16 How to change cultural attitudes towards bushfires
16 ASMm October 2009 How to change cultural attitudes towards bushfires Taking Mine Safety To China New degree to meet demand for safety professionals S.I.A. WA DIVISION www.siawa.org.au Give your SAFETY ADVISOR a break ... ! Ask Industrial Hygiene Management for help. What is Occupational Hygiene? How can a Hygienist assist? Get the answers and know the value of a specialist Occupational Hygienist in your workplace for: ü ü ü ü ü Noise Asbestos Heat stress Chemicals CONTAM Industrial Hygiene Management is committed to worker wellbeing, pursuing Best Practice systems and adopting a consultative approach to build trust and deliver workable hygiene management solutions. ü ü ü ü Alcohol and other drug testing Respirator face fit testing Air monitoring Health risk assessments ... and much more Discuss your needs today on 08 9367 7808 Why not call now or visit www.ihm.com.au INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE M A N A G E M E N T Cover story: How to change cultural attitudes towards bushfires Taking mine safety to China 4 12 2009 OHS Conference 16 Drug Feature: Turn to the experts on drugs and alcohol in the workplace 26 Safety Institute of Western Australia Committee Members Produced by the Safety Institute of Western Australia Publishing support by Media Support Services Editorial and design: Media Support Services Executive Editor: Gavin Waugh Managing Editor: Howard Wilcockson Advertising: Doug Sheppard Tel: 9427 0848 Editorial contact: 1300 557 660 [email protected] Executive Officer Ron Adams PO Box 8463, Perth Business Centre, WA 6849 36 Brisbane Street, Perth Tel: 08 9427 0848 Fax: 08 9427 0849 email: [email protected] President Gavin Waugh (2008/10) 0409 295 781 [email protected] 19 Maquire Way BULLCREEK WA 6149 Vice President Alan Meagher (2008/10) 0408 990 335 [email protected]' Secretary Bruce Campbell (2009/11) 0409 947 457 [email protected] Treasurer Gary Phillips (2009/11) 0400 129 144 [email protected] National Rep Dr Janis Jansz (2008/10) 0404 917 063 [email protected] Publications Team Leader Dave Skinner (2008/10) 0461 405 805 [email protected] Membership Team Leader Tanya Adams (2009/11) 0417 961 973 [email protected] Committee Tommy Adebayo (2009/11) 0421 409 711 [email protected] Welfare Officer Tanya Barrett (2009/11) [email protected] Liz Wallis-Long (2009/11) 0450 585 109 [email protected] Technical Team Leader Grant Mandragona (2008/10) 0438 010 730 [email protected] Amy Lochowicz (2009/11) 0400 994 942 [email protected] SW branch organiser Berni Cameron (2009/11) 0417 180 662 [email protected] NW branch organiser Colin Steer (2008/10) 0427 785 342 [email protected] Craig Ralph (2009/11) 0407 935 300 [email protected] Adrian Flower (2009/11) 0448 876 761 [email protected] Jo Covich, (2008/10) 0419 833 760 [email protected] President’s comment From the President A Gavin Waugh [email protected] Mob: 0409 295 781 Safety Institute of Australia National Secretary WA Division President special thank you to all of you who have taken the time to express your excitement at the content of Safety Matters. I would also like to thank those of you who responded to our address records check with the last issue. “May I congratulate the WA Branch and the production team on a first class publication. I found it particularly informative and thankfully, free from highly academic debate about esoteric arguments to which there is no real world answer.” Greg (South Australia) And from John in the USA; “Congratulations to the team that have resurrected this publication, I have just read it from front to back and back to front, an excellent job, well done. The content is broad based, interesting and not just statistics and scientific goobly gook.” Congratulations to the WA division on being so proactive as to produce a good safety magazine. There surely would be no harm if WA found suitable sponsorship to go SE Asia wide. Gary (Vic) I saw your Safety matters magazine today and was very impressed. Can you tell me how I can obtain a regular copy and how to become a member of the Safety Institute? Hannelie (WA) These testimonials are examples of the frustrations that led to the initial creation of Safety Matters magazine. It is also heartening to know that from a WA-only start, we now also have an international following. Our only interest is to produce a magazine you want to read. Thankyou also for all the suggestions and material. We have received so much that we could fill the next three editions with quality info already. WA Events Write these dates into your diary now! For our 2010 breakfast series, we have already booked in; • Women in Safety events for; March 12; June 11 and September 10, • Safety Law events for; April 16; July 16 and Nov 12, • General series for Feb 26; Mar 26; April 30; May 28; June 25; Jul 30; Aug 27; Sep 24; Oct 29; Nov 26. • The WA Safety Conference will be in mid August. By the time you receive this magazine the WA committee will have completed its second Corporate Governance training course – this has been very popular with excess places taken up at discount rates by general members. We expect to be the first SIA division to have all its committee members having completed this valuable training. The National Front By the time this magazine is distributed the SIA National elections will be nearly over. Please make your vote count. This election may be the most critical in the history of the SIA for the future of the organisation. If you are not currently a member or have not kept your membership financial; please now visit www.sia.org.au/membership/ apply.aspx and ensure your eligibility. Recently SIAWA was privileged to have Roxayne West visit from the NSW division, here to explore the services WA provides to its members. I was gratified by this quote from her report. Our dilemma is in deciding what to exclude! It does make us weep that we cannot give you everything. Our major constraint is the amount of advertising received. As the advertising pays for the printing and distribution we ask for your help in identifying companies and members willing to support and sponsor the further expansion of this, your magazine. Please keep sending in your contributions, suggestions, advertising tips and testimonials. To further improve our service we are working to offer you the choice of electronic or hard copy in future editions. If you would like to receive future editions of Safety Matters in electronic format please email me your details so I can change your record. ([email protected]) SIAWA is now working up alliances with the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists (AIOH); Australasian Institute of Dangerous Goods Consultants (AIDGC) on top of the recent conference collaboration with IFAP. This is all part of our agenda of bringing together all the peripheral safety, health and injury prevention associations to a collaborative voice. We look forward to contact from any other like minded organisations who may care to join in for mutual benefit. With all this sharing we are now generating a ‘nice’ problem – that of having too many events available to our members. It won’t be long before we will have to start rating the quality of events to only have the best on offer. “After meeting with the WA committee members and seeing what they are achieving, I would like to be part of an Association that can model this, not only in NSW but throughout Australia.” The sole reason we could have attracted this commendation is because we live by our unwritten motto; ‘our members are the owners of this organisation and they are the key to our continued growth’. So if you are an SIA member visiting WA – please take the time to call me or one of our team so we can make you welcome. The contacts are all on our website. The latest membership count shows the SIA now has over 3,700 members nationally – a good number getting ever 2 S.I.A. closer to that needed to start having a real influence on the Australian safety politics agenda. On the international front; the SIA representative to the International Network of Safety and Health Professional Organisations (INSHPO) has been working diligently on transportability of membership and qualifications between countries. This is making “Eligibility for membership of the SIA” not only a term being more widely included in job applications but soon also to be useful in cross border safety work. Make your job more secure; be a member with a voice today! Visit. www.sia.org.au Letters R ef the article: ‘Going to work can be bad for your health’ in the last edition of Australian Safety Matters magazine: I took umbrage with the article’s analysis and parting comment that men account for some 68% of all serious claims and are therefore the careless gender. I have worked in the mining and construction industry for some years; prior to that with ex-Workcover prosecutors and as a consultant from Childcare Centres to Power-stations. The article, having just completed telling us that manufacturing, transport, agriculture, fishing and construction had a serious injury claim rate, higher than the national average of 14 per 1000 employed, then said the Finance & Insurance Industry had a “mere 3.1 serious claims per 1000” (sic). I would venture to say the manufacturing and finance/ insurance industries would both have a high proportion of female workers; certainly far higher than mining or construction. Yet one of these two industries (manufacturing) hits the top score at 27.6 claims per 1000 and the other (Finance/Insurance) hits the bottom score (3.1 per 1000 claims). This would suggest it is not the worker’s gender but the nature of the work and the inherent level of risk associated with it,that contributes to the serious injury/ claim rate! I would further suggest that construction, mining, agriculture and forestry have higher risk levels than manufacturing and finance/insurance or retail. If men were truly careless then surely the industries that were high risk (construction/mining/ agriculture) would outstrip (or at least equal) manufacturing (which has a far lower proportion of male workers. This rather “popsy review” does not describe the type/ category of these serious injuries (high energy short duration exposures OR low energy long duration exposures. T hanks for the copy of Safety Matters; well done, that’s all I can say! It was interesting to read the article on Cip - I reckon I’d run him a close second as the longest serving member of SIA, and like him I was privileged to have had Harold Greenwood -Thomas as a mentor. I may add, I was also fortunate to have had Eric Wigglesworth as a mentor. He got me to take over from him as a lecturer at the South 3 Perhaps a “risk based analysis” to the conclusions comparing the level of risk between those industries with high male populations (mining, construction, forestry, fishing etc) when compared with industries with higher female populations (manufacturing, finance, insurance, retail etc would have been more appropriate. Playing loosely with facts and being light hearted with analysis can turn fudgy figures into false perceptions of reality and eventually become embedded in the culture as truth. Andrew Colman National HSE Manager Fellow of the SIA.HSE Manager, Grad Dip Ergonomics M.App.Sc (OHS) Melbourne Tech certificate course; add to this he was my supervisor for my dissertation at Ballarat - a daunting experience! Basically the purpose of the email was not to talk about me but to say really well done on your magazine and it’s a pity that the other divisions don’t follow suit. Glyn Williams, Manager Risk Services How to change cultural attitudes towards bushfires – or a repeat of ‘Black Saturday’ is likely A ‘Community Fire Safety Culture Maturity Grid’ could be the answer! By Kelvin Blackney MASSE, FSIA, RSP (Aust) T he tragedy of Victoria’s ‘Black Saturday’ bushfire is highly likely to be repeated unless there are attitude changes whereby people take greater personal responsibility for fire preparedness. The Victorian Bushfire Royal Commission’s interim report released 17.8.09 with 51 recommendations http:// www.royalcommission.vic.gov.au/InterimReport is intended to be implemented before the 2009/10 bushfire season. If the recommendations are put into practice, there’s no doubt Victoria will be better prepared than on February 7 2009. An area of concern, however, is with Recommendation 7.2 that calls for more useful advice being given to people within bushfire prone areas and the CFA give consideration as to how it should advise residents about the defendability of their homes. The Safety Institute’s National Technical Panel made the point in its submission to the Victorian Bushfire Royal Commission on 18.5.09 that: “Consideration should be given to how a positive community fire safety culture can be developed in Victoria. Focused purpose needed Policies and pronouncements can’t achieve this alone, there must be practical evidence of a focused, collective purpose”. http://www.sia.org.au/news/updates/ rc_siasubmission.html. In essence we believe that going on past experiences not much is likely to be achieved unless there is a really sound system for involving and motivating people. • If the usual system is adopted some people will listen to the advice and take some action to improve the defendability of their homes. • Others will take insufficient precautions, or none at all, believing it’s just more bureaucratic interference, coupled with the mindset of “My home is my castle and I will guard the drawbridge”. We believe a system that properly engages the community to develop