31.1 Purpose 6331.2 Application 6331.3 Legislation 6331.4 References 6331.5 Responsibilities 63

vii


31.6 Procedure and Guidelines 6431.6.1 Audit Requirements 6431.6.2 Terminology 6431.6.3 Overview of Risk Management 6531.6.4 Establish the Context 6531.6.5 The Organisational Context 6631.6.6 The Risk Management Context 6631.6.7 Risk Evaluation Criteria 66

32 Hazard Identification, Assessment and Control Application 6732.1 Purpose 6732.2 Application 6732.3 Legislation 6732.4 References 6732.5 Responsibilities 6832.6 Procedure and Guidelines 68

32.6.1 Identification of Hazards and EnvironmentalAspects

68

32.6.2 Tools and Techniques: Checklists 6832.6.3 Managing Tools and Techniques 6832.6.4 Risk Assessment of Personal Safety Risks andEnvironmental Impacts

69

32.6.5 Risk Assessment Form 2D Model 6932.6.6 Risk Assessment Form 3D Model 6932.6.7 Legal Implications for Environmental Risk Analysis 7032.6.8 Consequences, Likelihood and Residual Risk 7032.6.9 Risk Evaluation 7132.6.10 Hierarchy of Risk Controls 7232.6.11 Reporting 73

33 Hazard Identification, Assessment and Control Monitoringand Measurement

73


33.5.1 Risk Management Office 7433.6 Procedures and Guidelines 74

33.6.1 Monitoring and Measuring the ManagementSystems

74

33.6.2 Measuring for SafetyMAP 7433.6.3 Measuring for Environmental Considerations 7433.6.4 Notification and Review 7533.6.5 Review of Risk Assessments 75

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Identification, Assessment and Control Contents

34 EHS PrePurchasing (July 2003) DRAFT 7534.1 Purpose 7534.2 Application 7634.3 Legislation 7634.4 References 7634.5 Responsiblities 77

34.5.1 Heads of Departments, Administrative Divisions 7734.5.2 Departmental Managers, Supervisors 7734.5.3 Staff / Students 77


Chapter 4 Reporting 8141 OHS Issue Resolution Procedure 81


41.5.1 Head of Department 8141.5.2 Local Area Supervisor 8141.5.3 The Elected Health and Safety Representative 81

41.6 Procedure and Guidelines 8141.6.1 Issue Resolution 8141.6.2 Immediate Safety Hazards 8241.6.3 Hierarchy of Controls 8341.6.4 Guidelines for Incident Categories 83

42 Incident and Hazard Reporting 8342.1 Purpose 8342.2 Application 8342.3 Legislation 8442.4 References 8442.5 Responsibilities 84

42.5.1 Risk Management Office 8442.5.2 Head of Department or nominee 8442.5.3 Supervisors 8542.5.4 All Employees 8542.5.5 Students and Visitors 85

42.6 Procedure and Guidelines 8543 Investigation of Incidents 86

43.1 Purpose 8643.2 Application 8643.3 Legislation 8643.4 References 87

ix


43.5 Responsibilities 8743.5.1 Head of Department 8743.5.2 Health and Safety Representative 8743.5.3 Supervisors 8743.5.4 Risk Management Office 88

43.6 Procedure and Guidelines 8843.6.1 Information Gathering 8843.6.2 Environmental Incidents 8843.6.3 Incident Types 8843.6.4 Control of Hazards 89

Chapter 5 Environment and Safety in the Workplace 9151 General 91

51.1 Australian Standards in Laboratories 9151.1.1 Purpose 9151.1.2 Application 9151.1.3 Legislation 9151.1.4 References 9151.1.5 Responsibilities 91

51.1.5.1 Department Heads 9151.1.5.2 Risk Management Office 91

51.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 9251.1.6.1 Laboratories with Dangerous Goods 9251.1.6.2 Using AS 2243 Safety in Laboratories 9251.1.6.3 Understanding AS 2982 LaboratoryConstruction

92

51.2 After Hours Work and Equipment (February 2003) 9251.2.1 Purpose 9251.2.2 Application 9251.2.3 Legislation 9251.2.4 References 9351.2.5 Responsibilities 93

51.2.5.1 Head of Department 9351.2.5.2 Supervisors 9351.2.5.3 Staff and Students 93

51.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 9351.2.6.1 Working out of hours or whilst on leave orspecial studies

93

51.2.6.2 Terms of Risk Assessments 9451.2.6.3 Unsupervised Student Laboratory and StudyAreas

94

51.2.6.4 Laboratory and office Areas 9451.2.6.5 High Risk Hazards (Not to be undertakenalone or after hours alone)

95

x

Environment and Safety in the Workplace Contents

52 Chemical Management 9552.1 Chemical Management 95

52.1.1 Policy 9552.1.2 Application 9552.1.3 Legislation 9552.1.4 Definitions 9652.1.5 Responsibilities 96

52.1.5.1 Head of Department / Nominee 9652.1.5.2 Risk Management Office 9652.1.5.3 Staff and Students 96

52.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 9752.1.6.1 Labelling 9752.1.6.2 Storage 9752.1.6.3 Quantities 9852.1.6.4 Segregation 98

52.2 Hazardous Substances 9852.2.1 Purpose 9852.2.2 Application 9852.2.3 Legislation 9852.2.4 References 9852.2.5 Definitions 9852.2.6 Responsibilities 99

52.2.6.1 Health Services 9952.2.6.2 Human Resources 9952.2.6.3 Head of Department 9952.2.6.4 Departmental Managers 10052.2.6.5 All Employees 10052.2.6.6 Risk Management Office 100

52.2.7 Procedure and Guidelines 10152.2.7.1 Licencing and Notification Requirements 10152.2.7.2 Storage 10152.2.7.3 Use 10152.2.7.4 Risk Assessment Process 10152.2.7.5 Scheduled Hazardous Substances 102

52.2.8 Guidelines for Carcinogens 10352.2.8.1 Handling 10452.2.8.2 Storage and Labelling 10452.2.8.3 Safety in the Laboratory 10452.2.8.4 Protective Equipment 10552.2.8.5 Contamination 10552.2.8.6 Licensing and Monitoring 10552.2.8.7 Animal Experimentation and Carcinogens 10552.2.8.8 Waste Disposal 10552.2.8.9 Emergency Procedures 106

xi


52.3 Dangerous Goods 10652.3.1 Purpose 10652.3.2 Application 10652.3.3 Legislation 10652.3.4 References 10752.3.5 Definitions 10752.3.6 Responsibilities 107

52.3.6.1 Head of Department 10752.3.6.2 Departmental Manager 10752.3.6.3 Staff and Students 10852.3.6.4 Risk Management Office 10852.3.6.5 Security 108

52.3.7 Procedure and Guidelines 10852.3.7.1 Register / Manifest 10852.3.7.2 Storage 10852.3.7.3 Handling 10952.3.7.4 Transport Across Campus 10952.3.7.5 Dangerous Goods Risk Assessment Process 10952.3.7.6 Special Requirements for Dangerous Goods 10952.3.7.7 Placarding 111

52.3.8 Special Dangerous Goods 11152.3.8.1 Flammable Liquids 11152.3.8.2 Gases 111

TooDeep! Special Guidelines for Handling InertGases

112

52.4 Poisons and Drugs 11252.4.1 Purpose 11252.4.2 Application 11252.4.3 Legislation 11352.4.4 References 11352.4.5 Responsibilities 113

52.4.5.1 Head of Department 11352.4.5.2 Permit Holder 11352.4.5.3 Risk Management Office 11352.4.5.4 Staff 113

52.4.6 Procedures and Guidelines 11352.4.6.1 Application for a Permit 11352.4.6.2 Preparation of a Register 11452.4.6.3 Storage and Use 11452.4.6.4 Disposal 114

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52.5 Other Chemical Substances 11452.5.1 Purpose 11452.5.2 Application 11452.5.3 Legislation 11452.5.4 References 11552.5.5 Responsibilities 115

52.5.5.1 Head of Department / Departmental Manager 11552.5.5.2 Risk Management Office 11552.5.5.3 School of Chemistry 115

52.5.6 Procedure and Guidelines 11552.5.6.1 Alcohol 11552.5.6.2 Cryogenic Liquids 11652.5.6.3 Cytotoxic Substances 116

52.6 Material Safety Data Sheets 11752.6.1 Purpose 11752.6.2 Application 11752.6.3 Legislation 11752.6.4 References 11752.6.5 Responsibilities 117

52.6.5.1 Laboratory Managers, Workshop Managersand Supervisors

117

52.6.5.2 Risk Management Office 11752.6.5.3 Staff 117

52.6.6 Procedure and Guidelines 11852.7 Labelling of Chemicals 118


52.7.5.1 Head of Department 11952.7.5.2 Departmental Managers 11952.7.5.3 Staff / Students 119

52.7.6 Procedure and Guidelines 11952.7.6.1 Information on Labels 11952.7.6.2 Labels on Decanted Containers 12052.7.6.3 Labelling of Waste 120

