Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00415:body:0:p6
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00415
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workers at the workplace.

2.1 The nature of the work and workplace hazards
Certain work environments have greater risks of injury and illness due to the nature of work being carried out and the nature of the hazards at the workplace. For example, factories, motor vehicle workshops and forestry operations have a greater risk of injury that would require immediate medical treatment than offices or libraries. These workplaces will therefore require different first aid arrangements.

Table 1: Injuries associated with common workplace hazards that may require first aid

Hazard                   Potential harm

Manual tasks             Overexertion can cause muscular strain.
Working at height        Slips, trips and falls can cause fractures, bruises, lacerations, dislocations, concussion.
Electricity              Potential ignition source could cause injuries from fire. Exposure to live electrical wires can cause shock, burns and cardiac arrest.
Machinery and equipment  Being hit by moving vehicles, or being caught by moving parts of machinery can cause fractures, amputation, bruises, lacerations, dislocations.
Hazardous chemicals      Toxic or corrosive chemicals may be inhaled, contact skin or eyes causing poisoning, chemical burns, irritation.
                         Flammable chemicals could result in injuries from fire or explosion.
Extreme temperatures     Hot surfaces and materials can cause burns. Exposure to heat can cause heat stress and fatigue. Exposure to extreme cold can cause hypothermia and frost bite.
Radiation                Welding arc flashes, ionizing radiation and lasers can cause burns
Violence                 Behaviours including intimidation and physical assault can cause nausea, shock and physical injuries
Biological               Infection, allergic reactions
Animals                  Bites, stings, kicks, scratches

Records of injuries, illnesses, 'near miss' incidents and other information that has already been obtained to assist in controlling risks at the workplace will be useful to make appropriate decisions about first aid.
You should check the safety data sheets (SDS) for any hazardous chemicals that are handled, used or stored at your workplace. The SDS provides information about the chemical, possible health effects, controls that may be used to reduce exposure and first aid requirements.

Manufacturers, importers and suppliers of hazardous chemicals have a duty under the WHS Regulations to ensure that the current SDS is provided to a person at the workplace if the person asks for it.

    2.2 Size and location of the workplace
In relation to the size and location of the workplace, you should take into account:
    * the distance between different work areas
    * the response times for emergency services.
First aid equipment and facilities should be located at convenient points and in areas where there is a higher risk of an injury or illness occurring.

A large workplace may require first aid to be available in more than one location if:
    * work is being carried out a long distance from emergency services
    * small numbers of