Employers with 20 or more employees must keep a copy of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and Regulations readily accessible at the workplace. This is a legal obligation designed to promote safety and compliance.

Reasons for Keeping OHS Regulations Available:

• Empowers Employees: Easy access lets workers review safety information anytime, understand their rights and duties, follow proper procedures, and recognize hazards.

• Promotes Safety Culture: Visible regulations encourage shared responsibility for safety and remind management of their legal duties.

• Supports Compliance: Helps during audits and inspections by showing due diligence, reducing risks of fines, legal problems, and work stoppages.

• Facilitates Training and Communication: Acts as a key resource for new employee orientation, ongoing safety training, and consistent communication of safety standards.

• Improves Workplace Safety and Productivity: Understanding and following rules reduces accidents, boosts morale, decreases absenteeism, and enhances productivity.

What is the Health and Safety Committee?

A Health and Safety Committee is a team of employer and employee representatives that works together to ensure workplace safety and legal compliance.

Purpose

Ensures compliance

Promotes a preventative safety culture

Provides safety collaboration

Legal Requirements

When an employer has 20 or more employees

Key Functions of the Committee

Review health and safety practices

Conduct inspections and investigations

Recommend improvements

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) consists of gear worn by workers to protect against workplace hazards and reduce the risk of injury or illness. Examples include protective clothing, specialized gear, fall protection devices, and health safety equipment.

Why is PPE Needed?

• Employers must assess workplace risks and provide PPE when hazards cannot be eliminated.

• PPE protects workers from physical, chemical, biological, and other hazards.

• It is legally required to be provided free and kept available at the workplace (except when taken for cleaning or repair).

• Proper training on PPE use is essential to ensure effective protection.

Supervision of machinery means overseeing the safe and compliant operation of machines, led by a competent person who has the knowledge, training, and experience to identify hazards and enforce safety measures.

Who is a Competent Person?

A competent person is someone qualified to ensure machinery operates safely, complies with regulations, and hazards are managed effectively.

Purpose:

• Ensure machinery is operated safely and according to legal and safety standards.

• Prevent accidents and injuries related to machine use.

• Maintain compliance with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations.

Key Functions of Machinery Supervision:

• Provide training and authorization for machine operators.

• Conduct regular machine inspections and maintenance.

• Ensure safety guards and protective covers are installed and intact.

• Isolate and shut down faulty machinery immediately.

• Develop and enforce safe work procedures.

• Ensure compliance with OHS and specific equipment regulations (e.g., pressure and electrical machinery).

• Manage changes to machinery and maintain technical records.

• Perform root cause analysis on incidents and implement corrective actions.

• Lead safety culture, provide employee guidance, and raise risk awareness.

• Enforce dress code safety rules (e.g., no loose clothing or long hair near machines).

Driven machinery refers to powered industrial machines used to cut, shape, or finish materials.

Hazards Associated with Driven Machinery:

• Contact with rotating parts

• Getting caught in projections or gaps

• Hands caught between moving parts

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Requirements:

• Guarding: Install point-of-operation guards to prevent contact with dangerous parts.

• Anti-Repeat Devices: Prevent unintentional repeated operation.

• Presence Sensing Systems: Detect workers’ presence and stop machines if necessary.

• Safe Working Procedures: Establish and enforce clear protocols.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide and enforce use of appropriate PPE.

• Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Ensure machinery is safe and functional.

• Training: Provide comprehensive operator training focused on hazard awareness and safe machine use.

Responsibilities of Employers:

• Identify and control workplace hazards related to machinery.

• Ensure safe work practices are in place and followed.

• Provide protective gear and equipment.

• Train and supervise machine operators.

Responsibilities Employees:

• Be accountable for personal safety and compliance.

• Follow all safety procedures and protocols.

• Report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.

• Maintain a tidy and safe work environment.

Fire-fighting equipment consists of tools designed to extinguish fires during emergencies.