53 Biohazards 12053.1 Use of Animals 120

53.1.1 Purpose 12053.1.2 Application 12053.1.3 Legislation 12153.1.4 References 121

xiii


53.1.5 Responsibilities 12153.1.5.1 Deans and Heads of Academic andAdministrative Departments

121

53.1.5.2 Managers and Supervisors 12153.1.5.3 All Employees 121

53.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 12253.1.6.1 Personal Protections for Working with Animals 12253.1.6.2 Special Consideration Animals 12253.1.6.3 Pregnancy and Work with Animals 12353.1.6.4 Work Requiring Immunisation 12353.1.6.5 Biological Permits 123

53.2 Biohazard Committee 12353.2.1 Purpose 12353.2.2 Application 12353.2.3 Legislation 12453.2.4 References 12453.2.5 Responsibilities 124

53.2.5.1 Biohazard Committee 12453.2.5.2 Biosafety Sub Committee 12453.2.5.3 Gene Technology Committees 124

53.2.6 Procedures and Guidelines 12453.2.6.1 Biohazard Committee Activities 12553.2.6.2 Gene Technology Requirements 125

53.3 Importation of Biological Materials 12553.3.1 Purpose 12553.3.2 Application 12553.3.3 Legislation 12553.3.4 References 12653.3.5 Responsibilities 126

53.3.5.1 Deans and Heads of Academic andAdministrative Departments

126

53.3.5.2 Managers and Supervisors 12653.3.5.3 Staff / Students 126

53.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 12653.3.6.1 Importation Permits 12653.3.6.2 Local Authorisation 12753.3.6.3 Potential Problems Associated with theImportation of Biological Material

127

53.3.6.4 Further Information 12753.4 Transport and Packaging of Infectious Material 127


xiv


53.4.5 Responsibilities 12953.4.5.1 Deans and Heads of Academic andAdministrative Departments

129


53.4.6 Procedure and Guidelines 12953.4.6.1 Transport of Infectious Waste 12953.4.6.2 Classification of Biological Materials 12953.4.6.3 Packaging of Infectious Waste 130

53.5 Laboratory Guidelines Sterilisation 13053.5.1 Purpose 13053.5.2 Application 13053.5.3 Legislation 13053.5.4 References 13053.5.5 Responsibilities 131


131


53.5.6 Procedure and Guidelines 13153.5.6.1 Sterilisation by Steam 13153.5.6.2 Disinfection and Sterilisation by Heat 13253.5.6.3 Disinfection by Chemical Agent 13253.5.6.4 Selection of Disinfectants 134

53.6 Spill Response 13453.6.1 Purpose 13453.6.2 Application 13453.6.3 Legislation 13453.6.4 References 13453.6.5 Responsibilities 134


53.6.6 Procedure and Guidelines 13553.6.6.1 Spills in Laboratory Areas 13553.6.6.2 Spills Inside Biological Safety Cabinets 13553.6.6.3 Spills Inside Centrifuges 136

53.7 Equipment for Handling Biological Materials 13653.7.1 Purpose 13653.7.2 Application 13653.7.3 Legislation 13653.7.4 References 13753.7.5 Responsibilities 137


xv


53.7.6 Procedure and Guidelines 13753.7.6.1 Centrifuges 13753.7.6.2 Refrigerators and Freezers 13753.7.6.3 Biological Safety Cabinets 13853.7.6.4 Servicing Equipment 13953.7.6.5 Malfunction of Equipment 139

53.8 Work Practices 14053.8.1 Purpose 14053.8.2 Application 14053.8.3 Legislation 14053.8.4 References 14053.8.5 Responsibilities 140


140

53.8.5.2 Managers and Supervisors 14153.8.5.3 Staff Students 141

53.8.6 Procedure and Guidelines 14153.8.6.1 Laboratory Accommodation 14153.8.6.2 Safe Work Practices 141

53.9 Laboratory Hygiene 14253.9.1 Purpose 14253.9.2 Application 14253.9.3 Legislation 14253.9.4 References 14253.9.5 Responsibilities 143


143


53.9.6 Procedure and Guidelines 14353.9.6.1 Handling Potential Sources of Contamination 14353.9.6.2 Precautions for Laboratory Workers 14353.9.6.3 First Aid 14453.9.6.4 Reporting Incidents 144

54 NonIonising Electromagnetic Radiation, Including SoundDRAFT

145

54.1 Protection for NonIonising Radiation 14554.1.1 Purpose 14554.1.2 Application 14554.1.3 Legislation 14554.1.4 References 14554.1.5 Definitions 145

xvi


54.1.6 Responsibilities 14554.1.6.1 Managers and Department Radiation SafetyOfficers (D.R.S.Os)

145

54.1.6.2 Departments in Control of Equipment that emitsNonIonizing Electromagnetic Radiation

146

54.1.6.3 Staff / Students 14654.1.7 Procedure and Guidelines 146

54.1.7.1 Safe Guarding Requirements 14654.1.7.2 Extremely Low Frequency Electric Fields(ELFEF)

146

54.1.7.3 Types of Radiation 14755 Ionising Radiation (DRAFT) 152

55.1 Radiation Management Plan 15255.1.1 Purpose 15255.1.2 Application 15355.1.3 Legislation 15355.1.4 References 15355.1.5 Responsibilities 153

55.1.5.1 University Radiation Adviser 15355.1.5.2 Radiation Safety Committee 15455.1.5.3 Head of Department 15455.1.5.4 Departmental Radiation Safety Officer 15455.1.5.5 Staff / Students 155

55.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 15555.1.6.1 Assessment of Risk 15555.1.6.2 Control Measures 15555.1.6.3 Justification 15555.1.6.4 Training 15555.1.6.5 Plan Requirements 15555.1.6.6 Penalties 15555.1.6.7 Contact Details 156

55.2 Licencing Requirements 15655.2.1 Purpose 15655.2.2 Application 15655.2.3 Legislation 15655.2.4 References 15655.2.5 Responsibilities 156

55.2.5.1 Radiation Adviser, Risk Management Office 15655.2.5.2 Heads of Department / DepartmentalRadiation Safety Officers

156


55.2.6.1 Management License 15755.2.6.2 Operator Licenses 15755.2.6.3 Unit and Sealed Source Licenses 157

xvii


55.3 Purchasing Procedures 15755.3.1 Purpose 15755.3.2 Application 15755.3.3 Legislation 15855.3.4 References 15855.3.5 Responsibilities 158

55.3.5.1 Departmental managers, supervisors andDRSOs

158

55.3.6 Staff / Students 15855.3.7 Procedure and Guidelines 158

55.4 Storage and Handling of Radionuclides 15955.4.1 Purpose 15955.4.2 Application 15955.4.3 Legislation 15955.4.4 References 15955.4.5 Responsibilities 159

55.4.5.1 Department Managers, Supervisors andDRSOs

159


55.4.6.1 Training 16055.4.6.2 Monitoring 16055.4.6.3 Monitoring Equipment 16055.4.6.4 Reduction of Hazards 16055.4.6.5 Transport and Storage 16155.4.6.6 Shielding 16155.4.6.7 Decontamination and Wipe Tests 16155.4.6.8 Disposal 161

55.5 Emergency Procedures 16155.5.1 Purpose 16155.5.2 Application 16155.5.3 Legislation 16255.5.4 References 16255.5.5 Responsibilities 162

55.5.5.1 Department Managers, Supervisors andDRSOs

162

55.5.5.2 Staff and Students 16255.5.6 Procedure and Guidelines 162

55.5.6.1 Emergency Requirements 16255.5.6.2 Hazard Identification 16255.5.6.3 Possible Emergency Scenarios 16355.5.6.4 Medical Care for Radiation Exposure Victims 163

xviii


56 Electrical Safety 16356.1 Electrical Safety and Withdrawing Unsafe ElectricalEquipment from Use

163



56.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 16456.1.6.1 Danger/Out of Service Tags 16456.1.6.2 Electrical Safety Guidelines 164

56.2 Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment 16556.2.1 Purpose 16556.2.2 Application 16556.2.3 Legislation 16556.2.4 References 16556.2.5 Definitions 16556.2.6 Responsibilities 166

56.2.6.1 Property & Buildings 16656.2.6.2 Maintenance Manager 16656.2.6.3 Maintenance Personnel / Contractors 16756.2.6.4 Head of Department 16756.2.6.5 Supervisors 16756.2.6.6 Audio Visual Unit 16756.2.6.7 Staff / Students 16756.2.6.8 Trained Electrical Testing Staff 168

56.3 Electrical Licenses 16856.3.1 Purpose 16856.3.2 Application 16856.3.3 Legislation 16856.3.4 References 16856.3.5 Responsibilities 169

56.3.5.1 Head of Department 16956.3.5.2 Disconnect/reconnect workers license holders 16956.3.5.3 Approved work areas 16956.3.5.4 Head Electrician, Maintenance 169

56.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 16956.4 Heating and Ventilation Installations 170


xix


56.4.5 Responsibilities 17056.4.5.1 Property & Buildings 17056.4.5.2 Risk Management Office 17056.4.5.3 Occupational Health and Safety Committee 17056.4.5.4 Head of Department / Department Manager 17156.4.5.5 Supervisors 17156.4.5.6 Staff / Students 171

