There are also a number of codes of practice applying to specific chemicals or processes check the WorkCover Web site for a full list.
Hazardous substances are defined by two documents: listed in the List of Designated Hazardous Substances; or classified as hazardous substances using the Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances. These can be viewed on the web site www.nohsc.gov.au. Dangerous goods are listed and defined in the ADG Code (Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail). These documents are published by the Federal Government.
There are some exemptions from the MSDS requirement in retail shops and retail warehouses. More information is provided in Catalogue No. 400: Reading Labels and Material Safety Data Sheets. Where substances are transferred to another container, appropriate labelling must be maintained see the Code of practice: labelling of workplace substances for further advice. Responsibility 2 eliminate or control risks Risks must be eliminated, or controlled if elimination is not reasonably practicable. This includes emissions such as dusts and fumes. Worker exposure to hazardous substances must be kept below certain exposure levels both short-term and long-term (see the MSDS for advice). Other risks, such as uncontrolled chemical reactions, fires and explosions must also be prevented. Carry out the following three steps: Step 1: identify all dangerous goods and hazardous substances Make a list of all hazardous substances and dangerous goods in the workplace, including dusts and fumes. Then collect the MSDS for each substance obtained from a supplier. Together these documents can be used to form your workplace register. The register must contain details of all dangerous goods and hazardous substances currently used, produced, stored or handled on the premises. Always ensure that the Register is current, updating to include details when new dangerous goods or hazardous substances are used or produced on the premises or discontinued. MSDSs expire after five years and you should check that they are up to date. MSDSs are not necessary for dusts, fumes and emissions, but you need equivalent health and safety information; and you need to control any risks.
Step 2: do a workplace risk assessment Depending on the circumstances, risk assessments may be simple and done in-house, or may require outside assistance. Either way, a risk assessment must include: An investigation of work processes are there health or safety problems? Are risks created in storage and handling? An assessment of the risks to health and safety. For hazardous substances you need to find out how and where exposure could occur. Determine the extent of potential exposure and whether this level of exposure going to be a problem. Make sure you consider each possible route of entry breathing in, skin contact and swallowing. Could dangerous goods interact with other goods? If you use flammable goods, are there ignition sources nearby that could cause fires and explosions?
Step 3: determine and apply controls To reduce risks, determine control measures that offer the best protection and that can be practically applied in your workplace. Look for suggested control measures on the MSDS and container label. There are six levels of control measures, in the following order of priority: 1. Elimination stop using the substance or goods. A reduction in stocks held is a key control measure. 2. Substitution use a lower hazard alternative. 3. Isolation separate use from the rest of the workplace, eg erect screens, keep dangerous goods separate from other chemicals. 4. Engineering controls install equipment that will reduce exposure or risk, eg use local exhaust ventilation, provide containment for potential spills. 5. Safe work practices change the way people work, eg restrict entry into work or storage areas. 6. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, aprons and respirators can reduce worker contact and exposure to chemicals. PPE is always the last resort, but in some end-user situations may be the most practicable. In many cases, the MSDS will provide the information you need for a risk assessment. Check that the control measures recommended on the MSDS are followed. Ensure that all measures adopted to eliminate or control risks are properly used and maintained. Advice on determining controls with hazardous substances is provided in the Code of practice: control of workplace hazardous substances.
Advice on storage and handling of dangerous goods is provided in Code of practice: storage and handling of dangerous goods.
EMERGENCY PLANS
Employers and self-employed persons must make arrangements for emergencies in relation to matters over which they have control, regardless of the size of the premises or quantities of chemicals. Over certain quantities of dangerous goods, this must be a written plan (see below).
RECORD KEEPING
Records of the following must be kept and maintained in all workplaces that handle or store dangerous goods or hazardous substances: Risk assessment for low level risks, this is a notation on the MSDS or in the register that the controls indicated on the MSDS are being used. For higher level risks, this is a written report showing how control measures were determined. A register listing all the hazardous substances and dangerous goods in the workplace, with the relevant MSDS. Induction and training. Air monitoring program, if needed. Health surveillance program for employees, if needed. Notification of serious incidents and other incidents involving dangerous goods to WorkCover.
Where dangerous goods are stored or handled in excess of the manifest quantities in Schedule 5 of the OHS Regulation additional records and notification are required see below.
Contents of the emergency plan should include the site and hazard information, command structure and personnel, notifications, resources and procedures. This must be prepared in consultation with the NSW Fire Brigade. Additional information regarding manifest and emergency plans is available in the Code of practice: storage and handling of dangerous goods. Details of notification are available on the WorkCover web site www.workcover.nsw.gov.au. The contents of the plan should be communicated to all people who may be exposed to a risk.
Check if there are codes of practice that apply to your workplace or process by looking on the WorkCover web site.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information check the WorkCover website at www.workcover.nsw.gov.au or telephone the WorkCover Assistance Service on 13 10 50 (8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday).
Disclaimer This publication contains information regarding occupational health, safety, injury management or workers compensation. It includes some of your obligations under the various workers compensation and occupational health and safety legislation that WorkCover NSW administers. To ensure you comply with your legal obligations you must refer to the appropriate Acts. This publication may refer to WorkCover NSW administered legislation that has been amended or repealed. When reading this publication you should always refer to the latest laws. Information on the latest laws can be checked at www.legislation.nsw.gov.au or contact 1300 656 986. WorkCover NSW
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