Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00406:body:0:p17
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00406
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 53176–57056

load, environment, method of handling and/or the way work is organised.

Hierarchy of control           Examples of control measures

Level 1                        Elimination                                                                                                              * Automate the manual task (such as using remote controls)
                                                                                                                                                        * Deliver goods directly to the point of use to eliminate multiple handling
Level 2                        Substitution                                                                                                             * Replace heavy items with those that are lighter, smaller and/or easier to handle
                                                                                                                                                        * Replace hand tools with power tools to reduce the level of force required to do the task
Isolation                          * Isolate vibrating machinery from the user, for example by providing fully independent seating on mobile plant
Engineering                        * Use mechanical lifting aids
                                   * Provide workstations that are height adjustable
Level 3                        Administrative                                                                                                           * Rotate workers between different tasks
                                                                                                                                                        * Train workers to use control measures implemented when carrying out manual tasks
Personal protective equipment      * Heat resistant gloves for handling hot items
                                   * Shock absorbent shoes for work on hard concrete floors

4.2         Purchasing to eliminate or minimise risks
Before purchasing equipment, such as tools, containers, workstations, machinery and vehicles, you should always check whether the item has been designed so that it can be used safely and best matches the needs of your workers. Where possible, you should:
    * brief designers and engineers so that consideration can be given to the design implications
      on the manual tasks performed
    * liaise with manufacturers and suppliers about handling, delivery and storage requirements
    * purchase ergonomically designed tools and equipment that suit the work being carried out
      and the physical characteristics of the workers
    * check any vibration specifications.

4.3         Changing the design or layout of work areas
A well-designed work area will assist in eliminating or reducing the risk factors associated with
a hazardous manual task, such as the degree of reaching, twisting or bending.

Workstation design

Workstations should be designed to allow workers to work in an upright position, shoulders in a natural position (not elevated) and upper arms close to the trunk most of the time without large reaches to perform the task. Work surfaces should be easily adjustable to suit a range of workers and the tasks they perform.
Where it is not possible to provide adjustable workstations consider altering the design so that:
    * the workstation height suits the widest range of physical characteristics of workers
    * reaching distances suit shorter workers
    * knee and leg clearances suit larger workers.

Working heights

Tasks with high visual demands should be performed above elbow height and work surfaces may need to be tilted, for example, for tasks involving delicate or precise manipulation.
Tasks where the hands make a narrow range of movements and can rest on the work surface should be performed at, or just above, elbow height.