OHS Requirements for Fire-Fighting Equipment:

• Equipment must be strategically located throughout the building.

• The quantity and type depend on the amount of flammable liquids stored.

• Follow recommendations from local fire authorities to ensure compliance.

• Fire-fighting equipment must be regularly inspected and maintained by trained personnel.

• Equipment should be clearly marked and kept unobstructed.

• Employees must be trained in the correct use of fire-fighting equipment.

• Conduct regular fire drills and have clear emergency evacuation plans.

Housekeeping is the practice of keeping the workplace clean, organized, and hazard-free.
Storage Controls involve the safe arrangement, labelling, and storage of materials, tools, and equipment to prevent accidents and risks.

OHS Requirements:

• Keep floors and walkways clear of hazards

• Store tools and equipment properly

• Maintain unobstructed access to exits, passageways, and emergency equipment

• Follow daily waste disposal procedures

• Train employees in safe storage and housekeeping

• Remove waste materials (e.g., rags, cotton) daily

• Limit flammable liquids in work areas to a day’s supply

• Seal containers when not in use

• Keep rooms, cabinets, and ventilation systems clean

• Use non-sparking tools when vapor levels exceed 25% of the explosive limit

Portable electric lights are movable, hand-held lighting devices, such as work lamps, flashlights, and inspection lights, used in areas with poor or no fixed lighting.

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Requirements:

• Use only approved and properly insulated lights.

• Use low-voltage lighting in confined spaces.

• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance.

• Provide staff training on correct and safe usage.

• Use intrinsically safe lighting in hazardous or explosive environments.

Learner Portable electric lights are movable, hand-held lighting devices—such as work lamps, flashlights, and inspection lights—designed for use in areas with poor or no fixed lighting.

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Requirements:

• Use only approved and properly insulated lights.

• Use low-voltage lighting in confined spaces.

• Carry out regular inspections and maintenance.

• Provide staff training on correct and safe usage.

• Use intrinsically safe lighting in hazardous or explosive environments.

Why Report Accidents and Diseases?

• Ensure legal compliance.

• Enable timely medical care.

• Identify root causes to prevent recurrence.

• Facilitate compensation processes.

Employer Obligations:

• Report all work-related injuries and diseases within 7 days.

Reportable Incidents Include:

• Fatal accidents.

• Injuries causing 14 or more days off work.

• Occupational diseases.

• Loss of consciousness or loss of a limb.

• Chemical spills exceeding 159 liters (42 gallons).

What is Emergency Equipment and First Aid?

• Emergency equipment: Workplace devices for handling emergencies, e.g., fire extinguishers, eyewash stations, alarms.

• First aid: Immediate care for injuries or sudden illnesses to prevent further harm and preserve life.

Occupational Health and Safety Requirements:

• Employers must ensure prompt first aid for workplace injuries.

• 5+ employees → Workplace must have first aid kits.

• First aid kits must contain appropriate supplies.

• 10+ employees → At least one trained First Aider required.

• First aiders must be trained in chemical exposure response.

• Clear signage must indicate locations of first aid kits and First Aiders.

• Employees with open wounds handling hazardous substances must report injuries.

• Eyewash stations required where chemical eye hazards exist.

• Emergency showers required in areas with toxic substances.

What are Hazardous Chemical Substances?

• Materials that can harm health, safety, or the environment.

Occupational Health and Safety Requirements:

• Protect workers and the environment from exposure.

• Conduct a full risk assessment before use.

• Ensure substances are clearly identified.

• Use Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for guidance.

• All containers must be properly labelled.

• Train workers on risks and safe handling procedures.

• Provide and enforce the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• Establish and communicate emergency plans.

• Report if storage quantities exceed legal limits.

• Dispose of chemicals using approved methods.

What are Lifting Machines & Tackle?

• Lifting Machines: Equipment that moves heavy loads using mechanical force.

• Lifting Tackle: Accessories used to secure loads during lifting operations.

