Are you unsure of how to implement WHS safety procedures into your workplace? 

Anzen Consulting is a leading provider of strategic and contemporary solutions to Workplace Health and Safety (WHS). Previously known as Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), the realm of WHS involves various facets that impact the management and preservation of health, safety, and welfare within the workplace. 

In this guide, we’ll explain the 9 Procedures Every Good Workplace in Australia Must Have. By developing your understanding of this topic you can effectively implement these insights, and your organisation can not only safeguard the well-being of your employees but also mitigate the likelihood of serious workplace accidents.

• Risk Assessment and Management Procedures 

• Training and Education Procedures 

• Emergency Evacuation Procedures

• Fire Safety Procedures 

• Housekeeping Procedures

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Usage

• Machine Safety Procedures

• Hazardous Material & Storage Procedures

• Reporting & Incident Investigation Procedures

For help implementing your WHS plan, or for expert guidance, get in touch with our team today.

Risk Assessment and Management Procedures

Risk Assessment and Management is the backbone of workplace safety. It is proactive, a legal requirement and a crucial cultural element for creating a safer, adaptable work environment. It systematically identifies potential hazards and evaluates their associated risks, ensuring:

• Hidden dangers are uncovered, from slippery floors to machinery issues.
• Tailored safety measures are implemented based on risk severity.
• Legal compliance with WHS legislation is maintained.
• Preventive actions are taken to mitigate identified risks.
• Employee involvement fosters a safety culture.
• Continuous adaptation to evolving workplace conditions is possible 

To emphasise this point and build on creating a safer working environment, competent individuals should perform and regularly use appropriate resources like Hazard Identification checklists to assess risks. With the help of management and workforce consultation, organisations can clearly identify, monitor and update procedures to ensure the highest level of care and safety.

Training and Education Procedures

Training and Education, in the realm of workplace safety, is the cornerstone of a compliant work environment. These initiatives provide employees with knowledge and skills to navigate the unique challenges and risks they may experience. Within an organisation, newcomers can benefit from a thorough induction, whilst existing employees can receive ongoing training with updated safety practices.

Ultimately, education and training cultivate a culture of safety, empowering individuals to actively participate in hazard recognition, protocol adherence, and effective emergency responses.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures

Emergency Evacuation Procedures within the workplace is a non-negotiable for any organisation. Though it may seem obvious and easy to understand, this procedure serves a paramount role in minimising the risk of serious injury and or incidents.

Every workplace carries the responsibility of adhering to this procedure to ensure the well-being of employees during evacuations and fire breaks. In alignment to the guidelines set in the Safe Work Australia Model Code of Practice 2011, this procedure is constructed and designed to reduce and manage risks of individuals and property. 

In essence, comprehensive evacuation procedures encompass the following critical elements:

• Detailed Evacuation Plan: A structured plan that outlines the precise steps to be taken during an evacuation. 

• Establishment and Identification of Emergency Exits and Stations: Clearly marking emergency exits and assembly points so that employees can easily navigate to safety during an emergency.

• Chain of Command and Lines of Communication: Establishing a clear hierarchy of responsibility and communication channels, ensuring that everyone knows their role and how to relay critical information.

• Notification and Emergency Services: Implementing a robust system for notifying emergency services promptly and efficiently. 

• Training and Drills: Conducting training sessions and evacuation drills to prepare employees for real-life emergencies, enhancing their ability to respond effectively.

• Regular Reviews: Continuously evaluating and updating evacuation procedures to align with changing workplace dynamics and emerging best practices.

Fire Safety Procedures 

Almost all building codes establish the minimum fire protection standard across their property. Fire safety procedures in the workplace are paramount for safeguarding employees and visitors. The measures and planning of these standards ‘must’ be integrated during the planning and construction of any building.

Procedures may differ depending on factors such as building size, purpose, location occupancy and construction materials, with extra precaution taken on the nature of the business, the environment and workforce size. Refer back to Safe Work Australia to view an in depth guide of what your emergency plan should cover, include and important elements to consider. 

We’ve constructed a short yet comprehensive fire safety guide with key components to ensure your organisation is up to date: 

• Fire Risk Assessment: Having a plan of action and identifying dangers is the first step. Identify fire hazards, potential ignition sources and the safety of individuals. 