a ‘safety culture’ is the only way to change attitudes and get people to accept that they are in fact contributors to the response to a bushfire threat. A ‘culture maturity grid’ as follows should be distributed for people to complete and hand in so that a group statistical analysis can be made without casting reflections on any individual. Continued next page COMMUNITY FIRE SAFETY CULTURE MATURITY GRID 2009 Maturity Level VALUE 0-Ignorance 1-Entry Level 2-Novice 3-Mediocrity 4-Excellence 5-Perfection Value No 1 ESTABLISH PREVENTION IN BUSHFIRE PRONE AREAS There is widespread uncertainty about essential fire risk prevention Total Fire Ban day restrictions are adhered to. Media announcements and TFB signs are displayed. Planned fuel reduction burning is conducted in consultation within the community that it is intended to protect. Community/ visitors know if and where there are designated Community Fire Refuges or Emergency Shelters Reporting methods for the movements of suspect people or activities have a ‘feedback’ component. Both communities and visitors to fire prone areas are well informed of the bushfire risks and preventive strategies Value No 2 WE PREPARE FOR BUSHFIRES We don’t do anything specific to prepare for bushfires Spring cleaning outside is evident. Gutter cleaning, tree pruning and dried grass and leaves being racked up and removed. Walk around looking for and removing all ember attack entry point exposures is completed. Active defence equipment including independent water supply and delivery systems has been tested. Residential and out buildings are ready to withstand an ember attack if necessary without an active defence. We know exactly what we need to do to prepare for bushfires and we always do it. We have not formalized what people’s needs are or what fire equipment is available Neighbours talk about their preparations towards a defensible dwelling and where they are at with their efforts. Everyone participates in fire authority supported community bushfire safety meetings. Bushfire defensive strategies are widely sourced and decisions are made collectively within the community. Plans to help with vulnerable people, animals and pets have been considered with variability’s in extreme weather. Community support information is well known and kept up-todate on a community level internet network. All activities are tracked and recognized. Value No 4 WE DEVELOP AND SHARE OUR RESOURCES Whatever we do it is done in isolation to everyone else. Individual physical effort and capability limitations for actual fire defence activities, is made known for planning. Access to and use of neighbour’s water delivery equipment has been shown if the owner becomes unavailable any time. Neighbour’s homes that are easily defended have been assessed as a ‘place to relocate’ if the need arises. Where Residential Safe Fire Refuges exist in defensible dwellings, access limitations have been established. Our activities are continually driving us towards self reliance as a community. Value No 5 WE KNOW WHEN TO STAY AND DEFEND OR LEAVE EARLY. We have yet to develop our own bushfire plan. Plans to leave early to relocate have been made after considering our limitations and consequences. Local open spaces free of fuel and vegetation as safer locations has been factored into leave early and safe returning plans. Plans to stay and defend have been made after considering options and consequences. Everyone has resolved not to travel in a car while the area is likely to come under an ember attack. We review and practice our bushfire plan for simplicity and effectiveness continuously. BSP Workbook p 11-27 Value No 3 WE DRAW ON COMMUNITY SUPPORT Community Fireguard BSP Workbook P 8-10 4 Fire Safety and Emergency Training Technologies From page 4 The scorecards would provide an indication of the community’s ‘collective assessment of their preventive measures’ in place at that point in time. Feedback would then be presented in the form of percentage bar graphs to highlight shortcomings. The second step would be to develop a ‘Community Fire Safety Maturity Grid’. The residents within the community would again consider what’s needed to close the gaps for moving to a higher level of ‘organisational maturity’. BullsEye digital fire simulator Environmental - Economical Workplace Emergency Management cleaner, safer and smarter Save up to 97% of training costs Grid ready to go We have a Fire Safety Culture Maturity Grid fully developed and ready to go. It has been drafted as a guide, given the prevailing seasonal timing limitations before summer bushfire period. The residents would review the levels and take necessary steps as they believe appropriate. Developing their own ‘safety culture maturity grid’ would go way beyond an information session at the local community hall. The grid would enable everyone to see at a glance where they’re at and enable trained facilitators to support them in taking the appropriate levels of action. “What gets measured and rewarded, gets done”. (Larry Hansen www.12hsos.com) Will culture measurement help prevention? If previous use of these social concepts in the building and construction industry is anything to go by, it will. The outcomes of the ‘safety culture maturity grid’ introduced by the Launceston City Council in Tasmania and other industries in the US show that attitudes can be changed for favourable improvement if the right approach is taken. “Culture predicts performance” (Don Eckenfelder www.cuturethesos.com) Community Fire Culture scorecards and Fire Culture Maturity grids could be completed within weeks and with the community engaging in self reliance actions, most of the Royal Commission’s recommendations could be implemented promptly. Gas Detector Training System Footnote: Kelvin Blackney was a fireman in the 1960’s trained in aircraft crash and rescue and a member of the Lara Rural Fire Brigade. In January 1969. his township sustained significant fire losses. During mopping up operations he realised how close he’d come to losing everything and vowed he’d never let that happen again. At the beginning of every summer season he refines defendability requirements of his home as it applies to bushfires. In 1993 he was awarded for outstanding contribution in the field of fire awareness in Victoria in the category of Community Individual. As chairman of the Safety Institute of Australia (Geelong Branch) he became aware in 2001 of a culture improvement process called ‘Values-Driven Safety (VDS)’ and introduced the concepts into the construction industry. He believes VDS has a place in Community Fire Safety culture as he organises bushfire awareness with residents for the 2009-10 season. ITS LPG Live-fire simulator BullEx products include; • BullsEye digital fire simulator. • Intelligent Training Systems (I.T.S.), Live-fire simulator. • Xtreme I.T.S. (Prop enabled). • Gas Detector Training System with simulated leaking LPG tanks. • Smoke Training Machines • Breathing Apparatus Blindmask Electronically simulating BA mask fogging. Mob: 0466 598 969 Email: [email protected] www.bullexsafety.com.au Winner of the 2008 Victorian Fire Awareness Award 5 Workplace Safety ‘Safe Work Australia Week’ focuses on need for safety Safe Work Australia’s annual ‘Safe Work Australia Week’ will again focus national attention on safety in the workplace and the importance of improving OHS throughout Australian workplaces. It aims to encourage employers in particular, to concentrate on workplace measures to reduce death, injury and disease. With more than 140,000 Australians seriously injured at work each year and more than 250 killed as a result of work-related injuries, it’s a muchneeded initiative. This year’s event from October 25 to 31 will be very much a D-I-Y safety event, with employers being encouraged to stage events in their workplaces to raise awareness of safety issues affecting their workers, preventing workplace incidents and managing injuries. 2009 Work Safe Forum The Perth 2009 Work Safe Forum will be held October 27 at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre as WA’s key event during Safe Work Australia Week. Key note speaker, Dr Alison Dale, from safety consultancy Sentis, will speak about the inevitable plateauing of improvements to behaviour-based safety systems and the move to cognitivebased safety systems. Plenary speakers include: Professor Steve Allsop, Director of the National Drug Institute of Australia and Adjunct Professor with the Centre for International Health, Division of Health Sciences at Curtin University will speak about drugs and alcohol in the workplace; and Mark Leverence, HS & E Manager at RCR Engineering will speak on thought processes and motivating factors of peoples’ decision making. National campaign to improve scaffolding safety Workplace safety authorities across Australia are undertaking a nationally coordinated targeted intervention campaign to improve scaffolding safety in the construction industry. The national campaign will see workplace safety inspectors from all states visit residential and commercial construction sites to ensure safe work procedures are in place to address the risks of erecting and using scaffolding. Sydney Safety Conference will be big! This year’s Sydney Safety Conference and Show to be held October 27 to 29 seems set to be one of the biggest events of its kind to be held in Australia. The event will present more than 50 Australian and international speakers in its program. The first day of the program will be focused on the subject of national harmonisation with a series of speakers discussing legislation and how it will be implemented. Day two will cover a range of hands-on topics among them Best Practice OHS Reporting; Australia Post’s experience with Safety Positive Performance Indicators; the OHS implications with an ageing workforce and leadership in a crisis. Day three topics will mainly relate to health issues. One key note topic will relate to the death of a welder who was wearing damp clothing and what should be done in the interests of welder safety in high humidity climates. Other topics to be covered include turning stress into success; returning workers from injury time off to employment and the effect of 6 workplace hazards on the human body. The conference will conclude with a mock trial of a company being prosecuted for breach of OHS regulations. In addition to the conference there will be interactive live demonstrations of a free fall prevention workshop and Workcover NSW workshops on workplace bullying, workers compensation claims and the smart move toolkit. The exhibitor list is expected to have more than 300 companies taking part. Further info: www.thesafetyshow.com.au/ Offshore industry urged to focus on causes of incidents affecting safety of offshore facilities in the 2009-10 A strategic period. approach “We are looking for leadership across to planning the sector to take a more strategic for safety on approach to planning for safety in offshore petroleum facilities is needed, Issue 80in what August operations is a high2009 hazard according to the acting CEO of the environment.” National Offshore Petroleum Safety “Although each facility operator Authority, Simon Schubach. Guidance Instrumented Systems develops a detailed safety case to “Planning for safe operations shouldon Safety describe how they will manage risks be guided by findings from extensive data on their and particularly facility – NOPSA’s(EEMUA) has recently published collected from industryThe over Engineering the past five Equipment Materials Association common findings on root causes across years,” he said. Application of IEC 61511 to Safety Instrumented Systems in the UK Process Industries (EEMUA industry should be addressed in forward NOPSA data shows that the top three Programs focus NOPSA’s Safety 1). Theplanning. document was developed in conjunction witharea. Oil and Gas UK operational root causes of incidentsPublication that affected222, Edition alerts on its website also provide practical “In times when budgets are constrained, offshore safety in this time are: preventative (formerly UKOOA). lessons for industry on past incidents with the need for strategic planning to ensure maintenance requiring improvement, potential to endanger the health and safety procedures not used or followed and design that resources and efforts are directed to Although the publication aimed at the UK market, published in Australia of 61511 offshoreisworkers. areasisthat haveprimarily been proven to cause risk is IEC specifications needing improvement. NOPSA also publishes an systems Offshore evenand more vital.”good practice in the design of safety related Industry leaders are urged toIEC use these as AS 61511-2004, covers control Health and Safety Performance Report findings to prioritise their activities in through all stages of their lifecycle. isanalysis a possible waydata for from operators Safety data Compliance with the standard with of safety industry protecting the safety of offshore personnel. each year. Copies of the report are to show that to they have A met theirofduty of care obligations under the Offshore Petroleum and on the Mr Schubach said NOPSA intends wealth industry safety data is NOPSA website or it can be ordered from available the NOPSA website (Submerged look for evidence that industry is acting on Storage Greenhouse Gas Actthrough 2006 and the Petroleum Lands) (Management of NOPSA by contacting: under the industry key performance these three main findings on root causes of [email protected]. Safety on Offshore Facilities) (MoSOF). indicatorsRegulations section and in1996 the National incidents during its audits and inspections The section on legal aspects is not applicable in its entirety to Australian law, but concepts such as ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practicable) and comments about application of the standard to existing installations should be familiar to operators of offshore petroleum facilities in Australia. Of particular interest is the document’s guidance on technical matters. For example, the appendices contain guidance on SIL determination, functional safety plans and competency management that is not covered in the standard itself. The document can be obtained from the EEMUA website. 