Hazardous substances policy
Austonia Trades P/L is committed to preventing any injury or ill health due to the use of hazardous substances in the workplace and has developed the following policy to create healthy and safe workplace(s) for all workers, subcontractors, visitors, and prevent environment damage. This policy outlines the rules, responsibilities and procedures for Hazardous Substances.
This policy applies across the organisation of Austonia Trades P/L and all workplaces under our control.
Rules:
- Store all hazardous substances and dangerous goods in their original containers with the label intact at all times.
- Make sure a current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous substances, including all chemicals and fibrous material, are available, read and understood by the relevant workers;
- Always use the chemicals and other substances for their intended use and in a safe and appropriate manner;
- Follow safety and environmental precautions for use, transport and storage of hazardous substances listed on the SDS;
- Workers are to have their appropriate PPE that it is fitted correctly and well maintained when handling hazardous substances and stored safely when not in use. Notify their officer/supervisor immediately when PPE is NOT provided or is unserviceable or unsuitable;
- Use and/or adhere to safety signs and placards when and where required; and
- Workers whose behaviour has placed the safety of themselves or other at risk will be subject to disciplinary procedures.
Responsibility:
Officers and Supervisors must:Implement and review this policy;
- Implement and review this policy;
- Consult with workers about this policy;
- Identify hazards and assess risks arising from storage and handling of herbicides, pesticides, solvents, oxidising agents and other hazardous substances and eliminate or control the risks;
- Provide information to all workers about hazardous substances used and stored in the workplace;
- Provide resources, information, training and supervision for relevant workers to allow them to adhere to the rules and have the knowledge and resources to handle, use, transport and store hazardous substances and follow the procedures and understand their roles and responsibilities;
- Make sure the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided to workers, worn and maintained correctly;
- Make sure an emergency plan is in place and workers notified and trained to deal with accidents either environmental or personal contamination. For example, containing spills, wash down area and appropriate first aid;
- Consult with product suppliers and conduct independent research to purchase the least hazardous substance to achieve the desired result. Make sure that SDS are provided with all hazardous substances purchased;