56.4.6 Procedure and Guidelines 17156.4.6.1 Air Conditioning 17156.4.6.2 Heating 17156.4.6.3 Air Quality 17156.4.6.4 Air Contaminants 172

57 Mechanical 17257.1 Safe Use of Ducted Fume Cupboards 172


57.1.5.1 Laboratory, managers, department managersand supervisors

172

57.1.5.2 Property Services 17357.1.5.3 All Employees 173

57.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 17357.2 Plant Regulations 175


57.2.5.1 Suppliers Including Importers 17657.2.5.2 Supplier of Used Plant 17657.2.5.3 Supplier of Hired Plant 17657.2.5.4 Head of Department 17657.2.5.5 Supervisor 17757.2.5.6 Operators of Plant 178

57.2.6 Procedures and Guidelines 17857.2.6.1 Plant Registration 17857.2.6.2 Hazard Identification 17857.2.6.3 Risk Control Measures 17857.2.6.4 Guarding and Emergency Systems 17857.2.6.5 Certificates of Competency 179

xx


57.3 Withdrawl of Unsafe Equipment from Use (DRAFT) 17957.3.1 Purpose 17957.3.2 Application 17957.3.3 Legislation 17957.3.4 References 17957.3.5 Responsibilities 179

57.3.5.1 Managers and Supervisors 17957.3.5.2 Staff, students, contractors and Visitors 180

57.3.6 Procedures and Guidelines 18058 Waste Disposal 180

58.1 Summary of Waste Disposal Methods 18058.1.1 Purpose 18058.1.2 Application 18058.1.3 Legislation 18058.1.4 References 18158.1.5 Responsibilities 181

58.1.5.1 Managers and Supervisors 18158.1.5.2 All Employees 18158.1.5.3 Risk Management Office 181

58.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 18258.1.6.1 Waste Packaging and Transport 18258.1.6.2 Waste Categories for disposal 18258.1.6.3 EPA Certificates and Prescribed Waste 18258.1.6.4 Collection Points 18358.1.6.5 Disposal Methods 183

58.2 Disposal of Hazardous Waste 18358.2.1 Purpose 18358.2.2 Application 18358.2.3 Legislation 18458.2.4 References 18458.2.5 Responsibilities 184

58.2.5.1 Laboratory Managers, Supervisors and Staff 18458.2.5.2 All Employees 18458.2.5.3 Risk Management Office 184

58.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 18558.2.6.1 Ethidium Bromide Waste 18558.2.6.2 Other Hazardous Waste 185

58.3 Disposal of Chemical Waste 18658.3.1 Purpose 18658.3.2 Application 18658.3.3 Legislation 18658.3.4 References 18658.3.5 Responsibilities 186

58.3.5.1 Laboratory managers, departmental managersand supervisors

186

58.3.5.2 All Employees 187

xxi


58.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 18758.3.6.1 Gases 18758.3.6.2 Laboratory Reagents 18758.3.6.3 Monthly Waste Solvent Disposal 18758.3.6.4 Waste Oils 18858.3.6.5 Chemical Information 18858.3.6.6 Packaging, Labelling and Storage 18958.3.6.7 Transport and Collection Points 18958.3.6.8 Disposal of Chemicals down the sink 190

58.4 Disposal of Glass 19058.4.1 Purpose 19058.4.2 Application 19058.4.3 Legislation 19058.4.4 References 19058.4.5 Responsibilities 190

58.4.5.1 All Employees 19058.4.5.2 Risk Management Office 190

58.4.6 Procedure and Guidelines 19158.4.6.1 All Glass 19158.4.6.2 Float Glass 19158.4.6.3 Pyrex and Non Pyrex Glass 191

58.5 Disposal of Sharps 19158.5.1 Purpose 19158.5.2 Application 19158.5.3 Legislation 19158.5.4 References 19158.5.5 Responsibilities 192

58.5.5.1 Laboratory Managers and Supervisors 19258.5.5.2 University Stationary Store 19258.5.5.3 All Employees 19258.5.5.4 Risk Management Office 192

58.5.6 Procedure and Guidelines 19258.5.6.1 Use of Containers 19258.5.6.2 Packaging and Labelling 19258.5.6.3 Disposal 19258.5.6.4 Cost 192

58.6 Disposal of Animal Carcasses 19358.6.1 Purpose 19358.6.2 Application 19358.6.3 Legislation 19358.6.4 References 19358.6.5 Responsibilities 193


193


xxii


58.6.6 Procedure and Guidelines 19458.6.6.1 Disposal through Mediwaste 19458.6.6.2 Disposal through Cleanaway 19558.6.6.3 Disposal through Pridham 19558.6.6.4 Disposal of Radioactive Carcasses 195

58.7 Disposal of Radioactive Wastes 19558.7.1 Purpose 19558.7.2 Application 19558.7.3 Legislation 19658.7.4 References 19658.7.5 Responsibilities 196

58.7.5.1 Departmental Managers, Supervisors,DRSOs

196

58.7.5.2 Staff and Students 19658.7.5.3 Risk Management Office 196

58.7.6 Procedure and Guidelines 19658.7.6.1 Definitions 19758.7.6.2 Methods for Disposal of Radioactive Waste 19758.7.6.3 Requirements for Waste Disposal Packaging 19858.7.6.4 Labelling 19858.7.6.5 Disposal 19858.7.6.6 Disposal Concentrations 199

58.8 Disposal of Plant or Equipment 19958.8.1 Purpose 19958.8.2 Application 19958.8.3 Legislation 20058.8.4 References 20058.8.5 Responsibilities 200

58.8.5.1 Head of Department 20058.8.6 Procedure and Guidelines 200

58.8.6.1 Transfer of plant to a Third Party (SupplierDuty)

200

58.8.6.2 Sale of In House Manufactured Plant 20158.8.6.3 Special Risks 201

58.9 Laboratory Project Cessation 20158.9.1 Purpose 20158.9.2 Application 20158.9.3 Legislation 20258.9.4 References 20258.9.5 Responsibilities 202

58.9.5.1 Supervisors 20258.9.5.2 Risk Management Office 202

58.9.6 Procedure and Guidelines 203

Chapter 6 Emergency Response 205

xxiii


61 Emergency Management Plans June 2003 20561.1 Purpose 20561.2 Application 20561.3 Legislation 20561.4 References 20561.5 Responsibilities 20561.6 Procedure and Guidelines 205

62 Model Emergency Procedures 20762.1 Purpose 20762.2 Application 20762.3 Legislation 20762.4 References 20762.5 Responsibilities 20762.6 Procedures and Guidelines 207

63 Emergency Evacuation Procedure Duties 21263.1 Purpose 21363.2 Application 21363.3 Legislation 21363.4 References 21363.5 Responsibilities 213

63.5.1 Risk Management Office 21363.5.2 Security Office 21363.5.3 Traffic Office 21463.5.4 Maintenance 21463.5.5 Architectural Services 21463.5.6 University Emergency Controller 21463.5.7 Student Health Service 21563.5.8 Deans or Heads of Academic and AdministrativeDepartments

215

63.5.9 Deans or Heads of Campus 21563.5.10 Emergency Control Organisation 21563.5.11 Building Emergency Controller 21563.5.12 Building Emergency Controller EmergencyAction

216

63.5.13 Building Emergency Controller NonemergencyFunctions

216

63.5.14 Deputy Building Emergency Controller 21763.5.15 Floor Wardens Emergency functions 21863.5.16 Floor Wardens Nonemergency functions 21863.5.17 Section Warden 21863.5.18 Special Duties Officer 21863.5.19 First Aid Officers 21863.5.20 Staff, Students, Visitors and Contractors 219

xxiv

Emergency Response Contents

63.6 Procedure and Guidelines 21963.6.1 Identification of Wardens 21963.6.2 Emergency Management Team 21963.6.3 Liability and Insurance 220

64 Evacuation of Mobility Impaired Personnel 22064.1 Purpose 22064.2 Application 22064.3 Legislation 22064.4 References 22064.5 Responsibilities 220

64.5.1 Floor Warden 22064.5.2 All Employees 221

64.6 Procedure and Guidelines 22165 Conducting Trial Drills 221

65.1 Purpose 22165.2 Application 22165.3 Legislations 22165.4 References 22165.5 Responsibilities 222

65.5.1 Building Emergency Controller 22265.5.2 Head of Department 22265.5.3 Wardens 222

65.6 Procedure and Guidelines 22266 Policy on Clearways in Corridors 222


66.5.1 Head of Department 22366.5.2 All Employees 223

66.6 Procedure and Guidelines 22367 Installed Fire Protection Systems 224


67.5.1 Property planning and development 22467.5.2 Maintenance 22467.5.3 All Employees 225


xxv


68 Portable Fire Fighting Equipment 22668.1 Purpose 22668.2 Application 22668.3 Legislation 22668.4 References 22668.5 Responsibilities 227