2 HSR forum proves popular This year’s Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) Forum was again held in conjunction with the APPEA National Oil and Gas Safety Conference. This integrated approach created opportunities for improved communication between industry and the workforce. This year NOPSA led the steering group that managed the agenda for the HSR Forum. A record number of attendees (180) participated in the forum, and many remained to attend the Safety Conference. The two major themes of the HSR forum were: • process safety culture and safety leadership • the utilisation of the safety case by HSRs 7 Chem Centre at Curtin University A ChemCentre finds a new home at Curtin University fter more than 60 years at its current location, ChemCentre is relocating to the Resources and Chemistry Precinct, a $116 million facility located at Curtin University of Technology in Bentley. ChemCentre, in the south wing of the building, will incorporate four levels of specialised laboratory and working space, as well as customised housing for its safety, forensics and emergency response units. CEO, Peter Millington, believes the move will enhance ChemCentre’s current operations, leading to greater collaboration with partners from a range of sectors. ‘The customised modern laboratories and resources will not only improve our efficiency, they will also allow us to further develop our capabilities for industry,’ said Mr Millington. The Precinct also houses Curtin’s Department of Chemistry, and is adjacent to the Australian Minerals Research Centre. The move is a substantial undertaking, as individual ChemCentre departments will be moved over an eight-week period, so as to remain fully operational during this time. For up to date information, call (08) 9422 9800, or visit chemcentre.wa.gov.au. Mining industry fatality rate lower than what the industry is credited for The incident rate of fatalities per 1000 employees in the mining industry has dropped dramatically over the past 30 years and is much lower than seems to be generally recognised. According to the ‘Monitor,’ newsletter of the Mining and Resource Contractors Safety Training Association there is an unwarranted alarmist reaction to fatalities occurring in the mining industry. It makes the point that while there is no acceptable fatality incident rate, the mining industry is one industry that has markedly improved its safety rating in the past 30 years. The underground mining sector has seen fatality rates reduce from an average rate in the 1980s of 1.6 to .2 – a reduction of almost 90% Rock falls It says the major cause of fatalities before 2000 was rock falls which have since been almost eliminated. The 10 fatalities since 2000 have been due to five different causes. The surface sector has seen an incident reduction from an average in the 1980s of .15 to .06 in the 10 years since 2000 – a reduction of almost 60%. Most fatalities have occurred in the 8 use of plant and machinery used in transporting ore. The newsletter makes the point that this reduction has occurred despite a massive increase in the workforce, many of whom have had little or no prior industry experience. It makes the point that in 2007/2008 the fatality incidence rates per 1000 employees in various industries were: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing Construction Transportation & Storage Manufacturing Mining .16 .04 .12 .04 .03 OHS training for heavy vehicle drivers gaining wider acceptance T raining programs for drivers of trucks and machinery in order to keep them fitter and healthier is gaining wider acceptance. Exercise physiologist, Mikala Pougnault, said that while workplace injury rates across Australia were starting to bear the fruits of a greater enlightenment towards injury prevention, the frequency of injuries resulting from operation of heavy vehicles remains concernedly high. She said that injury statistics for the WA mining industry indicate that in 2005/06, 10% of all injuries were attributed to heavy vehicle operation while driving, or getting in and out of the vehicle. “The causes of these injuries commonly involve shock and trauma, time period behind the wheel, ergonomics of the cabin, seat set-up, posture, and serviceability of seats, seat capacity, vibration, and operator control. “Whole Body Vibration (WBV) is a common experience for vehicle operators, particularly in bulldozers, dump or haul trucks, graders, loaders, and equipment transport machines. “The operators of these vehicles are subject to jolts and jars, in addition to a vibration throughout their entire body while working in the cabin. “Research shows that jarring and shock alone, is responsible for up to 30% of injuries to the back,” she said. The effects of being subjected to WBV can range from a mild discomfort and feelings of fatigue, to the development of moderate to severe back and neck injuries. Musculoskeletal injuries alone account for 50% of all injuries sustained by individuals who drive vehicles as part of their job, with the majority of these injuries occurring in the lower back, neck, knees and ankles. Driver/operator training is essential to address the setup and positioning of the seat within the cab while awareness of how to position the vehicle when stationary is also of value. Ms Pougnault said the training progam provided by Worksite Fitness and Rehabilitation trains operators on seat adjustment, postural habits, rest breaks, physical conditioning and procedures for safe entry and exit of the vehicle. For further information on implementing the Healthy Driver program contact WFR at [email protected] or on 08 9325 8333. Spot the killer? Call Molescan TODAY to visit YOUR worksite Mobile Scanning & clinics Australia wide Visit: www.molescan.com.au for locations 1300 665 337 9 Staff behaving badly I t’s Friday afternoon and the boss has decided it’s time to reward his hard working staff with a few beers to wind down the working week and get them in the mood for the weekend. A reminder regarding the Melbourne Cup and Christmas parties One beer leads to another, which leads to another and another and by knock-off time young Frank, who’s had more than his fair share and who’s been leering at the receptionist all afternoon and making more than the odd off-colour suggestion to her, decides it’s time for home. He staggers into his car, squeels his tyres and roars off. He runs a few amber lights, mounts the kerb a couple of times and three blocks from home his luck runs out. A child darts out from behind a car chasing a ball and into the path of Frank’s car. Dulled by too much alcohol, his reactions are slow. He brakes and swerves to miss her, but hits her with the car’s fender, throwing her onto the kerb. Now out of control, he slams into a power pole, bringing it down on top of him and trapping him. The child is left a paraplegic and Frank is severely injured. Her parents sue him. Frank’s lawyer, Mr Diddle of Furphy, Rort and Diddle, advises him to sue his boss who failed to ensure Frank’s safety at work by irresponsibly serving him alcohol. So what are Frank and his enterprising lawyer’s chances of success in the midst of this tragedy? In Australia we’re yet to see a legal case where an employee has taken legal action against their employer for irresponsibly serving alcohol at work but the case of Rosser v Vintage Nominees Pty Ltd, licensee of the Liars Saloon in Victoria Park, possibly opens a can of worms. In this case the licensee was held partially responsible for an accident in which Mr Rosser crashed his car after drinking at the premises. 10 While the situation of Friday afternoon drinks at work, or other causes for workplace celebrations, doesn’t involve licensed premises, Ian Curlewis, Partner of Perth firm, Lavan Legal warns that festivities that get out of hand could involve: • A damages claim by an employee injured in a fight; • Sexual harassment at the party which could be vicariously attributed to the employer; and • Dismissal of an employee as a result of conduct at the party resulting in an unfair dismissal application. Legal action as a result of an alcohol induced car crash is another possibility. Mr Curlewis says that without becoming total killjoys, employers need to adopt basic guidelines as the provision of a safe workplace is every employer’s responsibility. “When liquor in particular is provided by an employer to staff, the responsibility for the appropriate and safe intake rests heavily on the employer,” Mr Curlewis said. He says responsible practice includes: • having liquor served by professional bar staff • making sure anyone serving alcohol doesn’t serve it to someone already intoxicated; • providing food, water and non alcoholic drinks; • ensuring juvenile employees don’t consume alcohol; • monitoring boorish or sleazy employee behaviour or unwanted attention to co-employees. “Responsible liquor practices will partly reduce the potential for litigation but they’re no substitute for sound management and precautionary reminders to staff about proper conduct and protocols before events like the Melbourne Cup or Christmas parties,” Mr Curlewis said. 11 Mine Safety Taking mine safety to China Min Re CoalSAFE C hina’s massive mining industry is regarded as the deadliest in the world with thousands dying each year in mining accidents. Last year 3,215 mining industry employees lost their lives in China’s coal mines alone, and that was the good news – the numbers were a 15.1% improvement on 2007. They were victims of the nation’s poor safety standards and illegal operations. China closed some 1,054 illegal coal mines in 2008, but with 80% of its 16,000 mines illegal, there’s still a long way to go. However, China is getting a little help from Australia in the shape of a major mine safety demonstration project at the Xuandong coal mine 150 km from Beijing. It’s being managed by Queensland’s Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station (SIMTARS). The mine will demonstrate Australian mine safety technology, training and education in risk management while adopting leading practices and technologies to minimise injuries and fatalities, according to the web site, Mining Safety. The lessons learned at the Xuangdong demonstration project are aimed at improving the standard of coal mine safety at coal mines throughout China according to Queensland Mines and Energy Minister, Stephen Robertson. Coal-S CoalSAFE Coal Research Institute (SYCCRI) that will see its safety chambers distributed throughout the country. MineARC has been working with SYCCRI to develop ® and introduce regulations for compulsory refuge chambers in all licensed underground coal mines, Designed using its CoalSAFE to provid Refuge Chamber as the model for industry best practice. for coal miners in e The company says SYCCRI’s move on behalf of the Chinese Central Government demonstrates its commitment to bringing the country’s mining safety up to the standards ofthE developed nations such®as Australia and the USA. CSS CoAl-SAFE t ChAmbEr pAtEnt pEnDing 2008903738 C Coal-SAFE MineARC Coal-SAFE® CSS Model Safety Chambers Meanwhile, closer to home, West Australian safety chamber manufacturer, MineARC has signed a distribution agreement with the Shenyang branch of the China Providing occupational and environment al noise measurement and assessment products and support for 20 years... Is noise a risk within your business? more chambers, in more mines, in more parts o Accredited Training Courses Systems® isCalibration the global MineARC NATA Accredited With over a decade of Laboratory in the industry, our de leader in the manufacture and Occupational Noise Equipment and Services ongoing research and supply of safety refuge chambers Environmental Noiseand Equipment has andkept Services us at the fore tothe underground mining underground safety te tunneling industries. NOISE Occupational Environmental Modelling Assessment Control Airborne Underwater Safety, Condition and Performance Monitoring Vibration, Stress, Strain, Torque and Force “West Virginia Approved” & “ TOUGH PROBLEMS PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS www.svt.com.au www.nvms.com.au 12 www.minearc Scary prospect of directors being charged heightens HS&E awareness By Sue Watt, Senior SH&E Consultant, SAI Global T he possibility of company directors and executive management facing criminal conviction for workplace murder and manslaughter has catapulted Health, Safety and Environment (SH&E) risk to the top of the corporate mind. While SH&E may be considered administratively onerous because of the sheer number of obligations (up to 10,000), it means it is imperative a model delivering management for protecting businesses and their directors be implemented. SH&E professionals need to cover the gamut – from a comprehensive knowledge of relevant laws and legal obligations, to managing a consistent communications framework both vertically and horizontally, to ensuring compliance and reporting