Pre-empting risks at the design phase of your workplace is the ideal way to reduce risk for your organisation. By assessing the risk of work tasks and equipment ahead of time, risks are less likely to be introduced.
When designing your workplace, ensure:
- work flows smoothly and sequentially
- workstations are adjustable and ergonomic to suit people of all sizes and capabilities
- there is physical separation between your workers, moving vehicles and dangerous equipment
- adequate planning is conducted for relocations, refurbishments or the introduction of new engineering systems.
When designing tasks and processes, allow your workers:
- workloads that are manageable
- reasonable and flexible working hours
- appropriate duties that alleviate excessive manual handling or repetitive tasks
- realistic deadlines to comfortably complete their tasks.
When purchasing and using new equipment, ensure:
- the equipment is operational for its assigned role or purpose
- the equipment is safely guarded and stored correctly
- workers are trained and knowledgeable on how to use the equipment safely
- the equipment is regularly maintained, safety tested and tagged prior to use
- data sheets and operating manuals for the equipment is received from your designers, manufacturers, importers and suppliers and accessible to your workers for easy reference.
Learn more on managing hazards and risks.