68.5.1 Staff Development and Training Unit 22768.5.2 Risk Management Office 22768.5.3 Maintenance 22768.5.4 Departmental Managers 22768.5.5 All Employees 227

68.6 Procedure and Guidelines 22769 Safety Signage 228


69.5.1 Property Planning and Development and PropertyServices

229

69.5.2 Heads of Departments 22969.5.3 Principal Biohazard Researcher 22969.5.4 All Employees 229

69.6 Procedure and Guidelines 229610 Spill Control 231

610.1 Policy 231610.2 Application 231610.3 Legislation 231610.4 References 231610.5 Responsibilities 232

610.5.1 Head of Department 232610.5.2 Risk Management Office 232610.5.3 Staff / Students 232

610.6 Procedure and Guidelines 232610.6.1 Undertaking Risk Assessments 233610.6.2 Preparing for Spills 233610.6.3 Cleaning the Spill 234

Chapter 7 Specialised Hazards 237

xxvi

Contents

71 Off Campus Travel and Work Policy Draft July 2003 23771.1 Purpose 23771.2 Application 23771.3 Legislation 23771.4 References 23771.5 Definitions 23771.6 Responsibilities 237

71.6.1 Deans, Heads of Department 23771.6.2 Departmental Managers 23871.6.3 Supervisors 23871.6.4 Staff & Students 23871.6.5 Risk Management Office 238

71.7 Procedure and Guidelines 23871.7.1 Considerations for Travel 23871.7.2 Maintaining Current Records 24071.7.3 Insurance 24071.7.4 Exchange Programs 24071.7.5 Exchange Programs 241

72 Diving Safety Rules 24172.1 Purpose 24172.2 Application 24172.3 Legislation 24172.4 References 24172.5 Responsibilities 241

72.5.1 Department Managers and Supervisors 24172.5.2 Staff and Students 242

72.6 Procedures and Guidelines 24272.6.1 Equipment 24272.6.2 Diving Records and Certification 24272.6.3 Diving Medical Certificate 24272.6.4 Recommended Diving Practice 24372.6.5 Dving Incidents 243

73 Requirements for Working in Confined Spaces 24373.1 Purpose 24373.2 Application 24373.3 Legislation 24373.4 References 24373.5 Responsibilities 244

73.5.1 Managers / Supervisors 24473.5.2 All Staff 244

73.6 Procedure and Guidelines 24473.6.1 Definition of a Confined Space 24473.6.2 Risks Associated with Confined Spaces 24573.6.3 Risk Control for Confined Spaces 24573.6.4 Confined Space Work Permits 245

xxvii


74 Driving Safety DRAFT June 2003 24674.1 Purpose 24674.2 Application 24674.3 Legislation 24674.4 References 24674.5 Responsibilities 246

74.5.1 Deans and Heads of Departments 24674.5.2 Supervisors 24774.5.3 Employees driving whilst on University Business 247

74.6 Procedures and Guidelines 24774.6.1 General Duties of Drivers 24774.6.2 Accidents 24774.6.3 Using University Fleet Vehicles 24774.6.4 Using University Departmental Vehicles 24874.6.5 Insurance Information 248

74.7 Safety Driving Requirements 24874.7.1 Driver Safety 24874.7.2 Avoid Fatigue 248

Chapter 8 Occupational Health 24981 Pregnancy 249

81.1 Pregnancy and Work with Certain Substances 24981.1.1 Purpose 24981.1.2 Application 24981.1.3 Legislation 24981.1.4 References 24981.1.5 Responsibilities 249

81.1.5.1 Laboratory Managers, Supervisors 24981.1.5.2 All Laboratory or Workshop Employeescapable of being pregnant

249

81.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 25081.1.6.1 Explaining Hazardous Chemicals 25081.1.6.2 Limiting Exposure 25181.1.6.3 Safe Work Procedures 25181.1.6.4 Reproductive Hazards Posed by WorkplaceExposure

251

81.1.6.5 Notification of Pregnancy 25181.1.6.6 Maternity Leave 252

81.2 Working with Ionising Radiation while Pregnant(DRAFT)

252


xxviii

Occupational Health Contents

81.2.5 Responsibilities 25281.2.5.1 Department Managers, Supervisors andDRSOs

252

81.2.5.2 Pregnant Worker 25281.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 253

82 Workplace Health 25382.1 Asbestos Policy 253


82.1.5.1 Property & Buildings 25382.1.5.2 Risk Management Office 25482.1.5.3 Departmental Managers 25482.1.5.4 Maintenance Staff / Contractors 25482.1.5.5 Staff 254

82.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 25482.2 Control of Legionnaires Disease 255

82.2.1 Purpose 25582.2.2 Application 25582.2.3 Legislation 25582.2.4 References 25582.2.5 Definitions 25582.2.6 Responsibilities 256

82.2.6.1 Property & Buildings 25682.2.6.2 Risk Management Office 25682.2.6.3 Staff / Students 256

82.2.7 Procedure and Guidelines 25682.2.7.1 Property and Buildings Cooling TowerMaintenance Program

256

82.2.7.2 Maintenance Schedules 25682.2.7.3 Working on or near Cooling Towers 25782.2.7.4 Location of Cooling Towers 25782.2.7.5 Other sites where Legionella can be found 25782.2.7.6 Communication Plan for Positive LegionellaResults

257

82.2.7.7 Education and Awareness 25782.3 Smoking in the Workplace 257


82.3.5.1 Heads of Departments 25882.3.5.2 All Employees 258

xxix


82.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 25882.3.6.1 Smoking in the Workplace Policy Extension1998

258

82.3.6.2 Smoking Bins 25982.4 Thermal Comfort Policy 259


82.4.5.1 Managers / Supervisors 26082.4.5.2 Staff / Students 26082.4.5.3 Property and Buildings 260

82.4.6 Procedure and Guidelines 26082.4.6.1 Procedures to minimise thermal discomfort 26082.4.6.2 Safety Information 26082.4.6.3 Working Outdoors 26182.4.6.4 Cessation of Work 26182.4.6.5 Staff Suffering Heat Stress 261

82.5 Alcohol and Drugs in the Workplace 26282.5.1 Purpose 26282.5.2 Application 26282.5.3 Legislation 26282.5.4 References 26282.5.5 Policy 26282.5.6 Responsibilities 263

82.5.6.1 Senior Staff 26382.5.6.2 Supervisors 26382.5.6.3 Colleagues 26382.5.6.4 Students 263

82.5.7 Procedure & Guidelines 26382.5.7.1 Staff in charge of University vehicles andmachinery

263

82.5.7.2 Staff Training 26482.5.7.3 Further Action 26482.5.7.4 Serving Alcohol at University Functions(DRAFT)

264

82.6 Selection and Use of Personal Protective Equipment 26482.6.1 Purpose 26482.6.2 Application 26482.6.3 Legislation 26582.6.4 References 26582.6.5 Responsibilities 265

82.6.5.1 Department Managers and Supervisors 26582.6.5.2 Property and Buildings Project Officer 26582.6.5.3 Staff / Students 266

xxx


82.6.6 Procedure and Guidelines 26682.6.6.1 Conducting Risk Assessments for PPE 26682.6.6.2 Basic PPE 26682.6.6.3 Other PPE 26682.6.6.4 Sterility Protection 26782.6.6.5 Requirements for Health Monitoring 267

82.7 Workplace Cleanliness 26782.7.1 Purpose 26782.7.2 Application 26782.7.3 Legislation 26782.7.4 References 26782.7.5 Responsibilities 267

82.7.5.1 Head of Department / Department Manager 26782.7.5.2 Supervisors 26882.7.5.3 Staff / Students 26882.7.5.4 Property & Buildings 26882.7.5.5 Contract Cleaning Staff 268

82.7.6 Procedure and Guidelines 26882.7.6.1 Eating Facilities 26882.7.6.2 Change rooms 26882.7.6.3 Washing Facilities 26882.7.6.4 Drinking Water 26982.7.6.5 General Cleanliness 26982.7.6.6 Cleaning Procedures 26982.7.6.7 Spillage involving human material 26982.7.6.8 Incidents Involving Syringes 26982.7.6.9 Waste Removal 270

83 Manual Handling 27083.1 Manual Handling 270


83.1.5.1 Heads of Department 27283.1.5.2 Laboratory Managers and Supervisors 27283.1.5.3 Staff / Students 27283.1.5.4 Risk Management Office 272

83.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 27283.1.6.1 Introduction 27283.1.6.2 Identification 27283.1.6.3 Assessment 27383.1.6.4 Control 27383.1.6.5 Training 273

xxxi


83.2 Ergonomic Principles for Screen Based Work 27383.2.1 Purpose 27383.2.2 Application 27383.2.3 Legislation 27483.2.4 References 27483.2.5 Responsibilities 274

83.2.5.1 Head of Department 27483.2.5.2 Departmental Managers and Supervisors 27483.2.5.3 Staff / Students 27483.2.5.4 Risk Management Office 274

83.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 27483.2.6.1 Seating 27583.2.6.2 Workstations 27583.2.6.3 Computing Equipment 27683.2.6.4 Access Spaces 27683.2.6.5 Lighting 27683.2.6.6 Other Ergonomic Considerations 276