• Alert Systems: Implement quick and effective methods for alerting employees in the event of a fire emergency.

• Response Protocols: Clearly define how employees should react when a fire alarm sounds or a fire emergency occurs with regular training and sessions. 

• Evacuation Routes and Exits: Designate primary evacuation routes and exits, ensuring they are well-marked and easily accessible, again with regular training. 

• Firefighting Guidelines: Clearly outline the conditions under which employees should attempt to extinguish a fire and provide appropriate training. 

• Provision of Equipment: Ensure the availability and accessibility of firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers.

Housekeeping Procedures

A note in Housekeeping Procedures, prevention is always better than cure. Maintaining a clean and organised workplace is more than just how it appeals, its main objective is to keep employees and visitors safe. Poor housekeeping, often a ‘small’ issue at hand, can result in dangerous incidents that were not ever necessary. 

For example, slips often stem from inadequate housekeeping practices, which can be indicative of a lack of systems and responsibilities regarding storage, maintenance and cleaning. 

We’ve compiled a table of context of the differences.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Usage

When minimising risks, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) serves as the ultimate one of the last lines of defence against potential workplace hazards. Depending on your organisation’s needs, PPE varies depending on the nature of the workplace.

For example, within the construction business, employees will need hard hat helmets to safeguard against falling objects or when lab scientists conduct practicals, safety goggles are needed to prevent chemical splashes. Safe Work Australia gives a greater insight into choosing the right PPE and workers responsibilities.

Furthermore, knowing the theory of equipment and utilities within the respective field is also a fundamental part. Thus, conducting regular and updated policies and sessions is a must, to ensure the proper usage and understanding of PPE.

Machine Safety Procedures

The South Australian Department of Education has signified the importance of Machine Safety Procedures within Australian workplaces. We must know that these procedures play a pivotal role in Workplace Health & Safety by preventing major incidents and ensuring safe and smooth operations.

Comprehensive training for this matter is very important. Workers must be fully aware and capable of how to operate machinery but also understand risks and potential signs of random malfunction. Updated policies and practices allow workers to make informed decisions and take proactive steps to avert accidents.

Fortunately, some machinery with today’s technology includes safety guards that act as physical barriers or sensor-based systems, but can prevent catastrophic accidents but it is essential to know the theory and practical usage of how these machines operate.

To note; machine safety procedures encompass safety guards, regular maintenance checks and comprehensive training. Prioritising these measures not only safeguards employees but also enhances productivity and fosters a workplace culture where safety is paramount.

Hazardous Material & Storage Procedures

As many workplaces handle chemicals, some of which can pose a health hazard through inhalation, ingestion or contact; Hazardous Materials & Storage Procedures become another critical aspect that requires deep WHS planning and attention. To ensure the safety of all, precautionary measures come into play, such as;

• Specific labelling of chemical containers is mandatory because each employee must be aware of any chemical risks and dangerous goods. Organisations can attain labelling provided by Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which outline detailed information about the properties and potential hazards of the substances. 

• Having designated storage and protective areas with these substances is highly recommended and clarifies that hazardous items are in controlled environments. 

• Rigorous training on safe handling procedures is a must, especially for those who handle chemicals directly. For example, a training guide encompassess aspects such as the correct method of transferring chemicals, the importance of fume hoods to minimise exposure and steps of action during incidents. These measures collectively promote safe handling, storage, and response to chemical-related incidents, ensuring the well-being of employees and the prevention of accidents. 

Staying informed and cautious of these tasks can strengthen the productivity of workforces and the management of risk awareness within the workforce.

Reporting & Incident Investigation Procedures

Reporting & Incident Investigation Procedures come into play and are often handled by management when overviewing a workplace incident. Accidents can often be avoided by adhering to proper accident investigation and reporting protocols. In this process, management of businesses must follow established procedures for effective reporting. This process not only facilitates the correct implementation of safety measures but also plays a crucial role in addressing workplace safety and liability concerns. 