on the SH&E program. As business leaders become personally liable for breaches and corporate reputations hang in the balance, SH&E professionals will need to step up to the Board and executive management to demonstrate that obligations are being met and the systems will stand scrutiny. • But with so many obligations to be aware of and usually limited resources, what can a SH&E professional do to create a model for protecting a business and increasing productivity? A key challenge is to maintain a clear line of sight to the Board and executive management, and to influence a business’s risk policy. The key elements to effective approach to SH&E are leadership, culture, assurance and improvement, framework and system and most importantly, a comprehensive and up to date obligations register. •How can we ensure that SH&E professionals have access to the board and are able to influence risk policy? There are key elements to leadership that the SH&E practitioner aiming for governance excellence can manage: • Develop Key Risk Indicators (KRIs) and engage with the board to ensure these are considered business critical (by going beyond personal risk and emphasising the effects on productivity, reputation and the risk of prosecution) • Influence risk policy • Help set short and medium term performance objectives • Drive a culture of open communication from the top down and bottom up. Open communications Open communications that encourage reporting of risks and incidents will allow a practitioner to drive risk down to an individual level which should be supported by effective staff training and assessments. This can help maintain a positive SH&E culture and drive performance against the business’s KRIs. Open communications will also demonstrate to staff that reports will be acted on and changes made - so that openness in communication engenders continuous improvement in practice. As we saw from the Longford gas explosion (Esso was sued for failing to meet several obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act 1985, even though the Victorian Workcover Authority had conducted an audit and made no recommendations), external audits are no guarantee of compliance. Even internal audits rarely look beyond the business’s procedures and policies and into the maintenance and standard of the obligations register. The SH&E professional has a vital role in assurance and improvement. By knowing all the legal obligations and having an effective management system, they can ensure a change from framework into behaviour. Obligations Register An obligations register is the cornerstone of a successful SH&E governance system, helping a practitioner keep track of Acts and regulations, Standards, Statutory Codes and Policies and other documents – but it’s a living document that must be managed. Knowing the relevant legislation, and maintaining a system that complies with certification standards is the key to completeness – just knowing black letter law, or just complying with standards, won’t meet the needs of the business. Both are necessary, together with managing compliance, as part of an excellent management system. 13 • How does a SH&E professional make sure that the obligations register is translated into positive actions and instructions for task owners? Obligations need to have owners, and those owners need to have business processes and behaviours that make sure those obligations are fulfilled. At the very least, SH&E obligations should be broken down into 140 process elements – each process and each task incorporating the relevant black letter law. But keeping an obligations register up to date is a daunting task, with up to 1,500 changes a year that need to be actioned and the need to maintain currency across the entire register. This brings us back to the question of how a practitioner, who does after all need to know in detail the legal obligations of the business, can step back from the detail to gain the necessary exposure at board level. Traditionally, an SH&E practitioner would communicate with hundreds, if not thousands, of employees and end up with a jumble of documents and reports – certainly no model for governance excellence. Is there a better option? An enterprise-wide technology solution spanning KRIs, incidents, identification of new risks and audits would enable a practitioner to deliver communications and responsive reporting. A system and framework supported by technology lays the groundwork, while the SH&E professional’s knowledge of obligations makes the system fully integrated. A SH&E professional has to play a role in positive cultural change, and aim for acceptance at all levels to really achieve governance excellence. A strong system supported by a technological solution to the administrative aspects of managing risk will ultimately reduce losses to businesses, decrease the personal risk to directors and enhance productivity – delivering a model of governance excellence. For more detail on the framework discussed above, you can request a copy of the white paper, SH&E Governance Excellence: From Worker to Boardroom from SAI Global by going to our web site or emailing: [email protected] Education New degree to meet demand for safety professionals A new four year Bachelor of Occupational Health and Safety Science degree from the University of Queensland, offering career opportunities in a diverse range of workplaces, from mines to movie sets, will be available to students in 2010. UQ Professor of Occupational Health and Safety, Mike Capra, said he believed its graduate OHS specialists would be in demand due to a workforce shortage. “The program was developed at the request of the OHS industry, including the Safety Institute of Australia, which saw the need for a professional qualification in the field,” Professor Capra said. “The lack of well-qualified OHS professionals is causing alarm among members of major OHS associations, government authorities and employers. “Historically OHS education has been a career ‘add on’, often a short course or minor area of study in a broader degree, so UQ consulted with stakeholders and practising OHS professionals to develop a program to meet their needs. “The result is a four-year degree that includes a strong scientific focus, a significant practical component and covers mental health workplace issues, which was a specific request from industry.” Students will learn about a variety of issues in the workplace including chemical, physical, mechanical, 14 psychological and biological hazards. They will also study law, ergonomics, risk management, behaviour change and workplace conflict as part of the program. The in-depth knowledge and practical skills provided by this program means graduates will be considered highly-trained professionals, Professor Capra said. For more information on this new program go to www.uq.edu.au/health/ohsdegree ICL Plastics explosion: are there lessons for Australia? A catastrophic explosion in a Scottish plastics factory may hold safety lessons for Australia in the safe use of LPG. On May 11 2004 a leaking LPG pipe caused an explosion at the ICL Plastics factory in Maryhill, Glasgow killing nine people and injuring many more. LPG had leaked from the underground metal pipe into the factory’s basement and when it ignited, the explosion brought down the four storey Victorian era factory. Lord Brian Gill, Scotland’s second most senior judge, chaired the inquiry into the disaster to find it was caused by a pipe that was “out of sight and out of mind” and which “would have cost about £400 to replace.” The use of reticulated gas in the Perth metropolitan area stretches back to the 1920s and even further (the City of Perth Gas Company was formed in 1882) so there’s obvious potential for similar “out of sight, out of mind” gas piping. The consequences of poor inspection and inadequate monitoring and maintenance were amply demonstrated by the explosion at Apache Energy’s Varanus Island gas plant in June 2008. Luckily no one was killed by this explosion but the state’s domestic gas supplies were cut by approximately 30%, causing massive economic disruption until supplies were restored months later. Alinta Gas were approached for comment but declined. Photograph sourced from the Scottish Sun Coroner highlights need for better mine lighting and ground support A Coroner’s report on a mining fatality has highlighted the need for better lighting underground. The West Australian Coroner has highlighted the need for better mine lighting and better information on ground support for miners in a report on the death of an airleg miner in September 2006. The miner had been struck by a large rock while drilling stripping holes in the sidewall of his work area. The inquest found a possible factor in the death was the difficulty of distinguishing between two similar looking rock types using light available to him – a standard cap-lamp. This made it difficult to identify rock structures and discontinuities that may have revealed a wedge-shaped block of rock that could fall if not adequately supported. The Coroner said the case highlighted the need for additional light sources in mining areas where it might be important to distinguish differences in rock type and to easily identify potential adverse structures in it. It was also recommended that: “ … when airleg miners are working as contractors underground and are required to install ground support, they be provided by mine management with a short document which clearly identifies the precise extent of ground support required, including the circumstances in which it is appropriate for those miners to exercise their discretion to provide additional support.” He also suggested mine managers should supply airleg miners with a short document clearly identifying the precise extent of ground support that was required. 15 Feature Report 2009 WA OHS Conferen T Notes by Gavin Waugh he collaborative WA OSH Conference recently held in Fremantle with IFAP was a great success with thanks due to Stewart McDonald and his team from Vertical Events for their very professional event management. This event broke new ground for the unification of the safety industry in WA, creating a momentum to include more organisations in next years’ August conference at the Perth Exhibition Centre. I would love to be in a position to dedicate an entire issue of the magazine to writing up the outcomes of each SIA conference but that will have to wait until finances permit. An interesting focus of the event’s preconference session was the vast chasm existing between safety qualifications and employment requirements. Pam Pryor spoke of the need to set sound benchmarks for standards, content and consistency among courses offered by universities across Australia as identified through research out of QUT. More funding needed There’s still much work to be done in this area so I’m sure Pam would be grateful for any ideas or sources for funding to further promote this work. Look out for more later about “you and your safety employment”. The main body of the conference flowed with consistency across the steams, much to the efforts of Arianne George (IFAP) in chasing, harassing and getting the speakers coordinated. The overall trend now appearing and strongly noted in this event is for a greater emphasis on jurisdiction compliance and other broader management matters. ie: Where are we in the bigger picture? This seems to be a maturing progression from the past view of “what we did on the shop floor”. I believe, the more knowledge we can give to the industry the more professional will be growth of the safety industry overall. Bryan Russell is our event coordinator for the 2010 conference and is already developing program concepts. Express your interest through www.siawa.org.au Also visit. www.sia.org.au and www.siaconference.com.au Thanks to the WA OSH sponsors and exhibitors Active Injury Management Aggreko Body Active Consultancy Coffey Environments Constructatruck Deb Australia Edith Cowan University First Aid Health and Safety Gemini Medical Services GIO 16 Hartac Hostile Environment Services IFAP Instrulabs Pty Ltd Konekt Australia nce with IFAP - Fremantle www. 2.2 Total Cholesterol Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) made by the body and is p essential for good health; however, a high cholestero (hypercholesterolemia) is associated with an increase risk of as coronary heart disease, stroke and peripheral vascular bloods were taken during a non-fasting period, candidates’ res Cholesterol Profile 5 34.48 io 27.59 R at k H L LD ce 65.52 C or on ar y ig ly Tr C ho le st er r id e ol elegates to the conference were offered the opportunity of receiving 70 58.62 a free partial health assessment. 60 46 of the attendees took up the opportunity offered by Prime Health 55.17 55.17 Group, a specialist organisation in delivering clinic and site based services for 50 44.83 44.83 Total proactively 2.2 managing the Cholesterol health and well being of staff. 