Occupational Health and Safety Requirements:

• Clearly mark machines with safe load limits.

• Equip machines with safety stops to hold loads securely.

• Use hooks designed to prevent accidental release.

• Perform load testing after assembly and at least annually.

• Inspect ropes and chains every 6 months.

• Inspect lifting tackle quarterly.

• Ensure operators are trained for lifts exceeding 5 tons.

What are Notifiable Substances?

• Hazardous materials posing serious health, safety, and environmental risks.

Who to Notify?

• The Chief Inspector of Factories.

Why Notify the Chief Inspector?

• It is a legal requirement.

• Enables government oversight and regulation.

• Supports safe handling and emergency preparedness.

Examples of Notifiable Substances:

• Asbestos – hazardous fibres

• Gasoline – flammable liquid

• Pesticides – toxic chemicals

• Acetylene – compressed gas

• Iodine-131 – radioactive material

• Lead – heavy metal

• Benzene – volatile organic compound

• Sulfuric Acid – corrosive substance

What is Storage of Flammable Liquids?

Flammable liquids are substances that ignite easily. Their use and storage—including handling, dispensing, and containment—must follow strict controls to prevent fire hazards.

Hazards:

• Fire and explosion

• Toxic exposure

• Environmental pollution

• Asphyxiation risk in confined spaces

OHS Requirements for Safe Use and Storage:

• No work allowed where flammable vapours pose a fire risk.

• Use only in fire-resistant, well-ventilated rooms.

• Ventilation must include blowers and exhaust fans.

• Storage areas require a 2-hour fire-resistant barrier.

• All liquid must be fully contained.

• Maximum volume limits must be clearly displayed.

Common Flammable Liquids:

• Gasoline

• Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)

• Methanol

• Paint Thinners

• Turpentine

• Diesel

• Kerosene

• Benzene

What Are Welding, Cutting and Soldering?

Metalworking processes using heat to join or cut metals.

OHS Requirements:

• Training for safe operations

• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safe workplace setup

• Special procedures for confined spaces

• Regular equipment maintenance

• Fire prevention measures

• First aid readiness

• Risk assessments and medical surveillance

• Designated work areas

• Proper ventilation and work surfaces

• Fire extinguishers on site

• Permit-to-work system

What Is It?

Tasks performed at elevated locations where there is a risk of falling.

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Requirements:

• Proper use of ladders and scaffolding

• Use of fall protection systems

• Worker training on hazards and safety procedures

• Risk assessments and hazard control plans

• Rescue procedures prepared and practiced

• Continuous monitoring and supervision

What is a Ladder?

A ladder is equipment made of bars or steps designed for climbing up or down.

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Requirements:

• Proper ladder selection based on the task

• Regular inspections before use

• Ensure ladder stability on firm ground

• Always maintain three points of contact (two hands + one foot or two feet + one hand)

• Use non-conductive ladders for electrical work to prevent shocks

What is a Hoist?

A hoist is a mechanical device used to lift and lower heavy loads safely.

OHS Regulation Requirements for Hoist Safety:

1. Hatchway Enclosure:
   Must block access to moving parts and prevent unauthorized entry.

2. Landing Entrance Doors/Gates:
   Must remain closed and include interlocks that stop hoist operation if opened.

3. Automatic Power Cut-off:
   Must immediately stop the hoist if any safety conditions are breached.

4. Load-Securing Mechanism:
   Must securely hold loads and comply with safety standards.

5. Conveyance Enclosure:
   Must prevent falls and protect workers from falling objects.

6. Load-Bearing Components:
   Must support rated loads and be regularly inspected for wear or damage.

7. Control Restrictions:
   Must have accessible controls with lockout/tagout capability.

8. Inspection & Maintenance:
   Must be inspected and maintained regularly as per recommended schedules.

9. Safety Notices:
   Must display clear safety signs and operating instructions.

10. Prohibition on Riding:
    Riding on the hoist is strictly prohibited; signs must be posted to prevent misuse.

What is Demolition and Excavation?