83.3 Preventing Occupational Overuse Injuries 27683.3.1 Purpose 27683.3.2 Application 27783.3.3 Legislation 27783.3.4 References 27783.3.5 Responsibilities 277

83.3.5.1 Department Managers and Supervisors 27783.3.5.2 Occupational Health Unit 27783.3.5.3 Counselling Services 27783.3.5.4 Sport and Physical Recreation Centre 27783.3.5.5 Risk Management Office 27783.3.5.6 Staff / Students 277

83.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 27883.3.6.1 Understanding Occupational OveruseSyndrome

278

83.3.6.2 Preventing Occupational Overuse Injuries 27883.3.6.3 VDUs and Radiation 279

84 Medical Services 27984.1 Medical Surveillance Programs 279


84.1.5.1 Occupational Health Service 27984.1.5.2 Risk Management Office 27984.1.5.3 Managers and Supervisors 28084.1.5.4 All Employees 280

xxxii


84.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines 28084.1.6.1 Requirements to Disclose Information 28084.1.6.2 Services of Occupational Health 28084.1.6.3 Other Health Issues 281

84.2 Provision of First Aid Facilities 28284.2.1 Purpose 28284.2.2 Application 28284.2.3 Legislation 28284.2.4 References 28284.2.5 Responsibilities 282

84.2.5.1 Head of Department 28284.2.5.2 Nominee (Usually BEC) 28284.2.5.3 Supervisor 28284.2.5.4 First Aid Personnel 28284.2.5.5 Staff and Students 283

84.2.6 Procedure and Guidelines 28384.2.6.1 Provision of First Aid Kits 28384.2.6.2 Guidelines for Assessment 28484.2.6.3 Sample Assessment for an administrative area 28584.2.6.4 Sample Assessment for a Laboratory Area 285

84.3 Provision of First Aid Treatment 28684.3.1 Purpose 28684.3.2 Application 28684.3.3 Legislation 28684.3.4 References 28684.3.5 Responsibilities 286

84.3.5.1 Head of Department / Supervisors 28684.3.5.2 First Aid Personnel 28684.3.5.3 Staff and Students 287

84.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 28784.3.6.1 Minor / Moderate Incidents 28784.3.6.2 Major Incident During Work Hours 28784.3.6.3 After Hours Incidents (after 5:00pm) 28784.3.6.4 Off Campus Incidents 287

85 WorkCover 28785.1 Occupational Rehabilitation Policy 287

85.1.1 Introduction 28785.1.2 Definitions 28885.1.3 Return to Work Policy 28885.1.4 Return to Work Coordinator 28885.1.5 Entitlements 28885.1.6 Occupational Rehabilitation Plan 288

85.1.6.1 Rehabilitation Providers 28985.1.7 Role of Staff 28985.1.8 Role of Supervisors 29085.1.9 Length of Rehabilitation Program 290

xxxiii


85.1.10 Offers of Employment 29085.1.11 Assistance to Departments 29185.1.12 Risk Management Office 29185.1.13 Confidentiality 291

85.2 Rehabilitation for Occupational Injury or Illness 29185.2.1 Purpose 29185.2.2 Application 29185.2.3 Legislation 29185.2.4 References 29185.2.5 Definitions 29185.2.6 Responsibilities 292

85.2.6.1 Return to Work Coordinator 29285.2.6.2 Departmental Managers 29285.2.6.3 All Employees 292

85.2.7 Procedure and Guidelines 29385.2.7.1 Alternative Suitable Employment 29385.2.7.2 Rehabilitation Fund 29385.2.7.3 Payments and Leave 29385.2.7.4 Choice of Medical Provider 29385.2.7.5 Medical and Related Expenses 29485.2.7.6 Occupational Rehabilitation Program 29485.2.7.7 Return to Work 294

85.3 What is WorkCover? 29485.3.1 Purpose 29485.3.2 Application 29485.3.3 Legislation 29485.3.4 References 29485.3.5 Responsibilities 294

85.3.5.1 Risk Management 29485.3.5.2 Head of Department 29585.3.5.3 All Employees 295

85.3.6 Procedure and Guidelines 29585.3.6.1 Definitions 296

86 Control of Noise 29686.1 Purpose 29686.2 Application 29686.3 Legislation 29686.4 References 297

86.4.1 Definitions 29786.5 Responsibilities 297

86.5.1 Head of Department 29786.5.2 Supervisor 29786.5.3 Health and Safety Representative 29786.5.4 Employees 29786.5.5 Risk Management Office 298

xxxiv


86.6 Procedure and Guidelines 29886.6.1 Noise risk Identification Assessment and Control 29886.6.2 Sample Noise Control Plan 29886.6.3 Hierarchy of Control 29986.6.4 Selection and use of Hearing Protection 29986.6.5 Audiological Examinations 29986.6.6 Hearing Protection Signage 30086.6.7 Controlling Environmental Noise 30086.6.8 Controlling Nuisance Noise 300

Appendix A Forms 301A1 Incident Report 301A2 Quick Reference Sheet 301A3 Training Requirements for EHS 301A4 Office / Workstation Environment / Safety Inspection 301A5 Laboratory Environment / Safety Inspection 301A6 Workshop Environment / Safety Inspection 301A7 Risk Assessment 2D Model 301A8 Risk Assessment 3D Model 301A9 Poisons Control Plan 301A10 Fume Cupboard Clearance for Inspection, Maintenanceand Repairs

301

A11 Disposal of Hazardous Wastes 301A12 Plant Hazard Identification 301A13 Phone Threat 302A14 Conducting Emergency Drills 302A15 Manual Handling Identification 302A16 First Aid Information 302A17 First Aid Assessment Form 302A18 Keyboard Workstation Assessment Checklist 302A19 After Hours Person or Equipment Form 302A20 Noise Hazard Identification 302A21 Incident Reporting Flow Chart 302A22 Chemical Assessment 302A23 Medical Questionnaire for Off Campus Activities 302A24 Overseas Travel Guidelines 302A25 Communication Plan Legionella 302A26 EHS Review Schedule Cyclic Events Checklist 303

Appendix B Attachments 305B1 Records Management 305

xxxv


B2 Internal Audit Schedule 305B3 Academic Environmental, and Health & SafetyRepresentatives

305

B4 Administrative Area Environmental, and Health & SafetyRepresentatives

307

B5 Fume Cupboard Clearance Contacts 310B6 Ergonomic Design Standards 310B7 Information on Environment Health and SafetyNoticeboards

310

Appendix C Legislation 311C1 Agricultural Chemicals 311C2 Amenity 311C3 Autoclave 311C4 Backflow Prevention 311C5 Biohazards 311

C5.1 Disease Organims 311C5.1.1 Airborne 311C5.1.2 To Land 311

C5.2 Plant Disease 311C5.3 Soil Disease 311

C6 Bunding 311C7 Carcinogens 311C8 CFCs 311C9 Chemicals disposal 311C10 Contamination 312

C10.1 Land 312C10.2 Liability 312C10.3 Management 312

C11 Control and Storage of Hazardous Materials 312C12 Cooling Towers 312C13 Deionised Water 312C14 Discharge Regulation 312

C14.1 Internal 312C14.1.1 Occupational Health and Safety Act 1985 (Vic) 312

C14.2 External 312

xxxvi

Legislation Contents

C14.2.1 Environment Protection Act 1970 (Vic) 312C14.2.1.1 To air 312C14.2.1.2 To Water 312C14.2.1.3 To Land 313C14.2.1.4 Noise 313C14.2.1.5 Odours 313C14.2.1.6 Ozone depleting Substances 313

C14.2.2 Civil Law Liability 313C15 Dust 313C16 Electromagnetic Radiation 313C17 Erosion 313C18 Fieldwork 314C19 Firefighting 314C20 Fume Cupboards 314C21 Fungicides 314C22 Genetically Modified Organisms 314

C22.1 Environment Protection Act 1970 (Vic) 314C22.1.1 Pollution 314C22.1.2 Further Information 315

C23 Greenhouse Gases 315C24 Groundwater 315

C24.1 Use 315C24.2 Contamination 315C24.3 Leachates 315

C25 Hazardous Material 315C25.1 Disposal and Transportation 315

C25.1.1 Environment Protection Act (1970) 315C25.2 Dangerous Goods Act 315

C25.2.1 Handling & Packaging 315C25.2.2 Labeling 315C25.2.3 Storage 315C25.2.4 Transportation 316

C26 HCFCs 316C27 Herbicides 316C28 Heritage 316

C28.1 Movable Cultural Heritage 316C28.1.1 Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986(Cwth)

316

C28.2 National Estate 317C28.2.1 Australian Heritage Commission Act 1976 (Cwth) 317

C28.2.1.1 Buildings on Parkville Campus on withNational Estate Status

317

xxxvii


C28.3 Heritage Register 317C28.3.1 Heritage Act 1995 (Vic) 317

C28.3.1.1 Buildings on Parkville Campus on HeritageRegister

317

C28.4 Buildings 318C28.5 Indigenous Cultural Heritage 318C28.6 Landscapes 318

C29 Intractable Waste 318C30 Labelling 318

C30.1 Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals 318C30.1.1 The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals(Control of Use) Act 1992 (Vic)

