Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2024L01380:reg:9:p20
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2024L01380
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 9 (pt 20/36)
Character Range: 156086–159204

but may do so if combined with other hazards. Some hazards may only create risks on their own when severe. Consider all hazards present and the circumstances to determine what is reasonably practicable to manage the risks.

Poor physical environments may include:

    -          performing hazardous tasks
    -          working in hazardous conditions (e.g. near unsafe machinery or hazardous chemicals)
    -          performing demanding work while wearing uncomfortable PPE or other equipment (e.g. equipment that is poorly fitted, heavy, or reduces visibility or mobility)
    -          workplace conditions that affect concentration or ability to complete tasks (e.g. high noise levels, uncomfortable temperatures or poor lighting)
    -          unpleasant workplace conditions such as poorly maintained amenities, unpleasant smells or loud music
    -          working with poorly maintained equipment (e.g. equipment that has become unsafe, noisy or started vibrating), and
    -          work-related accommodation, facilities and amenities that cause or contribute to worker fatigue (e.g. conditions are noisy, uncomfortable or stop workers getting enough sleep).

You can find more information on physical hazards and the working environment on the Safe Work Australia website.

Controlling a poor physical environment

Like psychosocial hazards, you must eliminate or minimise physical hazards in the workplace as far as is reasonably practicable. Specific duties may also apply under WHS laws, for information on how to manage a poor physical environment please see the Safe Work Australia website.

Appendix B – Harmful behaviours

This appendix provides information on psychosocial hazards related to harmful behaviours. Harmful behaviours include:

    -          violence and aggression
    -          bullying
    -          harassment including sexual harassment or gender-based harassment, and
    -          conflict or poor workplace relationships and interactions.
    -
These can cause physical and psychological harm to the person they are directed at and anyone witnessing the behaviour.

A single or irregular exposure to these hazards may not create psychosocial risks or the risks may be very low. However, if workers are exposed to a hazard (or a combination of these hazards) over a prolonged period or in a severe way they can cause psychological and physical harm.

The controls provided are examples, you must consider what is reasonably practicable to eliminate or minimise the risks in your workplace.

Identifying harmful behaviours

Overt or extreme forms of these behaviours (such as physical violence) may be easier to identify and are not tolerated in most workplaces. However, more subtle forms like crude language, sexist remarks and an overall workplace culture that is degrading or intimidating may not be taken as seriously and can be more difficult to identify.

Some of the things that may increase the likelihood of workers being exposed to harmful behaviours are set out below. This can help you identify when, where and why these behaviours may happen at work. For