WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY

1. WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY • Principles for every day work

2. Introduction • The Mission of St Vincent’s Health Australia is to provide high quality and efficient health services to the people in our care, in accordance with the philosophy of St Vincent’s Health Australia. The Mission is based on our four core values: • Compassion • Justice • Integrity, and • Excellence. • The St Vincent’s Health Australia Work Health and Safety Policy is closely aligned to these four values and reinforces the commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy environment. Footnote to go here

3. VALUES IN SAFETY Values in Safety is safety culture program designed to positively influence our behaviour, our processes and our actions. It openly demonstrates our commitment to health, safety and wellbeing as reflected in the key statements linked to our four core Values. Compassion— We care for others and strive to keep them safe Justice — We are all empowered to contribute to the management of risks Integrity— We act diligently to ensure people are safe Excellence – We consistently pursue improvements in health, safety and wellbeing Footnote to go here

4. WHS Legislation Framework The health and safety of people in the workplace is governed by a system of laws, regulations and codes of practice. The WHS legislation framework in each Australian State and Territory sets out the key duties that employers and workers must comply with to ensure that safety is maintained at work, and the various steps that need to be taken to minimise risks. 1. Work Health and Safety Act – Mandatory The Work Health and Safety Act applies in most Australian states and territories ( the Occupational Health and Safety Act applies in Victoria). The Act is the most important document in the legislation hierarchy. 2. Regulations – Mandatory The regulations are designed to enable employers to administer the Act. They aim to assist employers to meet their obligations under the Act in a prescribed way. If an Australian Standard is called upon in the Regulation and is proceeded with the words 'must' or 'shall' the standard becomes mandatory. 3. Codes of Practice / Compliance Codes These Codes are practical guides specifically designed to help achieve the standards required under the Act and Regulations. Courts may regard a code of practice as evidence in determining how risks can be reasonably identified and managed. (Compliance Codes in Victoria) Footnote to go here

5. Managers and Supervisors must Ensure that policies and procedures are appropriately understood Ensure that workers are provided with the necessary instruction, information, training and supervision to enable work to be carried out safely Identify hazards in the workplace and take appropriate action to manage risks Follow up on corrective actions following incidents and investigations Monitor WHS performance and immediately address any concerns with workers Escalate health and safety concerns which cannot be immediately resolved Ensure incidents are immediately reported on Riskman and investigated Key WHS Duties and Responsibilities - Managers and Supervisors Footnote to go here

6. Key WHS Duties and Responsibilities - Employees and Volunteers • Employees and volunteers must: • Take reasonable care for their own health and safety • Immediately report to the supervisor or manager any dangerous conditions that present an imminent risk to your safety or that of others. • Take reasonable care to ensure their conduct does not adversely affect the health and safety of others • Use personal protective equipment that has been supplied for use • Comply with health and safety instructions, policies and procedures • Report all hazards, incidents, injuries and incidents immediately in accordance with local incident reporting procedures Footnote to go here

7. Workplace Hazards and Risks • A hazard is anything in the workplace that has the potential to harmpeople or cause damage. Hazards may include, but are not limited to: • Objects in the workplace, such as machinery or dangerous chemicals • environmental conditions such as extreme heat or excessive noise • dangerous work practices or human behaviour. • A risk arises when there is potential for a hazard to actually cause harm. The level of risk will depend on factors such as frequency of exposure and potential consequences. Footnote to go here

8. Identifying Hazards With longer or more frequent exposure comes an increased likelihood of incidents occurring. Most incidents can be avoided through prompt reporting of hazards, provided appropriate control actions are then carried out. Common hazard identification techniques include: Workplace Inspections - one of the most effective way of identifying hazards in the workplace is to conduct regular walks and inspections to see how things are done and if there are any safety concerns. Incident Reports and near-miss reports often help to reveal information about things that have the potential to cause ongoing harm if actions to prevent a recurrence have not already been established. Consultation and workplace discussions can help to reveal hazards and near misses encountered by others in the course of work. Review industry and manufacturers information and recommendations about tools and equipment, particularly any associated risks or servicing issues. Footnote to go here