318

C30.1.1.1 Offences 318C30.1.1.2 Penalty 318

C30.1.2 Premises 318C30.1.3 Storage of Materials 319C30.1.4 Dangerous Goods & Hazardous Substances 319

C31 Landfill 319C32 Land Management 319

C32.1 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994(Vic) 319C32.1.1 General duties of land owners 319C32.1.2 Contents of a notice 319C32.1.3 Offence to disobey notice 320

C32.2 Pests 320C32.2.1 Catchment and Land protection Act 1994 (Vic) 320

C32.2.1.1 Weeds 320C32.2.1.2 Pests 322

C33 Land Use Planning 323C33.1 Background 323C33.2 Planning and Envrionment Act 1987 (Vic) 323C33.3 Planning Schemes 324

C33.3.1 Introduction 324C33.3.2 Overlays 324C33.3.3 Application of planning scheme 325C33.3.4 Enforcement 326

C33.3.4.1 Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Vic) 326C33.4 Further Information 326C33.5 The University of Melbourne 327

C33.5.1 Specific Provisions 327C33.5.2 Zone 327C33.5.3 Scope of Activities 327C33.5.4 Applicable Overlays and Controls 327C33.5.5 Relevant Planning Permits 327

C34 Litter 328C34.1 Litter Act 1987 328

xxxviii

Legislation Contents

C35 Nature Conservation 329C36 Noise 329C37 Noxious Weeds 329C38 Nutrients 329C39 Ozonedepleting Substances 329C40 Pesticides 329

C40.1 Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control ofUse) Act 1992

329

C40.1.1 Offence to use without certificate 330C40.1.2 Application of relevant chemicals 330C40.1.3 Damage by spray drift 330C40.1.4 Regulations made under the Act 330

C40.2 Civil Liability 331C41 Pests 331C42 Planning 331C43 Plant Disease 331C44 Polyacrylamide Gels 331C45 Pressure Vessels 331

C45.1 Transportation 331C46 Quarantine 331C47 Radiation 331C48 Recycling 375C49 Resource Usage 375C50 Salinity 375C51 Sewage 375C52 Soil Conservation 375C53 Soil Disease 375C54 Smoke 375C55 Spills 375C56 Stromeyerite 375C57 Suspended Solids 375C58 Town and Country Planning 376C59 Trade Waste 376

C59.1 Regulation 401 of the Water Industry Regulations1995 (Vic)

376

C59.1.1 Trade Waste Definition 376C59.1.2 Trade Waste Agreements 377

C59.1.2.1 City West Water Parkville Campus 377C59.1.3 Trade Waste Quality Requirements 377C59.1.4 Enforcement 378

C60 Transgenic Organisms 379

xxxix


C61 Underground Storage Tanks 379C62 Urban Planning 379C63 Vehicle Exhaust Emissions 379C64 Waste Disposal 379

C64.1 Intractable Waste 379C64.2 Landfill 379

C64.2.1 Disposal of material 379C64.2.2 Management 379C64.2.3 Subcontractors accreditation 380

C65 Waste minimisation 380C66 Water Supply 380

C66.1 Standards 380C66.2 Liability for interference with water supply 380C66.3 Water Restrictions 380

C67 Weeds 380

xl

Environment Health and Safety Manual

Chapter 1. Introduction to Environment Health andSafety

11 Introduction to the Environment Health and Safety ManualSince 1996, The University of Melbourne has embarked upon two new initiatives formanaging health and safety of its staff, students, visitors and environment.

The first initiative has been participation in achievement of the Victorian WorkcoverAuthoritys (VWA) SafetyMAP (Safety Management Achievement Program). This is astructured approach to providing an environment that is safe and without risks to health foremployees, students and visitors.

As a result there has been an increased focus on the individual contributions to maintainingthe integrity of the Universitys OHS Policy.

The second initiative has been a consideration of the Universitys impact on theenvironment resulting in an initial environmental impact study, which was conducted in1997. In line with SafetyMAP, a management system has been chosen as the mostappropriate vehicle in which to manage our environmental impact. Recommendation toseek accreditation of a University Environmental Management System (EMS) to the ISO14001 was accepted by council in December, 1997.

In December 1999 The University commenced implementation of a compliance programbased on the Australian Standard for Compliance Programs AS 3806. In this context boththe SafetyMAP and EMS are integrated sections of the total compliance program.

The EHS manual now reflects a system of people and environment safety within whichwork units of the University operate. The Risk Management Office maintains coordinationof the central management of both systems. The EHS manual has been structured tosupport this central coordination role. The web based University of Melbourne Environment,Health & Safety (EHS) Manual now supports both systems. Notification of updates will also occur electronically with details of version controlprocedures detailed in section 1.6.2 of this manual. The manual should be used as theprimary EHS manual for all departments, who may supplement this manual with specificwork instructions relating to particular procedures. Details of integrating local workinstructions into the EHS manual structure can also be found in section 1.6.2 of thismanual.

The manual has been divided into 8 sections:

Section 1. Introduction to Environment Health and Safety

Section 1 provides the guiding structure for the EHS manual. The OHS and Environmentpolicies are the basis upon which the management structures of SafetyMAP and the EMSoperate. A description of these management systems is provided along with supportingprocedures for document and data control and records management. Environment, Healthand Safety Legislation is a major driving force for the establishment of many of thepolicies and procedures within the manual. As a result details on how these legal issuesare addressed is provided in this prominent section.

Section 2 Structure and Responsibility

An essential requirement of these systems of control is identifying the structure theUniversity has adopted in which to make policy decisions and within these policies, staffand student responsibilities. Responsibilities of the Risk Management Office (RMO);Occupational Health and Safety Committee (OHSC) and the Environment Advisory

The University of Melbourne THE RISK MANAGEMENT OFFICE EHS Manual AMENDMENTS

Committee (EAC) are also described in this section. The procedures detailing staff andstudent responsibilities have been developed in conjunction with Human Resources. Section 3 Identification, Assessment and Control

An important focus of Safety and Environment Management Systems is the use of therisk management methodology to identify and then control potential safety andenvironmental risks. Section 3 provides guidelines for the systematic identification,assessment and control of people and safety hazards and possible negative impacts onthe environment.

Section 4 Communication and Reporting

Section 4 provides details of the mechanisms for effective communication of problems asthey occur and providing information about the processes within which we operate forpeople and environment safety.

Section 5 Environment and Safety in the Workplace

Section 5 details Workplace safety information provided along the guidelines of AustralianStandard 2243 Safety in Laboratories. Updates have included a focus on issues ofenvironmental concern, such as our responsibilities to ensure waste generated by theUniversity is disposed of appropriately.

Section 6 Emergency Response

A system of effective emergency response has been developed specific to the Universitysneeds arising from both a diverse geographical location and business activities. Section 6provides details of these procedures.

Section 7 Specialised Hazards

A number of highrisk activities particular to aspects of the University operation haverequired a separate section. It is intended that where particular activities pose significantrisks to the University population, they will be addressed in this section.

Section 8 Occupational Health

Personal health issues are the focus provided in this section. Services provided when aninjury occurs are also detailed. Please forward any comments regarding this manual to the Manager, Risk ManagementOffice or email [email protected].

Manager, Risk Management Office

12 Occupational Health & Safety Policy

12.1 Purpose To define the responsibility of the University for Occupational Health and Safety.

12.2 ApplicationThis Policy applies to all staff, students, visitors, contractors etc. in the Universityenvironment.

12.3 LegislationOccupational Health and safety Act 1985

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Introduction to Environment Health and Safety Environment Health and Safety Manual

12.4 ReferencesStanding General Resolution of Council No: 3.40

12.5 Occupational Health and Safety Policy

12.5.1 CommitmentThe University recognises its obligation to take all reasonable precautions to provide andmaintain so far as is practicable, an environment that is safe and without risks to healthfor employees, students and visitors.

12.5.2 Safety Objectives2.1 The absence or minimisation of risk also includes occupational health in theprevention of accidental exposure to agents which may cause occupational diseases. Thusergonomics, industrial hygiene, toxicology, biological safety and radiation safety are allpart of the Universitys safety management programs.