41.38 The assessment revealed that 46.6% the tested had borderline/ Cholesterol is aoftype of fat attendees (lipid) made by the body and is 40present in all cells. It is high blood pressure; 55.17% had high levels of cholesterol; 55.17% high levels of for ofgood however, level in the blood triglycerides; 41.38%essential had high levels LDLs;health; 27.59% had low levelsaof high HDLs;cholesterol 30 65.52% had increased coronary risk ratio while 44.83% had highwith levelsan of increase blood (hypercholesterolemia) is associated risk of health problems, such 20 glucose. as coronary heart disease, stroke and peripheral vascular disease. Even though The assessments were a brief snapshot of Prime’s corporate health services that 10 can assess fitness and healthwere levels taken of company bloods duringpersonnel. a non-fasting period, candidates’ results are still accurate. The assessments include body composition measures that take in waist girth, hip 0 girth and waist hip ratio; blood screening that includes cholesterol, blood glucose, PSA testing, liver and iron studies while fitness measures can assess flexibility, lung Cholesterol Profile function, cardio vascular fitness and strength. Results can provide a comprehensive overview of the key health issues within a workplace. Prime can then provide assistance in implementing health and wellness Desirable 80 72.41 programs suited to the specific needs of the group, the workplace or organisation. Undesirable D L D 72.41 R is 80 Attendees given a health assessment www.primehealth.com.au 65.52 70 58.62 60 55.17 44.83 50 55.17 44.83 Mercury Fire Safety40Pty Ltd Modern Motor Trimmers 30 myosh NVMS Pty Ltd 20 Onsite Health Solutions 41.38 OPTX Australasia Industrial Safety is used as a screening 34.48 A fastingRoofsafe blood glucose measurement PBF Australia 27.59 Suncorp Metway 2 Diabetes is most prevalent in our community and increas Poster Faktory Australia SafeSearch heart disease strokes, Powertech Teksal and Controls Ptyand Ltdmay cause nerve damage an period ofWestcoast at least 8-10 hours is Medical recommended for an accurat Prime Health Group Surgical and Supplies Red Alert Australia Work Solutions Most candidates had consumed food and drinks prior to having 10 io R at D L 17 ry R is k H L LD ce ig ly Tr C ho le st er r id e ol 0 Worksafe notes Inspection of home based care reveals concerns W orksafe WA has reported a recent inspection of home based care organisations revealed concerns, particularly with protecting workers against communicable diseases. Inspectors found that employers were generally complying with legislation for the majority of hazards, but one area of concern was communicable diseases because employers were either not aware of the communicable disease hazards or were not taking action to reduce the risks. Inspectors found workers were not provided with the option of Hepatitis B vaccination or information on the transmission of communicable diseases and how to minimise risks of contracting diseases. Other issues identified related to the provision of personal protective equipment such as gloves for infection control and chemical exposure, systems to maintain communication with workers working alone and the provision and testing of RCDs as protection against electrical hazards. WorkSafe intends to release guidance material for home based care organisations that will address the hazards common in the industry and advise employers on how to minimise the risks associated with these hazards. Laundries and powder coaters to come under scrutiny A campaign of inspecting commercial laundries and businesses that undertake powder coating is being undertaken between now and April 2010. According to Commissioner, Nina Lyhne the campaign follows a pilot study that uncovered a lack of awareness of some of the hazards in these industries. “She said powder coating was a process in which the coating is applied electrostatically and then cured under heat to allow it to flow and form a “skin”. In the past, the powder contained a hazardous substance known as TGIC. TGIC had been removed from major brands, but some cheap imported powders may still contain TGIC. Fined for pedestrian danger Bassendean motor body building company, Park Motor Body Builders (WA) Pty Ltd was recently fined $1500 – plus $1600 in costs for failing to minimise the risk of injury to pedestrians from vehicles moving around its yard. WorkSafe inspectors investigating an incident at the company’s premises in March 2007 observed that movement and speed of vehicles and plant were not managed to minimise injury risk to pedestrians, as required under OH&S regulations. Pedestrian employees were not isolated from traffic nor were there signs warning of the presence of trucks moving through the area. WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said 18 West Australian workers had died over the past eight years in incidents involving plant and pedestrians. She said a major concern was that operators of mobile plant could not see pedestrians especially when they were close to the vehicle or machine A Guidance Note on the Safe Movement of Vehicles at Workplaces is available via WorkSafe – telephone 9327 8777 or on the website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au. 18 She said there’s also a suspected lack of awareness of the hazardous nature of other chemicals used, especially hydrofluoric acid solutions and chromic acid solutions, a known carcinogen. Laundries and drycleaners Ms Lyhne said the past five years, had seen the number of reported injuries in laundries and drycleaners increase significantly, with 46 workers seriously injured and not able to return to work within 60 days. Most of the injuries were muscle and joint sprains and strains sustained while handling or lifting or as a result of falls. The campaign will look at priority areas such as manual handling, electricity, hazardous substances and slips, trips and falls, as well as guarding of machinery, operation of pressure vessels and fire and emergency safety. Powerline contact costs a company $5000 Underground installation company, Buckby Contracting Pty Ltd was recently fined $5000 after an excavator boom came into contact with overhead powerlines. The company pleaded guilty to failing to ensure plant controlled by an employee did not enter the danger zone of an overhead powerline after it was contracted in May 2007 to install sewerage and water services and perform sub-soil drainage works at a site in Maddington. The company had consulted Western Power about isolating or insulating the powerlines so the work could be performed safely underneath them but were told this could not be done. Western Power proposed alternative measures but these were not followed with the result an excavator operator began excavation and clearing works on May 10, and when he slewed the machine around, it struck the 22,000kv powerlines, scorching the boom and cutting power to the surrounding area. Trolley collection company fined $12,000 for false information A South Australia-based trolley collection company has been fined $12,000 in the Joondalup Magistrates Court for providing falsified training documents for a trolley collector killed in a car park in 2007. Honest & Frank Pty Ltd pleaded guilty to providing an inspector with information that was false or misleading after a trolley collector employed by the company was killed as a result of falling off a trolley trailer in the car park of the Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre in September 2007. As part of the investigation into the death, the WorkSafe inspector required the employer to produce training and induction records for the trolley collector. The document submitted bore a signature the company claimed was that of the deceased worker. It was a copy, and the inspector requested to see the original document, which the company claimed could not be located. The signature on the induction record and the signature on the man’s passport were examined by the Police Handwriting Analysis Division, which concluded that the signature on the induction record was a photographic reproduction of the one on the passport. New rules for RCDs and smoke alarms now apply Sellers of residential property are now required by state law to have two Residual Current Devices (RCDs), installed in the property. These safety devices must be installed by the Settlement Date. The same law applies to owners with rental properties: All residential premises being newly leased must comply from August 9 this year. For existing tenants where no new lease is required, the RCDs must be fitted by 9 August 2011. RCD devices are designed to save people from electrocution and to protect against fires which can start from wires with damaged or perished insulation. Any licensed electrician can supply and fit the RCDs on the switchboard of your property. The new regulations will mainly affect properties built before 2001, when it became compulsory to fit at least two RCDs in all newly built properties. In addition to this RCD requirement, there will soon be an additional requirement to have hard-wired smoke alarms installed in all residential properties being sold or made available for lease. This law is expected to come into effect in October this year. Battery operated smoke alarms will no longer suffice. For more information about RCDs you can contact the Division of Energy Safety at the Department of Commerce in Perth on 9422 5200. 19 News and notes Dean describes OHS standards as a ‘regulatory paradox’ Dr Geoff Dell, Dean of the SIA College of Fellows has described Australia’s standards on OHS as a regulatory paradox. Speaking at the inaugural SIA Victoria Division Education Awards in Melbourne, Dr Bell said he found it ironic that OHS remains a A$30 billion annual cost to our society, a cost bigger than the gross GDP of some Pacific Island nations, yet Australia’s regulatory framework in every other State and Territory largely infers that anyone, regardless of education and experience, can provide safety and health related guidance to industry. “However, if a company needed to get a water pipe repaired, the Australian regulatory framework everywhere mandates a licensed plumber. I’m sure I am not the only one here who can see the regulatory paradox in that regard, he said. His address was a forerunner to the presentation of awards which indicated at least that the standards on OHS education are increasing substantially. The principal award went to David Borys for his thesis titled “Exploring risk-awareness as a cultural approach to Safety: Exposing the gap between work as imagined and work as actually performed.” Borys made an ethnographic study of risk awareness programs at two sites within a large contract maintenance organisation. He found that risk awareness programs split the workplace approach to safety where the managers focused on paperwork and the workers focused on the application of safety through a “common sense” approach. Award winners Category 1: Diploma of Occupational Health and Safety Barry Tanner: Swinburne University of Technology Category 2: B.Sc (OH& S) Jesse Saunders of RMIT University Category 3: Post Graduate Diploma in Occupational Health & Saf ety Rob Stewart of La Trobe University Category 4: Doctor of Ph ilosophy, PhD Thesis in Safety & He alth David Borys University of Ballarat Graduate Certificate in OH&S Shraddha Shah La Trobe University Elise Robinson RMIT Un iversity Industry welcomes safe work bill Minerals Council of Australia Chief Executive Officer Mitchell Hooke says the passage of the Safe Work Australia Bill through Federal Parliament represents a significant milestone in the move towards a national Occupational Health and Safety regulatory regime. The legislation establishes Safe Work Australia as an independent statutory agency to give effect to the Intergovernmental Agreement for Regulatory and Operational Reform and Occupational Health and Safety agreed by COAG on 3 July 2008. New Mines Safety bulletin The WA Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) has updated its safety bulletin regarding the earthing of underground ammonium nitrate (ANFO) loaders. The report, ‘Mine Safety Bulletin No 83’ replaces the 1993 Safety Bulletin and takes into account a range of Safe Work Australia will have the critical role of developing a draft Model OH&S Act. “The MCA supports a single OH&S Act covering all sectors and jurisdictions and industry specific national regulations, where required, complemented by national codes of practice and guidelines,” Mr Hooke said. “The minerals industry has been advocating legislative and regulatory reform that enhances the protection of workers and is consistent with the industry’s goal of zero harm in the workplace. changes to industry practices and regulations. The bulletin outlines controls to avoid electrostatic charge accumulation during ANFO pneumatic loading and includes methods to provide efficient discharge paths with semi-conductive hosing and earthing. The updated bulletin now requires workers to use loaders that comply with a range of stringent manufacturer and supplier recommendations. 