Page 74 - Build 151

Health and safety
H&S system
We know that we need to manage the health and safety of our workers, visitors and contractors, but the question is how? What’s needed is a system that handles this, such as the one outlined here.
BY BRIAN COOK, BRANZ HEALTH AND SAFETY ADVISOR
AN H&S MANAGEMENT SYSTEM provides a systematic way to identify hazards and control risks while maintaining assurance that these risk controls are e ective. It is a business-like approach to safety.
As with all management systems, an H&S management system provides for goal setting, planning and measuring performance. It is woven into the fabric of an organisation and becomes part of the culture. It becomes the way people do their jobs.
How do we do this?
Start by developing a series of documents to control and manage the hazards and risks. This will change depending on what risks are present at your company.
Policies
Policies are a statement of intent. They are a document that says you are committed to H&S on a particular topic. Examples are:
● ageneralH&Spolicy
● adrugsandalcoholpolicy
● amanualhandlingpolicy.
Risk assessments
Risk assessments look at the workplace hazards – who can be harmed, how they can be harmed and a measure of their impact and likelihood. This gives an assessment of the risk to the person.
Record what is done to lower the risk and any further things that can be done to keep the risk low or lower the risk further (improvements).
Method statements
A method statement provides a common-sense approach to carrying out a task. It is a step-by-step set of instructions for people to
follow to do the task without harm to themselves or others. Method statements are often written following manufacturers’ instructions or government or industry guidance.
Forms
Forms are used to document that the H&S management system is being followed and check that safety checks are carried out.
Forms provide a way of proving to employees and the authorities your dedication to a positive H&S culture.
Toolbox talks
Toolbox talks provide a system of documenting the important points of H&S that can be easily and openly discussed with employees. They usually last around 15 minutes and should concentrate on a single topic. It’s a ‘bite size’ piece of information given to workers and is a two-way discussion.
Reviewing
Reviewing is looking at the H&S management system to make sure it is up to date and hasn’t missed anything. For example, the introduction of new equipment or methods may mean new hazards.
This is the nal piece of an H&S management system and needs to include:
● a yearly audit of the H&S management system
● safety inspections when work is being carried out
● encouraging worker involvement to discuss any changes to the
way work is done and to spot new hazards.
More to come
In following issues of Build, we will take a closer look at each element and give ideas on how to comply with the legislation. Watch this space!
72 — December 2015/January 2016 — Build 151
FEATURE SECTION