Questions and answers for Module 2 - OH&S

Activities answers
What is the name of the Act that covers situations like this? Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 (NSW)

Explain workplace procedures that should be in place to report workplace accidents. The accident should be reported to designated personnel (eg the manager); an accident report form should be filled in and kept with the accident register; if the accident causes death or serious injury, WorkCover must be notified immediately.

Should an Occupational Health and Safety Committee member inspect the stairs? Justify your answer. Yes. All hazards must be assessed according to the legislation, ie all risks must be identified, assessed, eliminated or controlled and later reviewed.

The Occupational Health and Safety Representative found a slippery substance on the stair where you slipped. What type of a hazard would this be classified as? A chemical hazard.

Explain the steps that the Occupational Health and Safety Representative should now follow. He/she should put a sign on the steps indicating a slippery surface. Then he should either try to find someone to clean it up or leave a message for the cleaners to clean it up that afternoon. The site should be inspected before work the next day to make sure that the risk has been eliminated.

Test your knowledge
Select the most correct answer for each of the following :
Q1 How can an office worker avoid Occupational Overuse Syndrome?
a. Take a break at least every five hours
b. Make sure they leave the office for lunch
c. Work beyond capacity to get the job done
d. Take frequent rest breaks

On what factor does the height of a workstation depend? a. The task being completed b. The reach requirements of the user c. The height from the floor d. The task being completed AND the reach requirements of the user
What stage of risk management is risk control? a. 1st stage b. 2nd stage c. 3rd stage d. 4th stage
What is the likelihood of harm occurring if the risk is classified as unlikely? a. Could happen any time b. Could happen sometime c. Could happen but very rarely d. Could happen but probably never will
When must employers identify possible workplace hazards? a. When the need arises b. When directed to by authorities c. Before workers return from lunch d. Before making changes to work practices