• Demolition: Planned dismantling or tearing down of buildings or structures.

• Excavation: Digging or removing soil to prepare land for construction or utilities.

OHS Requirements:

1. Notification:
   Inform the Department of Labour before starting work.

2. Competent Supervision:
   Appoint a competent person to oversee operations.

3. Risk Assessment:
   Conduct a thorough risk assessment prior to commencement.

4. Site Safety:
   Ensure the site is properly fenced and guarded to prevent unauthorized access.

5. Excavation Safety:
   Assess ground stability to prevent collapses.

6. Demolition Safety:
   Monitor stability of adjoining structures.

7. Personal Protective Equipment:
   Provide and enforce use of appropriate PPE.

8. Emergency Procedures:
   Develop and communicate clear evacuation plans.

9. Training:
   Train workers on safe work practices specific to demolition and excavation.

10. Inspections:
    Regularly inspect the work area for hazards.

11. Incident Reporting:
    Report and investigate any incidents promptly.

What is an Electrical Installation?

• A system of wiring, switches, lighting, and power outlets distributing electricity within a building.

• Must be installed by a qualified electrician holding a Wireman’s License or a registered electrical contractor.

• Ensures safety, reliability, and compliance with legal standards.

User’s Responsibilities

• Maintain the installation in safe, functional condition.

• Ensure ongoing compliance with electrical standards.

• Responsible for the safety of power cables connecting to the electricity supplier.

Certificate of Compliance (CoC)

• Required for all electrical installations.

• Must be updated after any additions or alterations.

• Must be available for inspection by electrical inspectors or power suppliers.

Inspections and Consequences

• Power suppliers can inspect/test installations at reasonable times.

• Defects must be corrected promptly; a new CoC may be required.

• Immediate danger results in disconnection of power supply.

• Negligence can be reported to the Chief Inspector of Factories.

What is a High-Voltage System?

• Powers large industrial equipment.

• Common in sectors like power generation and transmission.

Hazards of High-Voltage Electrical Work

• Electric shock.

• Arc flash incidents.

• Fire and explosions.

• Equipment failure.

OHS Requirements for High-Voltage Work

• Only trained and certified personnel may perform the work.

• Strict lockout and tagout procedures must be followed.

• Workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Regular safety inspections and risk assessments are mandatory.

What is an Electric Fence?

• Electrified wires delivering mild shocks.

• Used to contain or exclude animals.

OHS Requirements

• Comply with OHS regulations.

• Obtain neighbour’s permission if applicable.

• Ensure correct bracket positioning.

• Follow standard height requirements.

• Incorporate safety factors in fence design.

• Prohibit electrified barbed wire.

• Install visible warning signs.

• Prevent entanglement risks.

Why Machinery Safety Notices?

• Warn employees about potential hazards.

• Promote safe use of equipment.

• Ensure compliance with safety laws.

• Prevent accidents, injuries, and damage.

Key Elements:

• Notices must be clearly visible and easy to read.

• Highlight specific machine hazards.

• Provide thorough training related to notices.

• Include clear, step-by-step operating instructions.

• Display notices in all common workplace languages.

Purpose of Safety Notices:

• Warn employees of hazards.

• Promote safe machine operation.

• Ensure legal compliance.

• Prevent accidents and damage.

What is Stacking?

The orderly placement of goods or materials on top of each other for storage or transport.

Hazards of Improper Stacking:

• Stack collapse.

• Falling objects.

• Trip and slip risks.

• Manual handling injuries.

• Fire hazards from poor material placement.

• Blocked emergency exits.

• Obstructed visibility.

Occupational Health and Safety Requirements:

• Supervised by a competent person.

• Bases must be level and strong enough to support the weight.

• Lower tiers must safely support upper tiers.

• Use items of uniform size, shape, and weight.