20 “There are currently 10 principal statutes – six state, two territory and two Commonwealth – governing OH&S in Australia as well as numerous regulations and codes of practice. This raft of overlapping OH&S laws, standards and requirements is confusing for workers and diverts business from the primary goal of improving workplace health and safety.” The MCA has called for the National Mine Safety Framework to form the basis of national minerals industry specific regulation within the Model OH&S Act. Users must also ensure explosives are loaded through a semi-conductive hose or tube with a resistance of at least 15,000 Ohms per metre. Workers should not use water lines, compressed air lines, or permanent electrical earthing systems as a means of earthing and must use protected detonators when loading and firing. The DMP is prompting mines to display the updated requirements in a prominent position to minimise the risk of premature explosive ignition. What Hazards and Explosive environments are going unnoticed on production facilities due to the problems caused by CUI? A lesson from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita has a Louisiana refinery changing the way it protects some of its tank exteriors. Several tank exteriors with foam insulation are now being protected with a coating that also provides insulation. The reasoning? Hurricane/Cyclonic winds can rip away foam insulation from storage tanks, but an insulative coating will keep protecting and performing, despite the weather. Valero acquired the refinery in St. Charles, LA, in 2003 and launched a yearly maintenance painting program shortly thereafter. After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita damaged the insulating systems on several storage tanks in the autumn of 2005, the company undertook the coating of three carbon steel storage tanks as part of its maintenance program. The company needed the replacement system for insulation and aesthetics. The system would have to provide thermal insulation to maintain the stored product at the correct temperature. How can the surfaces of pipes and tanks be inspected when they are covered by conventional insulation and cladding systems? Following a presentation by the coating manufacturer’s representative, Valero chose a water-borne acrylic coating containing hollow ceramic particles to protect the tanks. The insulative coating can protect surfaces up to 200 C, with peak loads to 260 C, the manufacturer says. Two of the tanks measure 51m in diameter and 10 m high. The third tank is 54m in diameter. DELTACOAT PTY LTD Authorized Australian & New Zealand distributors of Mascoat Products. Contact : Mark Hughes Email : [email protected] Mob : 0488 190 046 21 Work on the first tank began near the end of 2005. Based on the appearance and the thermal retention properties of the coating on the first tank, the company decided to go forward with coating the additional two tanks. The contractor notes that the waterborne acrylic coating is user friendly and has no recoat or overcoat requirements, an important consideration in the humid climate of Louisiana. In addition, overspray was not a concern because the dry fall range of the insulative coating is relatively narrow at 0.9 to 1.5 m. The contractor provided all quality control, monitoring surface preparation and application as well as measuring wet and dry mil thicknesses of the coating. In all, 11,340 sq m of carbon steel had to be coated. “We’re very satisfied with what we got out of the product. It’s maintaining product at the proper temperature,” he says. When Valero’s painting season begins next year, it will use the insulative coating on other storage tanks. “We can eliminate the problem of corrosion under insulation with this spray-on coating”. Mercedes safety innovations may have wider applications I nnovations created by Mercedes Benz for vehicle safety may soon find wider applications in industry. Mercedes Benz has created the ‘ESF 2009’, the company’s first Experimental Safety Vehicle to be produced since 1974 for showcasing a range of safety features being developed by their engineers. Features include: • The PRE-SAFE® Structure system – the latest innovation in impact protection consisting of metallic structures waiting in a collapsed, space-saving state until they’re inflated in a collision with airbag gas generator technology to protect vehicle occupants. • The experimental vehicle has another innovative twist to the airbag with a Braking Bag, an under-car air bag that inflates before a collision, increasing braking performance and reducing damage. Interactive Vehicle Communication uses the increasing number of sensors, cameras and control units in modern cars as information gathering devices, then networks the information with other vehicles on the road to provide the driver with an early warning of possible problems. • PRE-SAFE® Pulse are airbags in seat belts that move occupants towards the centre of the car at impact. • The ESF 2009 also has a range of between-seat occupant protection. • Finally, the vehicle has a spotlight lighting function to specifically illuminate potential hazards such as kangaroos or pedestrians. The potential for enhanced car safety in all of this is obvious, but the PRESAFE® Structure and Interactive Vehicle Communication technology in particular could also prove invaluable in a range of mobile plants. When it’s needed, an airbag-style gas generator builds up an internal pressure of 10 to 20 bars which unfolds and deploys it. An inflatable metal safety barrier activating in fractions of a second could provide life saving protection to a machine operator confronting tons of falling metal or a collision with another vehicle for example. The big problem with this system is that its active deformation is not reversible and must be deployed shortly before impact, hence the pre-crash sensor must provide extremely reliable signals. Cost is also a problem, leading Mercedes to describe its crash responsive metal structures as a technology of the future, though as they point out, so were airbags, ESP® and ABS a few years ago. Interactive Vehicle Communication may also have potential for mobile plant applications, with its ability to warn operators of unseen hazards, road surface conditions, obstacles and even pedestrians who are out of view to initiate emergency braking or other evasive action. Localised traffic control systems on a wharf, for example, could send information about the location of semi trailers around bends or behind buildings or container stacks and predict their movement to a forklift operator, eliminating “nasty surprises” lurking round the corner. Mercedes Benz ESF 2009 22 Mining companies recognised for their innovations Mining companies that made significant improvements to their work safety received special recognition at the recent Queensland Mining Industry Health and Safety Conference. BMA Coal’s Gregory Crinum Mine took out the 2009 Queensland Mining Industry Health and Safety Innovations Award for a safety guard to prevent falls onto exposed longwall miner conveyor belts. BMA made it a clean sweep as its Saraji Mine won the people’s choice award for its feeder blockage removal device. The device enables blockages under coal stockpile feeders to be cleared remotely, taking workers out of harm’s way. A highly commended award went to Anglo Coal Australia’s, Dawson Mine for a work platform that provides better access to the CAT 797 haul truck to enable maintenance to be carried out more safely. An audience of mine workers voted for the people’s choice award. This year’s awards attracted 44 entries. Briefs Mike Meaney, technical sales representative for Airmet Scientific Pty Ltd in WA, has moved to BOC gases to take up a state wide position as Scientific Specialist focusing on laboratory gases.” ******************************************************************************************************** Australian Industry Training Providers have relocated to Unit 5, No. 4 McGrath Rd in Henderson from their previous address in Cockburn Central. 23 What’s new Frontline Diagnostics meets NATA’s new AS4308:2008 screening accreditation Cut resistant gloves investment was required to ensure Frontline Diagnostics has strict quality control. been accredited to sections He said the accreditation means of the Australian Standard customers can be assured of the AS4308:2008 for collection quality of service received in addition and on-site screening by the to having greater legal defensibility. National Association of Testing “Incorporating this new Standard Authorities, Australia (NATA). APTC Australia Pty Ltd into an organisation’s Their onsite screening procedures 1a Roper Street, Moorabbin, Victoria, 3189. alcohol and other drugs policy will ensure an for specimen collection and the (P.O. Box 113, Highett, Victoria, 3190) organisation is following the latest detection and quantitation of drugs Tele: 03 9532 0609 Fax: 03 9532 0171 of abuse in urine is the first awarded standards and receiving the best aptcaust.com.au by NATAWeb: for the on-site component legal protection against potential disputes.”. of the new Standard. Adhering to the new Standard Frontline Diagnostics’ General means that Frontline Diagnostics Manager, Richard Varnish said is compliant with the benchmarks gaining the accreditation had “ Unot L Tbeen I M AanT easy E Sprocess, EALIN G S O L U for: TIO N S ” collection, storage, taking specimen many months of hard work as handling and dispatch, integrity and identity and on-site screening all systems and procedures were heavily scrutinised and a large capital procedures. RCR International has added another level 5 cut resistant glove to its Pro-Val glove range, the “Tufflex”. The Tufflex cut resistant glove provides high grade cut resistance, four times higher than standard level 5 cut resistance to achieve the highest abrasion and tear resistant test results under the European Standard EN388. The gloves are claimed to have outstanding dexterity, being made from a combination of ultra high molecular weighted polyethylene and glass fibre. They have a breathable foam nitrile black palm, with a safety orange back for high • MTi High Quality European Manufacture Group has become the first producer of gasbags to obtain visibility and polyethylene lining to eliminate (National Association ofPU Testing •NATA Single Component FireAuthority) Rated certification Foam for glass fibre contact with the skin. non flammability with its BlastBag, Solo. They’re being used extensively in the sheet • NATA Independently Tested testing is compliant with the Australian Dangerous Goods Code metal and steel industries and are also ideally edition, the latest Australian Standard AS2278-2008, and the United •7thFire Ratings of up to 4 hours suited for the glass, automotive, construction Nations test criteria for hazardous substances 4th edition and is recognised •throughout Testedthetoworld. AS1530.4-1997 & AS4072.1-1992 and engineering industries. APTC Australia Pty Ltd For further information on the Procertification representsup a step • The Heat Resistance toforward 1500forºcbetter mine safety. 1a Roper Street, Moorabbin, Victoria, 3189. Val glove range, visit www. pro-val.com. (P.O. Box 113, Highett, Victoria, 3190) • Easy to Apply email or phone RCR Tele: 03 9532 0609au,Fax: [email protected] 9532 0171 International on 03 9558 2020. • Designed for Interior & Exterior Use Web: aptcaust.com.au NEW PRODUC T RELEASE F I R E R AT E D F O A M Blast bag rated non flammable Fire resistant •foam Suitable for Many Substrates and silicone • Large 750ml Can APTC Australia has released the European Soudal range of fire resistant foam and silicone products. The single component PU fire rated foam has a fire rating up to 4 hours – tested to AS1530.4-1997Manufacture and AS 4072.1High Quality European 1992. ire Rated Neutral Cure Silicone It is heat resistant to 1500 Sealant C and comes in a 750 ml ndependentlydeg Tested pressure can. ire Ratings of up to 4 hours The neutral cure silicone ested to AS1530.4-1997 AS4072.1-1992 sealant also has fire&rating to 4 hours and is tested olour Fast & UV Resistant to AS1530.4-1997 and AS 4072.1emains Permanently Elastic After Full Cure 1992. The makers claim itSubstrates remains xcellent Adhesion to Most permanently elastic after full Very Easy to Apply cure and has adhesion to most substrates. F I R E R AT E D S I L I CO N E APTC Australia Pty Ltd 1a Roper Street, Moorabbin, Victoria, 3189. (P.O. Box 113, Highett, Victoria, 3190) Tele: 03 9532 0609 Fax: 03 9532 0171 aptcaust.com.au “ U L T I M A T E S E A L I N G Web: SOLU TIONS” New first aid boxes NEW PRODUC T RELEASE F I R E R AT E D F O A M NEW PRODUC T RELEASE • High Quality European Manufacture “ U LT I M AT E S E A L I N G S O LU T I O N S ” • • • • • • • • • 24 Single Component PU Fire Rated Foam Independently Tested Fire Ratings•ofHigh up toQuality 4 hoursEuropean Manufacture Ferno Australia, suppliers of rescue Tested to AS1530.4-1997 & AS4072.1-1992 • Single PUhas Fire Rateda Foam andComponent safety equipment released Heat Resistance up to 1500 ºc • Independently new range of Tested purpose designed first aid Easy to Apply boxes. • Fire Ratings of up to 4 hours Designed for & Exterior Use sizes in five different and • Interior TestedAvailable to AS1530.4-1997 & AS4072.1-19 configurations, they come with removable Suitable for•Many Substrates Heattray Resistance up to 1500 dividers, tamper proof lock,ºcmetal Large 750ml• Can Easy to Apply F I R E R AT E D F O A M hinges and resistance to water, dust, oil and most chemicals. • Designed for Interior & Exterior Use • Suitable for Many Substrates • Large 750ml Can F I R E R AT E D S I L I CO N E Rockwell Automation launches safety light curtain A new family of slimline compact safety light curtains has been launched by Rockwell Automation. With just a 15mm by 20mm housing profile, the Allen-Bradley Guardmaster GuardShield Micro 400 light curtain is claimed as being the smallest Type 4 safety light curtain on the market. “A slim profile housing allows the GuardShield Micro400 to fit into applications where space is at a premium,” said Rockwell Automation’s Safety Area Manager, Gary Milburn. New product for first aid trainers With the National Health Training Package becoming the national standard for all first aid training, first aid trainers have had to re-apply for accreditation. Survival Emergency Products, a supplier to the First Aid Training Industry with resources such as practice bandages, workbooks, assessment sample answers, Power Point etc has developed generic training course mapping documents that can be used for the process of applying for reaccreditation. The documents can