2.2 To meet its obligations and to ensure legislative compliance, the University hasdeveloped a safety management program, using the principles of quality and riskmanagement which aims to:

(a) observe and implement relevant statutory requirements; (b) promote workplace safety by education, information, instruction and training; (c) ensure that adequate instruction is given to employees in safe workingprocedures and that they are informed of any hazard to their health which is known to beassociated with work, including offcampus activities in which they are engaged;

(d) ensure that situations or work practices which are unsafe or harmful arereported immediately to the supervisor of the employee or student, so that corrective actioncan be taken;

(e) encourage each person in the University to regard accident prevention as anindividual responsibility;

(f) require the head of each academic and administrative department to applyrelevant Policies and Procedures of the University, as published in the Environment Healthand Safety Manual, to the specific needs of the Department, including where students orstaff are located at another site in consultation with staff of the Risk Management Officeand local staff;

(g) establish procedures to check Environment Health and Safety (EHS)standards in any other location or country that staff or students may be working;

(h) require that every hazardous incident in the University is reported and, whereappropriate investigated, and ensure any action necessary to reduce further risk isimplemented;

(i) establish procedures to minimise the risk of harmful effects of fire, explosion,radiation, biological hazards and chemical release and ensure these procedures areregularly monitored;

(j) maintain (in the workplace) proper control of harmful substances (i.e.chemicals, radiation, fire hazards, biological hazards etc.), air pollution and noise; (k) establish procedures for the evacuation of buildings in the event of fire,explosion or other emergencies and ensure those procedures are appropriately tested;

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(l) ensure that machines and equipment are maintained in a safe condition andthat necessary personal protective devices are available in the workplace;

(m) provide adequate occupational health services and monitoring programs; (n) maintain proper control over the storage, use and disposal of hazardoussubstances and dangerous goods;

(o) post clearly visible signs and notices as required; (p) ensure that adequate professionally trained staff are available to coordinateand supervise the Universitys safety management program.

12.5.3 Responsibilities For SafetySafety is the concern of all employees and, in addition, certain groups within the Universitycommunity have specific responsibilities.

3.1 Staff with specific responsibilities

The following staff are responsible for occupational health and safety inaccordance with the requirements set out in Section 2.3 of the University of MelbourneEnvironment Health and Safety Manual ("the EHS Manual") as amended from time totime.

* Senior Executive Managers, Deans and Heads of Academic andAdministrative Departments;

* Managers and Section Heads;

* Academic Staff;

* Supervisors (any person who controls or directs others); * Staff with special safety duties such as building emergency controllers,radiation safety officers, biological safety officers, emergency team members, electedhealth and safety representatives.

And, in addition to the requirements of section 2.3 of the Manual, these staff:

(a) are required, in association with appropriate personnel and the RiskManagement Office, to formulate and promulgate specific safety rules for activitiesconducted within areas under their control;

(b) are responsible for reporting to the ViceChancellor any aspects under theircontrol which cannot meet safety requirements within the resources provided.

3.2 Employees

All employees (including those employees referred to in paragraph 3.1 above) are tocomply with the EHS Manual generally and in accordance with section 2.3 of thatManual.

And, in addition employees:

(a) must take all reasonable care for their own health and safety and that ofothers who may be affected by their conduct at the workplace;

(b) must no wilfully or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in theinterests of health and safety or welfare and must cooperate with the University inrelation to actions taken by the University to comply with occupational health and safetylegislation;

(c) must not wilfully place at risk the health or safety of any person in theworkplace.

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3.3 Students

All students are to comply with the EHS Manual generally, and in particular, inaccordance with paragraph 2.4 of that Manual.

And, In addition students:

(a) are responsible for adopting safe work and study practices; (b) must not wilfully place at risk the health or safety of any person at theUniversity;

(c) must not wilfully or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in theinterests of health and safety or welfare at the University and are responsible for adoptingsafe work and study practices.

3.4 Contractors

All contractors are required to undergo appropriate induction training. Contractorsmust adhere to all contractual requirements of the University in relation tooccupational health and safety in addition to the Universitys occupational health andsafety requirements specified in the EHS Manual.

3.5 Visitors

Visitors are required to comply with all instructions given by authorised Universitystaff for the protection of their health and safety whilst on University premises.

12.5.4 Consultation

The University is committed to encouraging consultation and cooperation betweenmanagement and employees. For this purpose, it has established an Occupational Healthand Safety Committee ("the OHS Committee) which in turn encourages the election ofemployee health and safety representatives who are consulted and involved in anyworkplace changes which could affect health and safety.

This policy will be reviewed every three years by the Occupational Health and SafetyCommittee, as part of the EHS Manual review.

The OHS Committee meets at least four times per year.

13 Environmental PolicyGuiding Value

The University of Melbourne, in its role as an international teaching and research basedUniversity offering undergraduate and postgraduate education, is committed to embracingenvironmental management goals within University activities. These goals willextend to providing community leadership on environmental issues through quality researchand education programs and to the provision of expert advice on environmental matters ofpublic interest.

Academic Programs

The University recognises its role in educating future leaders who will be in a position tomake decisions enhancing Australias environmental sustainability. As the University playsa part in moulding environmental values, Faculty Deans will be responsible forensuring that programs are made available to enable students and staff to be aware ofand to actively support environmental education programs and research.

Environmental Impact Reduction

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Programs and quantitative targets will be established to minimise pollution and to meetprincipal environmental challenges including improved efficiency of resource use,minimising waste generation and reducing discharges to the environment from Universityactivities.

Management and Reporting

The University is committed to developing and sustaining a fully documentedEnvironmental Management System (EMS) in compliance with ISO 14001. This systemwill provide the framework to comply with legislative requirements, contractual obligationsand the measurement of continual improvement targets and outcomes. The Universityaspires to be an exemplary model for other institutions. The ViceChancellor will report toCouncil on environmental performance at least twice yearly, and will provide an annualenvironmental report available to the public.

Communication and Involvement

The involvement of regulatory authorities, suppliers, contractors, academic colleagues,students and community groups will be sought in documenting and achieving environmentalobjectives and targets. The University supports the promotion of environmental awarenesswithin the wider community.

Accountabilities

The ViceChancellor is accountable for communication of this policy and for compliancewith its undertakings. A Senior Executive Officer of the University will ensure effectiveimplementation, management and monitoring of the environmental management systemand its subsequent outcomes. Heads of budget divisions will provide necessary support forenvironmental plans within their areas. The University will provide for staff and students ofthe University community a process for identifying and managing environmental risksassociated with their activities.

14 Environment Health and Safety Objectives14.1 Purpose

This procedure describes the process for the establishment of environmental and safetyobjectives and the processes existing at the University of Melbourne for the continualassessment of environmental, and health & safety objectives for currency.

14.2 ApplicationObjectives are set and reviewed in line with the current Occupational Health and Safetyand Environment Policies and in view of the current activities undertaken by the University.Introduction to management systems EHSM 1.6.1 provides background information for themanagement system structures within which environment heath and safety objectives andtargets are developed.

14.3 LegislationOccupational Health and Safety Act 1985

Environment Protection Act 1970

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14.4 ReferencesAS/NZS ISO 14001: 1996 Environmental Management Systems

AS/NZS 4804: 1997 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems

Introduction to Management Systems (EHSM 1.6.1) Records Management (EHSM 1.6.3) Occupational Health and Safety Committee (EHSM 2.2) Environmental Advisory Committee (EHSM 2.3) Hazard Identification, Assessment and Control (EHSM Section 3) Incident and Hazard Reporting (EHSM 4.2) Definitions

Continual Improvement (AS/NZS 4804, AS/NZS ISO 14001) process of enhancing theoccupational health and safety / environmental management system to achieveimprovements in overall environmental performance in line with the organizations OHSand environmental policy

Occupational Health and Safety Policy (AS/NZS 4804) statement by the organisation ofits intentions and principles in relation to its overall occupational health and safetyperformance which provides a framework for action and for the setting of its occupationalhealth and safety objectives and targets Environmental Policy (AS/NZS ISO 14001) Statement by the organization of itsintentions and principles in relation to its overall environmental performance which providesa framework for action and for the setting of its environmental objectives and targets Environmental Objectives (AS/NZS ISO 14001) overall environmental goal, arising fromthe environmental policy, that an organization sets itself to achieve, and which isquantified where practicable

Environmental Target (AS/NZS ISO 14001) measurable results of the environmentalmanagement system, related to an organizations control of its environmental aspects,based on its environmental policy, objectives and targets

14.5 ResponsibilitiesEnvironment Advisory Committee ( EHSM 2.2 ) Occupational Health and Safety Committee ( EHSM 2.3) Risk Management Office (EHS 2.2.1)

14.6 Procedure and Guidelines

14.6.1 Overview of Objectives and TargetsEstablishing and reviewing objectives extends the risk management process of theSafetyMAP and Environmental Management System detailed in EHSM section 3 hazardIdentification, assessment and control. The Risk Management Office centrally collectsthis information via the processes detailed in Incident and Hazard Reporting (EHSMProcedure 4.2). The Risk Management Process provides the information of safety hazardsand environmental aspects upon which the management systems are built. Established

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objectives and targets are the dynamic framework that support this information databaseas it expands to include all work units at the University of Melbourne.

14.6.2 Information used for the establishment of Objectives and TargetsConsideration of EHS Issues and Incidents

The Risk Management Office maintains a register of all reported safety hazards andincidents. Regular incidents statistical reports are provided to departmental and facultyEHS committees for consideration and action. The Occupational Health and SafetyCommittee, and the Environment Advisory Committee receive minutes of department andfaculty EHS committee meetings. Issues of global University concern are assessed by theRisk Management Office and included as agenda items at the next available OHSC orEAC meeting.

