Safe Work Australia (SWA) has released its newly approved model Code of Practice: Managing the risks of biological hazards at work. Much of the feedback provided by unions at the draft stage of this model Code has been included in this final version.
Biological hazards are substances and agents of biological origin, such as from humans, plants and animals, that pose risks to human health. They include viruses, bacteria, parasites, prions and some types of fungi (including mould). They also include allergens, irritants and toxins, such as organic dust, sap and venom. Biological hazards can be found in all industries and workplaces – including both indoor and outdoor settings.
The model Code provides practical guidance to assist employers in identifying, and implementing, the most effective ways to manage the risks arising from biological hazards in their workplace and meet their work health and safety (WHS) duties. This Code is broad in scope and applies to any workplace where workers or others may be exposed to biological hazards.
Regardless of your specific industry or workplace, your employer must always aim to eliminate risks. Given the nature of biological hazards, elimination may not be possible for many workplaces. If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate risks, employers must minimise the risks as much as is reasonably practicable. This new model Code of Practice provides a helpful checklist that summarises the key considerations when managing the risks of biological hazards in the workplace.
This new SWA Code of Practice is based on the model WHS laws – some workplaces in Victoria are covered by the model WHS laws and regulated by Comcare, for example Commonwealth Government workplaces, and some national employers such as Bank of Australia, Australia Post and Telstra. For workplaces under the jurisdiction of Victorian OHS laws you can also contact WorkSafe for assistance in understanding the OHS requirements and safe work procedures that apply in the management of biological hazards.
This Code of Practice can serve as a valuable resource and guidance for employers, employees and HSRs in all jurisdictions when negotiating and implementing workplace safety procedures around managing the risks of biological hazards, along with consideration of other laws which apply to biological hazards and any existing detailed standards and guidance on specific matters relevant to your industry or workplace.
Read more: Biological hazards | Comcare