be purchased for $165 per unit of competency ie HLTFA301B, HLTFA201A, HLTCPR201A. The training program mapping includes cross referencing per topic to the company’s publications, ie First-aid Emergency Handbook (HLTFA2301B), Basic Emergency Life support Handbook (HLTFA201A), CPR Handbook (HLTCPR201A) – including refresher CPR courses + defib training and workbooks with teachers marking guide, practical assessments + sample answers, (Assessments are True False and multiple choice questions) For further information, contact Liz Hopwood or Paula Walker on 02 98169912 or mob 0414816496. www.survivalemergencyproducts.com “It is particularly suited to applications utilising small assembly machines, or industries such as pharmaceuticals—where the scale is smaller and you don’t want a bulky light curtain.” In addition to a slim profile, the GuardShield Micro400 features expanded functionality via its MSR42 controller, a multifunction safety module with hard-wired or software-configurable operating modes and solid state safety outputs. If safety relay outputs are required, up to three safetyrelay expansion modules (MSR45E) may be easily connected to the controller. A cascadeable model offers ease of installation and configuration, particularly where multiple light curtains are required as it enables multiple light curtain segments to be connected together on a single cable, configured to a single controller meaning there’s no need to run a cable from each light curtain segment. Energy Association relocates The W.A. Sustainable Energy Association has relocated to new quarters. It is now located at 1186 Hay Street, West Perth, tel 9481 3169; email [email protected] New work glove from Prochoice ProChoice Safety Gear has launched its latest offering to the world of workgloves – the ‘Stinga’. Ideal for tradies, farmers, road workers, mechanics, manufacturers… all whose hands are at risk and who are often reluctant to wear gloves because they claim they’re uncomfortable and ungainly. The company says that excuse won’t hold up any more because the new Stinga gloves have addressed the comfort issue with woven, seamless, apparel-grade nylon construction. The feel and grip factors are satisfied with what ProChoice calls “Bare Hand Technology”; PVC foam impregnated palms that grip in wet and dry conditions, without hindering dexterity or sensitivity. The glove has a high abrasion and tear resistance - a CE rating of EN388 4131. For further information call Paramount Safety Products on 08 9240 1165 . 25 Drug Feature Turn to the experts on drugs and alcohol in the workplace D rugs and alcohol are one of the most persistent problems in the workplace contributing to accidents and illness, poor relations with coworkers, poor decision making and absenteeism. In an alcohol and drug consuming culture such as Australia it’s little wonder that safety professionals dedicate a lot of time and effort addressing substance abuse problems in the workplace. World experts Fortunately they’re not alone in tackling the problem. It is interesting to note that Australia has some of the world’s leading experts in the field and some really outstanding research work is being done in the area. South Australia’s National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA) at Flinders University specialises in Alcohol and Other Drugs Workforce Development research and has a wealth of Workplace Dru g & Alcohol Use Information & Data Series Information & Data Sh eet 1 Workers’ Pat terns of Alcohol Consumption Ann Roche & Ken Pidd Identifying the alcohol consumptio wellbeing of n patterns workers and of the workfo also from the rce is importa and safety employers’ issues. How nt in terms perspective ever, until rec of the health of Australian in terms of ently relative and workers. Acc performanc ly little was urate informa e, productivit development known abo tion about y ut the drinking of appropriat wo rke e and effectiv rs’ drinking patterns patterns is e policy and essential for intervention the strategies. Work-related Drinking Traditionally, work-relate d drinking has conceptualise been d as drinking that occurs workplace and in the during actu al work hou prior to com rs or immedia mencing wor tely k. This is a conceptualisa very narrow tion of work-re late include drin d drinking. king that occ It does not urs outside that may be normal wor influenced by k hours workplace soc expectation ial norms and s or other wor kplace factors . Relatively little alcohol is con sumed by Aus before work tralian workers or during wor k hours, how proportions ever, large of the workfor ce engage drinking. Suc in work-relate h work-relate d d drinking mig socialising with ht include co-workers at the end of The workpla working day ce is increas . ingly recongis shaper of beh ed as a pow aviour, includin erful g drinking. What is Risk y Dr inking? Drinking per se is not nec essarily pro a worker’s pat blematic. It tern of drinking is that is importa includes whe nt. This re, when, how much and how is consumed. often alcohol Australia’s Nat ional Health Research Cou and ncil (NHMR Medical C) defines risk ways. The y drinking in first is in term two s of harm tha in the short-te t might be incu rm i.e., the rred more immedia the second te effects, and is the effects of drinking ove Different pat r the long-ter terns of con m. sumption can or long-term con tribute to sho harms as sho rtwn in Table 1. information that’s readily available for safety professionals. Click on their website, www.nceta.flinders.edu.au and you’ll find a comprehensive list of useful material including workplace resource kits and fact sheets. Booklets to download You can download a range of booklets in pdf form on topics such as Responding to Alcohol and other Drug Issues in the Workplace containing a comprehensive list of useful resources and contacts as well as fact sheets on drugs and alcohol. It’s all part of NCETA’s Information and Resource Package which is accompanied by a Training Kit designed to translate the latest research into practical guidelines for a best practice approach to alcohol and other drug related harm in the workplace. NCETA says its material is particularly useful for: • supervisors, managers, human resource and OHS&W personnel Table 1: Nat ional Health and Council Aus tralian Alcoho Medical Research l Guidelines Risk of sho rtterm harm Males (on any one day, no more than 3 days per wee k) Females (on any one day, no more than 3 days per wee k) Risk of long term harm Males On average day Overall wee kly level Females On average day Overall wee kly level Low risk Up to 6 (on any one day) Up to 4 (on any one day) Low risk Up to 4 (per day) Up to 28 (per week) Up to 2 (per day) Up to 14 (per week) Risky (Standard drin High risk ks*) 7 to 10 (on any one day) 5 to 6 (on any one day) 11 or more 7 or more Risky High risk (Hazardous **) (Harmf ul**) (Standard drin ks*) 5 to 6 7 or more (per day) (per day) 29 to 42 43 or more (per week) (per week) 3 to 4 5 or more (per day) (per day) 15 to 28 29 or more (per week) (per week) * a standard drink equals 10 ** NHMRC old (1992) term grams (12.5 millilitres) of alcohol inology whic h only applied to long-term risk It is also imp ortant to kno w how frequen drinks. Drin tly someone king at a risk y level on a different con weekly basis sequences has to doing so basis e.g., mo on a less frequen nthly or yea t rly. • representatives of employee and employer organisations • representatives of EAP and other workplace service counselling providers • workplace trainers and representatives of training organisations • community health and/or drug and alcohol workers. NCETA also offers advice on workplace alcohol and drug issues that can be tailored to individual workplaces. At the time of writing NCETA was developing a new website, so it’s worth checking their site occasionally for the latest information from this internationally recognised research centre. National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide SA 5001 Phone: 08 8201 7535 email: [email protected] Strong policy on drugs pays says screening company Drug and alcohol screening company, Frontline Diagnostics has found that mines with a proper drug-safe workplace policy and regular drug testing have about four per cent of their staff testing positive to drug and alcohol screening. 26 This is in comparison to 17 to 20 per cent for mines which have not introduced a policy or testing. These mines attract drug users because staff are generally aware of which mines do not enforce a policy. 27 Workplace drug testing The only laboratory NATA accredited for drug testing of oral fluids (AS 4760:2006) Improve your workplace drug testing services by offering safer, non-invasive oral fluid sampling ¤ Confirmatory ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ testing Prompt turnaround & client response State-of-the-art instrumentation Interpretation of results Expert testimony NATA testing to AS/NZS 4308:2008 (urine) Contact us today to discuss your testing needs Police tests keep ChemCentre busy O ne of the biggest clients for the services of ChemCentre, the new facility that’s been relocated to the Curtin University campus is the West Australian Police. The Police Department use ChemCentre extensively through their Commercial Agents section, that issues licences for security and crowd control agents. In accordance with the Security and Related Activities (Control) Act, 1996 licensed agents regularly undergo random drug testing. Random sampling of urine is performed whilst licensed agents are at work. Sampling agents while they’re at work has been a change in procedure that has resulted in an increased rate of positive cases. Prior to this. advanced notice of sampling was given to agents which in effect provided them with the opportunity to clear drugs from their system. ChemCentre also works with the Police, providing them with sampling kits and confirmation testing, as well as customised analyses and expert testimony where required. The screening services provided by ChemCentre followed by subsequent laboratory confirmation testing covers the four main drugs of abuse – amphetamines, cannabis, opiates and benzodiazepines. Anabolic steroids are targeted upon request. Other drugs can be can be tested for on request, though the overwhelming majority of positives indicate cannabis or amphetamine use. A spoksesperson for ChemCentre said the testing conducted on agents ensured not only a safer workplace for employees but also safer communities. She added that though their major drugs testing user was the Police Department, companies also used its services from time to time. ChemCentre is accredited to NATA standard AS/NZS 4308:2008 for urine testing and is currently the only laboratory accredited to NATA standard AS 4760:2006 for oral fluid (saliva) testing. Robert Hansson T +61 8 9422 9850 F +61 8 9422 9831 [email protected] Dr Francois Oosthuizen T +61 8 9422 9851 F +61 8 9422 9831 [email protected] CONTENT WRITING SERVICES Do you need text for brochures, newsletters, company reports, websites or white papers prepared? Media Support Services are specialists in the development of written material with a team of business writers and journalists available. chemcentre.wa.gov.au Call 1300 557 660. 28 Pub breathalysers found to be dangerously inaccurate W ith increasing awareness of the dangers of drink driving and the likelihood of being caught if you’re over the limit, breath analysis units in licensed premises could potentially provide drinkers with an important source of information on whether they’re fit to drive. Or could they? If they’re relying on the accuracy of Perth’s ‘coin-in-the-slot’ hotel breathalysers they might as well rely on sheer guess work and pot luck. A study of 36 hotel breathalysers conducted in 2002 by Dr Rina Cercarelli, a Senior Research Fellow of the National Drug Research Institute and Greg Hay of the West Australian Police, found only 25% of them accurate. Most alarmingly, some 45% underestimated the actual level of blood alcohol content (BAC), in effect telling drivers they were safe to drive when they weren’t. Servicing and calibrating the instruments was a grey area for managers and licensees so it’s hardly surprising these machines are inaccurate. Half of them were unaware of the servicing and calibration intervals, while no one seemed to know whether they were calibrated at the monthly or bimonthly services when the straws were replenished and the cash removed. And it’s not just managers and Police test foun d licensees in the dark over ‘coin-in- to match readingspopular breathalysers failed of police instru them a risky co ments makin the-slot’ breathalysers. mmodity to re g ly on. Studies have shown that only 30% of users wait the necessary 10 minutes or more after drinking before they test themselves and many users are unaware that their BAC can keep rising if their body is still absorbing alcohol. Despite the research being published back in 2004, Dr Cercarelli believes nothing has changed despite “pretty clear recommendations about what we needed to do about breath testing devices in public drinking places.” “There’s no reason for it to change - it’s not like all of a sudden purchased from pharmacies and service the public has decided to get serious stations. about it,” Dr Cercarelli said. There’s little Australian research on Time bomb While it’s yet to be tested before the courts Dr Cercarelli predicts it’s something of a legal timebomb, with licensees, managers and the manufacturers potentially liable should an accident occur to an intoxicated patron after an inaccurate reading from a breathalyser. Dr Cercarelli believes it’s a similar story with the cheap, consumer breathalysers that can be readily their accuracy, though Choice Magazine tested six models in 2005 to conclude it couldn’t recommend any of them. Dr Cercarelli believes it’s reasonable to assume they’re inaccurate. One British test of commonly available hand-held breathalysers conducted by car review website, Parker’s with the help of the West Yorkshire Police, found that every unit tested failed to match the reading of the police instrument, with more than half registering it was safe to drive when the police unit measured over the legal limit. Back belts out of favour Back belts, also known as lumbar or weight lifters’ belts or back support devices, designed to be worn by people performing some form of manual handling, particularly lifting weights are out of favour, being deemed as being of little value. According to a report from Worksafe Victoria the belief that they give support can be misleading as the support from the back belt doesn’t translate to a significant reduction in the stress on the spine and surrounding muscles and ligaments. Research by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), says that back belts provide a minimal reduction in compressive force and do not significantly reduce the risk of injury. Some research has found the highest compressive and shearing forces in the spine occur when wearing a belt. Furthermore they don’t reduce strain on muscles or reduce fatigue or increase the maximum weight a person can lift. The report says that studies have shown that wearing a back belt has a similar effect on the abdominal muscles to holding your breath. This causes increased pressure on the abdominal muscles which can lead to stiff and exaggerated postures. These postures may increase the potential for injury while the effect of increasing blood pressure and rate of respiration may increase the risk of heart attacks in susceptible people. 