• Use only pallets and containers in good condition.

• Remove items from the top only.

• Do not climb on stacks unless safe access is provided.

• Protect stacks from hazards like moving vehicles.

What is Scaffolding?

• A temporary structure supporting workers and materials during construction, maintenance, or repairs.

Scaffolding Hazards to Consider:

1. Falls from height

2. Scaffold collapse

3. Falling objects

4. Electrocution

5. Slips, trips, and falls on the platform

6. Unsafe access

7. Weather hazards

8. Improper use or modification

Occupational Health and Safety Requirements:

• Fall protection systems in place

• Safe erection and dismantling procedures

• Regular scaffold inspections

• Competent supervision throughout use

• Adherence to load capacity limits

• Proper bracing and stability

• Safe and secure access points

• Good platform conditions

• Worker training on scaffold safety

• Installation of guardrails and toe boards

• Maintain clearance from hazards

• Compliance with applicable regulations

What is Supervision of Building Work?

• Overseeing and managing all construction site activities and operations.

• Ensures work follows plans and standards.

• Minimizes risks and enforces safety.

• Guarantees quality and legal compliance.

OHS Requirements for Supervision:

• Principal contractors, construction managers, supervisors, and safety officers have defined responsibilities.

• All must ensure a safe and compliant work environment.

Definition of a Competent Person:

• Construction Manager

• Assistant Construction Manager

• Construction Health and Safety Officer

• Full-Time Supervisor

• Subordinate Supervisors

• Inspectors hold authority to enforce compliance.

What is Roof Work?

Involves installing, repairing, and maintaining roofs to ensure structural integrity.

Who Works on Roofs?

• Roofers

• Builders

• Plumbers

• Heating and ventilation installers

• Air conditioning installers

• Painters

• Telecommunications equipment installers

• Demolition contractors

• Home/property owners or inspectors

• Chimney sweeps and others

OHS Requirements for Roof Work

• Working at Height: Use safe roof access equipment

• Fall Protection: Use fall arrest systems

• Safety Equipment: Use ladders, duckboards, and safety belts

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety harness, hard hat, eye protection, gloves, non-slip footwear

• Weather Conditions: Be cautious of strong winds, wet or icy surfaces, UV radiation

• Roof Condition: Ensure sound structure and identify fragile surfaces

• Competent Supervision: Regular monitoring, addressing safety concerns, risk assessments, PPE checks, weather monitoring, clear communication

• Training: Raise awareness and ensure worker preparedness

What is Work in Confined Spaces?

A confined space is an enclosed area with limited entry and exit, not intended for continuous occupancy.

Hazards of Confined Spaces:

• Oxygen deficiency

• Toxic or flammable gases

• Engulfment risks

• Heat stress or cold exposure

• Limited visibility and space

• Physical obstructions

• Difficult rescue access

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Requirements:

• Test confined spaces using portable gas detectors.

• Continuous gas monitoring during work.

• Record all entries and exits in a register.

• Purge the space with air blowers and movers before entry.

• Remove workers immediately if gas levels rise above safe limits.

• Use breathing apparatus if ventilation is insufficient.

• A trained attendant must remain outside for emergency response.

• All workers must exit once work is completed.

What Is Electrical Machinery in Hazardous Locations?

Electrical machines operating in areas with fire or explosion risks.

Hazardous Location Zones:

• Zone 0: Flammable gases always present.

• Zone 1 & Zone 2: Flammable gases present less frequently but still hazardous.

• Electrical equipment must be Ex-rated — designed specifically for these hazardous areas.

Hazards of Electrical Machinery in Hazardous Locations:

• Explosion or fire risk

• Electrocution

• Equipment failure causing downtime and injuries

• Toxic exposure

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Requirements:

• Conduct thorough risk assessments.

• Use and maintain Ex-rated electrical equipment.

• Provide specialized training for workers.

• Perform regular inspections and maintenance.