Utilise tools and techniques to source information from others about OHS issues and hazards

Use tools and techniques to source informationfrom others about OHS issues and hazards

Types of information gatheringThere are two techniques for gathering information:

Communicating with employees directlyUse of recorded documentation

Both should contribute to highlighting OHS issues and hazards that could affect the health and safety of the workplace.

Many choices for gathering informationBody mappingHazard reporting systemsAccident/incident reportsFormal or informal meetingsHazard identification checklistsWalkthrough surveys and inspectionsInterviews with workersJob and systems analysisMaterial safety data sheets (MSDSs)Comparison of safe work method statements (SWMS)Plant and equipment maintenance records

Reviews of:- investigation reports- OHS records- registers of hazardous substances and dangerous goods- reported hazards and incidents- surveys and suggestion boxesMany choices for gathering information (contd)

Which to choose?As you can see there are manytypes of information that canbe gathered.

One of the most useful tools availableto identify safety problems is a hazard identification checklist.

If you are asked to complete one on a regular basis do this carefully, as hazards change constantly. Just because a workplace has all its hazards identified one week, does not mean that there are not new hazards the following week!

Lesson ActivitiesIn the next part of the lesson you will be given more information about how each of these techniques contribute to workplace safety.

Read this information and then continue to complete the activities.