The scope of investigation typically encompasses incidents involving injuries, fatalities, loss of work time, or damage to property. Below is a guide showing important steps of reporting an incident: 

• Promptly reporting the incident to the designated officer and relevant government authorities. 
• Securing the incident scene to preserve evidence and ensure the safety of all. 
• Swiftly gathering information from witnesses and CCTV footage to compile a comprehensive account of events. 
• Analysing the collected facts and the sequence of events, to pinpoint any actions, inactions or conditions that may have infringed the accident. 
• Documenting findings in the detailed written report, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
• Implementing actions based on the investigation’s outcomes to prevent future accidents.
• Conducting a thorough review of the entire incident investigation process to identify areas for improvement and enhance the safety measures involved around the workplace.

By following these rigorous accident investigation and reporting procedures, organisations can not only prevent serious accidents but also create and reinforce the safety around the workplace effectively.

What is the Importance of Implementing WHS Policies and Procedures in Your Organisation? 

It’s vital to know why your organisation must include these essential Policies and Procedures to ensure workplace safety and security. They include:  

Guidance on Recognising and Resolving Safety Concerns:

Creating a descriptive WHS Policy provides clear instructions for employees to identify and mitigate potential safety risks in the workplace in a timely manner. If a specific hazard rises, referring to the WHS Policy can serve as a tool for addressing and resolving it. 

Creating a Workplace Safety Culture:

The implementation of dedicated WHS Policies and Procedures plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of safety and accountability for any organisation. To enhance the effectiveness of workplace safety, motivating employees to adhere to the safety protocols and rewarding their responsible behaviour is an effective yet simple strategy that helps create a positive and safe working culture. 

Enhancing Clarity on Expectations and Responsibilities: 

Policies and Procedures establish a consistent set of behavioural norms and expectations related to the health and safety for all members of the organisation. They also serve as a tool for ensuring accountability among individuals for their actions.

Streamlining Accident and Incident Reporting: 

In the rare instance of workplace accidents and incidents, the implementation of WHS Policies and Procedures help provide an efficient and clear guideline on what to do next. This ensures that employees have full accessibility to the correct channels and protocols when dealing with injuries or health related concerns in a timely manner. 

Enforcing Compliance with WHS Policies:

A well-structured WHS policy serves as a safeguard to ensure organisational compliance with safety regulations. Furthermore, it provides the necessary framework for taking corrective and disciplinary measures against individuals who fail to adhere to these procedures. 

Enhancing Performance and Employee Productivity: 

A major benefit of prioritising WHS Policies and Procedures within an organisation is the efficiency that increases and the work disruptions that decrease from accidents and illnesses. Employees also gain a sense of security and confidence in their work environment, translating into improved productivity as they can concentrate on their tasks without concerns about workplace hazards. 

Why Your Organisation Needs WHS Policies and Procedures. Having a robust set of WHS Policies and Procedures not only showcases the organisation’s genuine commitment to health and safety but serves as concrete proof of its dedication to following the Australian Government obligations outlined in the WHS Act (2011).

Beyond this, it lies as a guide that saves time. Offering ready-made templates and materials for addressing WHS concerns. The policies also act as a valuable guide and benchmark for employees, explicitly defining acceptable behaviours while fostering a sense of wellness and belonging within the workplace.

What are WHS Policies?

Let’s define what Work, Health and Safety Policies are; They include written documents specific to your business’ industry. WHS Policies encompass documented guidelines that govern the approach an organisation takes to address safety concerns within the workplace. Having a tailored made guideline can ensure a clear and unified understanding of safety protocols among all employees. 

In Australia, written WHS documents are mandatory for organisations, they provide a clear and formalised statement of the company’s intentions regarding the wellbeing and safety of its employees. In WHS Policies, you’ll tend to find the organisation’s values, objectives, responsibilities and framework for managing health and safety within the workplace. It serves as a certification of the company’s dedication to creating a safe work environment. 

What are WHS Procedures?

Once the framework of WHS Policies are formed, it’s time for action within the workplace. These include practical step-by-step guidelines that detail how specific tasks or activities should be carried out in a safe and professional manner.

Procedures are easier to follow, with instructions provided to employees on how to perform their tasks whilst minimising risks. Basic procedures include, using equipment safely, responding to emergencies, reporting incidents and more. The implementation of procedures are designed to ensure that everyone understands and follows the best practices to prevent accidents and injuries