29 An absolute shocker Overseas happenings This shocker features workers failing to wear life vests, working overhead without eye protection, working on a scaffold not rated to support lateral pull from the tender boat plus a 6 metre salt water crocodile had been seen in the area only a week before. Major report into British construction fatalities T Photo cour tesy of WorkSafe Victoria personally responsible for injuries or he report and deaths on their building sites. recommendations The report says the construction of one of the most This week’sinquiries industry doesn’t appreciate the comprehensive into Absolute Shock er hig htrade positive role unions caneplay the underlying of lights con structiocauses som n near waterway hazar ands. labels the low level of reporting ds present in fatal accidents in the British of serious accidents as “a disgrace”. construction industry was Health and safety advisers need We’ll let th e reader who se The report was welcomed by delivered in July. accreditation to ensure they meet nt in these phot explain th a lobby group in Britain os called The Inquiry chaired by Rita e situatstandards appropriate ion: of professional “I sa w entitled theseOne ‘Families Against Corporate Killers’ Donaghy, Death Is Too blokes working competence, the Chair of the Health and . on the pier and noted Many began with a review of the Safety Executive (HSE) has said. : A spokesperson for the group, causal over the factors Judith Hackitt told guests at an International No lifofe fatalities vests - ha ve yoLinda died while last 10 years before examining more u evWhelan er triewhose Institute of Risk and Safety Management d to son swim w E on?reception in London this week that demolishing a factory chimney in ith PP recent construction fatalities. (IIRSM) Weight orkin g overhead with 2002 said “To allow directors of Twenty recommendations although HSE did not intend to run such a out ey protectio companies e to be less responsible have been made covering n. and scheme, it did consider one was necessary. representatives, accountable for their actions safety Is the scaffbuilding Ms Hackitt said: “We believe there is a old rated toless su pporand on health control, the legal system, training t asafety latethan running tide?” ralany an accreditation system within the puother ll from need the for tender person, is immoral and an insult and competence, and public (boat)for inhealth competency framework a and safety to my son Craig, and all the others procurement. professionals. He also noted th at a“positive killed in construction and They included imposing 6 metreneedlessly “Accreditation must include continuing long sa arduties” lt-water crocod ea onon lyDirectors a weekof pconstruction other workplaces.” ile wprofessional rior to this wor as repordevelopment ted in thasisa requirement k occurring! firms that would see them held as well as a means of sanction, with real “Safety advisers need accreditation” teeth, for anyone who acts unethically in their professional activities - including providing inappropriate advice or guidance.” She said that those involved in health and Absolute Shoc Inke what must rate as one of the most unlikely accidents of r of th e Week is publ mining and quar safety needed to be competent to assess and ish ed by Wof rying.aItman the year German city Dusseldorf up his orkS afe Victoriablew may in be the freely copied for to promote safer manage by applying common sense, taking su wo ch go rk to ww practices risk oses.air w.work apartment while attempting to repairpu a rp leaky To mattress. in construction safe.vic.gov.a receive Safety , ut u/construction Soapboxa a ilities proportionate approach and exercising , fre an e weekly em folthe low th The 45 year old used tire repair solvent on a holed in aire bed ailed newsletter links to the subs , criptionabout judgment what is reasonable. pa ge . and left it overnight. Competence is one of the cornerstones of When he went to inflate it the following day a spark from the the new health and safety strategy for Great electric air pump ignited it, causing a blast that pushed the living Britain, and HSE wants to see increased room wall into the building’s stairwell and extensively damaging competence as the basis of a more sensible and the walls, windows and furniture. proportionate approach to managing risk. The 12 apartment building was evacuated along with a HSE wants employers to have access to neighbouring house while fire fighters checked for structural competent, sensible advice from professional damage. advisors so that risks are properly managed and The hapless handyman suffered burns on his arms while a three unproductive measures and paperwork are not year old girl suffered first degree burns. pursued. Bed goes off with a bang 30 1 5 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 16 19 17 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Across 2. A special pile of dirt in mining 5. A type of law that may govern industrial manslaughter 8. Type of parking to enable a quick exit if required 10. Found in the toe of a work boot 11. Chronic respiratory disease 13. Work related hearing disorder (abbreviated) 16. A specific drug detected in urine 18. A line used in coal mining 19. Drug test regime 21. Something to do with welding 24. A wooden or steel spike used to prevent a rib from falling. 26. Where Ross River is 27. Used when working in a confined space 28. A disease transmitted via an animal's urine Down 1. Large lump of coal 3. Something you have to do before entering a workplace 4. West Australian OSH Department 6. Health test conducted every five years in WA (abbreviated) 7. New Australian OSH Laws aim to be.... 9. A serious strain of influenza (two words) 12. Seen as not performing a duty of care 14. Large mobile plant 15. A code that is not mandatory 17. ammonium nitrate mixed with fuel oil for explosives (abbreviated) 20. Location between the face and the surface of a mine 22. Type of access card 23. High visibility clothing worn around forklifts 25. When a seam is displaced upward 31 Fast track to suppliers contact details Custom hearing protection Healthy people. Healthy business www.soundhearing.com.au [email protected] Phone 1300 726 818 www.primehealth.com.au [email protected] Phone 1300 793 004 Protective clothing & respirators Satellite phones www.pro-val.com.au [email protected],au Phone 03 9558 2020 www.satellitephones.com.au [email protected] Phone 02 6335 5216 OHS courses on line Fire safety www.reachyourpotential.com.au [email protected] Phone 134 328 www.bullexsafety.com.au [email protected] Mobile 0466 598 969 Making safety count Noise & vibration measurement www.alegrasafety.com.au [email protected] Phone 089 314 2926 www.nvms.com.au [email protected] Phone 089 489 2099 Safety ladders Chemical testing www.branach.com.au [email protected] Phone 1800 244 624 www.chemcentre.wa.gov.au [email protected],au Phone 089 422 9800 Safety management systems First Aid & training resources www.protocolsafetymanagement.com.au [email protected] Phone 03 9449 1445 www.survivalemergencyproducts.com [email protected] Phone 02 9816 9912 Insulation coating materials Mole inspections www.mascoataustralia.com.au [email protected] Phone 089 240 5978 www.molescan.com.au [email protected] Phone 07 3378 6555 32 PUT SAFETY FIRST GET A SAT PHONE! Need a go-anywhere phone? One that is rugged, and everything is in the box? Then the Iridium 9555 could be the right choice for you! We have many options available for Iridium including PSTN numbering for easy integration into PABX! Some of our options are the cheapest on the market - including cheap to-Iridium calls! Iridium 9555 From $999inc!!! Yes, this is not a typo! OR Is a small, light and ‘in-your-pocket’ more what you need? If so, the Thuraya SO-2510 weighing in at just 170g, at just over 11cm long could be the choice for you - with loads of features including GPS positioning, and colour screen. Safecity has the widest range at fantastic prices! Our range includes Iridium, Thuraya, Inmarsat and VSAT www.satellitephones.com.au Thuraya SO-2510 From $999inc Safecity Services Pty Ltd. PHONE: (02) 6335 5216 FAX: (02) 6335 5229 Email: [email protected] Bulk pricing is also available. 33 YOUR FEEDBACK IS THE KEY Behaviour Based Safety: Making the Workplace a Safer Place to be One of the keys to reducing defensiveness is having structure when you provide feedback. So when giving feedback refer to the SAFER way™. People in the workplace continue to suffer debilitating and sometimes fatal injuries. In light of this, it is critical that organisations constantly monitor their safety strategy and review tools utilised to improve workplace safety. Giving feedback the SAFER way™: Behaviour Based Safety is one such tool that is aimed at preventing injuries and fatalities before they happen and promoting a positive safety culture. What is Behaviour Based Safety? a Start with all of the safe behaviours observed and be specific. For example, “Good to see you have the correct barricading in place”. a Ask how they feel they can carry out their job safer and engage them with an open ended question. For example, “Now that you have had a chance to step back, what do you think could be done safer?” a Feedback on any of the at-risk behaviours you have observed. “One thing I noticed was these tools might be a trip hazard, what are your thoughts?” a Explore solutions to at-risks together. “What can we do with these tools?” a Reinforce one or two outstanding safe behaviours observed. End on a positive. Behaviour Based Safety focuses on the safety related behaviours of people in the workplace. Once implemented, Behaviour Based Safety involves the following key factors: 1. Observation of safe and at-risk behaviours. 2. Providing positive feedback on safe behaviours observed. 3. Providing corrective and constructive feedback on at- risk behaviours observed. 4. Correcting systems and procedures that prevent people from working safely. Although all of the elements above are essential parts of a Behaviour Based Safety process, feedback and more so, the way it is delivered, is essential to achieving success and facilitating the behavioural change process. Who are we at PSB Solutions? By providing feedback the SAFER way™, you are not only providing balanced feedback but are also facilitating engagement. PSB Solutions are specialists in facilitating positive lasting change due to their intricate knowledge and application of psychological strategies to the areas of People, Safety and Business improvement. Our solutions to organisational concerns include Occupational Health and Safety Solutions, Behaviour Based Safety, Leadership Coaching, Employee Selection, Training and Development. Contact us for more information and visit our website at www.psbsolutions.com.au The Importance of Feedback The way you provide safety feedback to a person, will either break or make the change effort and the integrity of your Behaviour Based Safety process. So how is it that we can provide feedback the right way to help people accept feedback and reduce their defensiveness? To order PSB Solutions’ The SAFER Way™ of Feedback pocket cards for your Leaders and Personnel to use in the field as a prompt please call us on 08 9489 3900 The pitfall with safety feedback is that we only tend to provide it when something is wrong. This means that people often start and finish with the negatives. This immediately puts people on the defensive and cancels out any positive feedback. PSB Solutions, Suite 5, Level 1, 337 Rokeby Road, Subiaco, WA 6008 www.psbsolutions.com.au [email protected] Tel: 08 9489 3900 34
© Copyright 2024