Establishing and monitoring environmental objectives and targets The Risk Management Office (RMO) provides central coordination for all input andinformation relevant to the environmental management system. This includes allinformation regarding environmental aspects and concerns. The associated responsibilitiesof the RMO are detailed in EHSM section 2.1. Performance of individuals is monitoredthrough performance appraisals, refer to EHSM section 2.5 EHS Training andCompetence.

Incoming environmental aspects from departments participating in the EMS

Identification, Assessment and Control (Section 3 EHSM), details the process by whichenvironmental aspects are identified and their impacts assessed. This information isforwarded to the Risk Management Office according to Incident and Hazard reporting(EHSM Section 4.2). The Risk Management Office has the following responsibilities upon receipt of riskassessed environmental aspects and their associated impacts:

Inspection of the risk rating for consistency with similar University activitiespreviously risk rated.

Adding environmental aspects to the University Aspect Register.

Submitting ranked environmental aspects to relevant sub committees or workinggroups of the EAC for further action.

Incoming concerns from all other areas of the University Community

Communication (EHSM Procedure 1.6.5) provides details of the available routes by whichall interested parties may submit issues of environmental concern or interest. The RMOmaintains a register for all environmental requests and concerns received by the University.Relevant issues are forwarded to sub committees or working groups of the EAC forconsideration.

Environmental Assessments

The EAC and/or the RMO undertake environmental assessments to provide relevant up todate information regarding the Universities position on a number of environmental issues.RMO facilitates the submission of this information to the relevant sub committees andworking groups of the EAC.

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14.6.3 Requirements of the EAC and its sub committees and working groupsThe Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) is responsible for the endorsement ofUniversity environmental objectives and targets. EAC subcommittees are responsible forannually proposing University environmental objectives and targets to the EAC and thenimplementing and managing those University environmental objectives and targets that areendorsed. (Details of these responsible units can be found in 1.6.1 introduction tomanagement systems.) Information regarding environmental impacts supplied to theseworking groups for assessment during the objective review process is assessed primarily forthe management responsibility of its associated environmental aspect. Annualendorsement of objectives and targets occurs at the first EAC meeting of the year. Objectives and Targets Checklist A number of issues must be considered before objectives and targets are submitted to theEAC for endorsement. Documentation of this process occurs via completion of theobjectives and targets check list, which must be endorsed by the chair (or equivalent) ofthe sub committee, working group or affiliated body. The following information providesguidelines for the completion of the objectives and targets checklist. The form is dividedinto three sections.

Section One

The first section of the form provides document control information. The completed recordis maintained according to Records Management (EHSM procedure 1.6.3) Section Two: Significant and high frequency Environmental Aspects/Impacts

Section two deals with the consideration of environmental aspects submitted to the RMOfrom departments participating in the University EMS. This section follows directly fromhazard identification, assessment and control application (EHSM procedure 3.2) andincident and hazard reporting (EHSM procedure 4.2). The management responsibility ofincoming environmental aspects is assessed at this stage.

2A Significant and high frequency Environmental Aspects/Impacts table

All current significant environmental aspects must be considered when settingenvironmental objectives and targets. In addition all aspects other than significant aspectsreceived from the University departments are reviewed for the number of occurrences of aparticular aspect from similar activities both within and between locations. If theoccurrence is high these aspects must also be considered. When assessing environmentalaspects/impacts it is preferable that the process is supplemented by an interview with arepresentative from the relevant department / work unit from where the aspects havebeen submitted.

Significant and high frequency environmental aspects/impacts are described andconsidered as follows:

Questions i vi Each considered aspect is assigned an identification number for the purposes of thecurrent review

The location of the University department / work unit from which the aspect has beensubmitted is identified

The title, risk rating and number of occurrences of the aspect/impact by the submittingdepartment is noted

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Sighting of the relevant risk assessment and significant environmental impact forms arenoted.

Question (viii) provides information on the management responsibility of the environmentalaspect. If the management of the environmental aspect is considered:

a) a University issue, then questions (ix), the relevance of the aspect to the environmentalpolicy and (x), the integrity of the risk rating are completed. Section 2C is completed ifeither of the questions (ix) or (x) receive a no response. b) a departmental issue, then section 2B of the form is completed. This acknowledges thatthe committee has considered the individual departments control plan associated with theenvironmental aspect and provided the department with a review date. This decision mustalso be detailed in writing to the department responsible for the relevant environmentalaspect.

Section Three: Environmental objectives and targets considerations 3A.Environmental objectives and targets considerations table Environmental objectives and targets identified for submission to the EAC must bereviewed as follows:

Each identified environmental objective is: assigned an identification number, a title and a target(s) (i iii) considered for its consistency with the environmental policy and its continuity from theprevious year. Any relevant issues or concerns must be recorded in section 3B. (iv & v) considered for the impact of legislative requirements, technological options, financial andbusiness implications. Any relevant issues or concerns must be recorded in section 3B. (vi viii) considered in light of any relevant views of interested parties obtained from the register ofenvironmental requests and concerns. The Risk Management Office maintains a registerof environmental communications to facilitate this process. Any relevant issues orconcerns must be recorded in section 3B. (ix) 3B. Environmental objectives and targets consideration concerns table Issues of concern highlighted in the completion of table 3A must be documented in thissection, with detailed actions arising and date for review.

15 Legislation

15.1 Environmental Legislation

15.1.1 PurposeThis procedure describes the process by which the University of Melbourne identifies, hasaccess to and understands all legal and other requirements to which it subscribes, directlyattributable to the environmental aspects of its activities.

15.1.2 ApplicationDepartments and Faculties of the University involved in the University EnvironmentalManagement System ISO 14001 certification process.

15.1.3 Legislation

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15.1.4 ReferencesUniversity Compliance Manual

Lawlex Legislation Alert Service (RMO)ANSTAT Legislation Update Service (RMO) AS/NZS ISO 14001: 1996 Environmental Management Systems

Environment Protection Authority (EPA) (website) Environmental Health and Safety Objectives (EHS Procedure1.5) Occupational Health and Safety Committee (EHS Procedure 2.2) Hazard identification, assessment and control introduction (EHS Procedure 3.1) Hazard identification, assessment and control application (EHS Procedure 3.2) Incident and Hazard Reporting (EHS Procedure 4.2) Environmental Legislation (EHSAppendix C) Other Information University of Melbourne Environmental Aspects Register

15.1.5 ResponsibilitiesRefer to Environment Health and Safety Manual Procedure 2.4.2 Staff Responsibility forEnvironment and Safety.

15.1.6 Procedure and Guidelines

15.1.6.1 Identification of relevant legal and other requirements

All environmental aspects submitted to the risk management office are included in theUniversity Environmental Legislation Manual (EHS Appendix C). Environmental aspectsare identified via Hazard identification, assessment and control application (EHSProcedure 3.2) and reporting requirements detailed in Incident and Hazard Reporting (EHS Procedure 4.2). During the assessment of environmental impacts via, Hazardidentification, assessment and control application (EHS Procedure 3.2), theenvironmental legislation manual is consulted as well as other information sourcesreviiewed by the RMO. Environmental impact risk assessments are made in light of thelegislative information contained within the environment legislation manual, andinformation maintained by the RMO.

15.1.6.2 Management of legal and other requirements

All identified environmental aspects and impacts are reviewed by RMO, for evaluatingcompliance and implications to the EMS. This information is subject to annual review andincluded in the environmental legislation manual if applicable.

15.1.6.3 Monitoring of changes to legal and other requirements

The risk management office is responsible for the contracting of an update legal servicethat provides notification for environmental legislative changes applicable to activities andoperations of the University of Melbourne. The Environment Project Officer monitorsinformation from regulatory bodies, such as the Environment Protection Authority tosupplement this process. The Risk Management Office quality system assigns individualresponsibilities for all EHS manual procedures. The assessment of implications oflegislative changes on EHS manual procedures resides with the individual responsible forthat procedure. If procedural changes are required the process detailed in procedure forprocedure (EHS procedure 1.6.4) must be followed. The assessment of implications of

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legislative changes resulting in the requirement to create an EHS manual procedure resideswith the Environmental Project Officer in conjunction with the Risk Management Office.Again if procedural changes are required the process detailed in procedure for procedure(EHS procedure 1.6.4) must be followed. Procedure for procedure (EHS procedure 1.6.4)identifies the University Occupational Health and Safety Committee as the authoritativebody for the endorsement of all changes to the Environment Health and Safety Manual.

15.1.6.4 Communication of relevant information on legal and other requirements

Departments and faculties participating in the environmental management system arerequired to consult with the RMO and the Environmental Legislation Manual (EHSAppendix C) when undertaking Hazard identification, assessment and control application(EHS Procedure 3.2) of environmental impacts. The EHS manual procedures specifyassociated legal requirements for a comprehensive list of University activities. Updates toEHS manual procedures are notified to the University community as detailed in documentand data control (EHS Procedure 1.6.2).

15.2 Occupational Health and Safety Legislation

15.2.1 Introduction to OHS LegislationPlease find below a list of relevant Environment, Health and Safety legislation. The RiskManagement Office maintains a