Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00414:body:0:p20
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00414
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 51829–55320

injuries or fractures and cuts if dropped on foot                               * Compressor has handles fitted to assist in lifting and carrying
                            * Carrying the compressor to and from the toilet block                                                                                                                                             * Two persons required to lift and carry compressor
                                                                                                                                                                                                                               * Only workers who have been trained able to lift and carry compressor
Chemical                    * Cleaning agents used to clean toilets and basins                   * Skin irritation, rashes and illness caused by exposure to chemicals and their vapours in confined space                     * Only non-toxic cleaning agents used
                                                                                                                                                                                                                               * Gloves provided to avoid skin contact
Noise                       * Operating the compressor in a closed space with hard surfaces      * Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to the noise levels generated by the compressor                                        * Hearing protection provided for wearing when hosing out the toilet block
Slips, trips and falls      * Wet floor when hosing out the toilet block.                        * Cuts and bruises caused  by slipping on wet surface                                                                         * Safety boots were provided that had slip-resistant soles

Many staff present at the workshop indicated it was a waste of time as everything discussed was covered by the health and safety procedure, which they knew backwards. The SM acknowledged this concern but then asked the team whether the way the task was being conducted could be changed to improve health and safety.
One staff member raised concerns about lugging the compressor around 16 times every
Monday morning and that doing this tempted them to call in sick. The SM was curious about this and asked why it was necessary to take the compressor off the truck and place it in the toilet.
The workers explained that the length of the hose on the pressure spray was short and could
only be operated with the compressor in the toilet block.
After hearing this, the representative from the maintenance shop who supplied the compressor mentioned that he could attach a 10-metre hose to the compressor, which would mean the compressor would not have to be taken off the truck. The team agreed this was a good idea and would eliminate the manual handling risks associated with lifting and carrying the compressor.  The SM asked what other impacts this would have. The team agreed this would also reduce the noise as the compressor would now be outside the toilet block, but that there could be new risks associated with handling and storing a 10-metre long hose. The team agreed to trial the new hose. It was then installed with a hose handling system.
Following the workshop, the SM asked the supervisor to ensure the modifications were made within two weeks and to revise the procedures and have them checked by the health and safety representative and workers.

Case Study