9. Managing and Controlling Risks To effectively manage and control risks, you have to think about what could potentially go wrong and what the consequences could be. Then you must take all reasonable steps to eliminate or minimise the health and safety risks. This four-step process is known as risk management. These four steps are: Identification of hazards – finding out what could cause harm „ Assessment risks if necessary – understanding the nature of the harm that could be caused by the hazard, how serious the harm could be and the likelihood of it happening „ control risks Implementing the most effective control measure that is reasonably practicable in the circumstances Reviewing control measures to ensure they are working as planned The process for controlling risks should follow the Risk Control Hierarchy (see following page) Footnote to go here

10. Risk Control Hierarchy The most effective way to manage a risk is to eliminate the hazard. If there’s no hazard, there’s no risk. Consider the Risk Control Hierarchy below and how it can be applied to the minimise the risk of injury from slip / trip / fall hazards. Footnote to go here

11. Manual Handling The term “manual handling” applies to any activity that requires effort exerted by a person to lift, lower, push, pull, carry or otherwise move, hold or restrain any object or person. At SVCS this covers a wide variety of activities including both care-related and non-care related tasks, such as daily living assistance, cooking, cleaning, medication support, social support (such as outings and activities), grounds maintenance, administration and more. Good manual handling practice is also vitally important at SVCS to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our vulnerable residents who are receiving care and support. As part of your induction and orientation, you will be required to complete manual handling training which is designed to assist you to do your job safely and professionally. Footnote to go here

12. Slips, Trips and Falls • Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common cause of work incidents, but just about every incident can be avoided by following a few simple steps: • Clean up contaminants and spills on the floor promptly • Make sure working areas are kept clear and tidy • Make sure walkways are adequately lit and clear of clutter • Make sure footwear is suitable for the type of work and environment • Immediately report any slip/trip hazards such as cracked, loose or slippery flooring or uneven surfaces that cannot be fixed straight away A warning sign may not prevent someone slipping, but cleaning up the spill can eliminate the risk. Footnote to go here

13. Appropriate Footwear for Work • Ideal characteristics for shoes in a care/community support environment • Enclosed toe and heel with a close but comfortable fit • Non-slip sole with appropriate cushioning, made of a sturdy fluid resistant material (such as firm leather) – look for a good tread pattern • A rounded heel edge with good area of contact (avoid raised heels with small contact area) • Good protection and cover in the upper section, especially toes, if working in a heavy duty area such as maintenance or the kitchen • Most importantly, the shoes should be suitable for the task and the occupational requirements. • You should never wear: • Thongs / Flip-flops • Sandals • Ballet flats • High-heels / Stilettos • Poorly fitted shoes (too loose or too tight) • Shoes that are badly worn particularly on the soles, or with holes / tears in the upper • Shoes that stain easily or are difficult to clean Footnote to go here

14. Behaviour-based Risks • Challenging Client Behaviour • Aged care service users in a residential or community setting may, at times, exhibit challenging behaviours for a number of reasons. Such behaviour is common in dementia but may also be related to a range of other medical and psychiatric conditions. • It is essential that any signs or incidents of challenging behaviour be reported immediately in accordance with local procedures, regardless of whether they resulted in any injury or damage. Without detailed knowledge and analysis of such incidents, we may fail to uncover issues that lead to the behaviours commencing or escalating. • Preventing Workplace Harassment and Bullying • A person may feel they are being harassed if they are subjected to repeated behaviour, by another person, and that behaviour is: • - Unwelcome and unsolicited, and • - Considered to be offensive, intimidating, humiliating, or threatening. • Such behaviour should be reported to the supervisor or manager. All complaints of bullying or harassment will be treated seriously and action will be taken to ensure it stops. • As part of your induction and orientation, you will be required to complete modules on these topics which are designed to assist you to do your job safely and professionally. Footnote to go here

15. Hazardous Substances and Chemical Management • Hazardous substances are chemicals and other substances that can cause injury, illness or disease. The health effects may be acute or chronic. • It is important to note that many of the products used in our workplace are not considered hazardous under legislation. Non-hazardous chemicals generally do not present a threat to the health and safety of employees if used correctly and safely. • A chemical’s hazardous nature is stated on its label and safety data sheet. Never use a product from an unmarked or unlabelled container and never decant chemicals into an unmarked or unlabelled container • Prior to using any substance, ensure you are thoroughly familiar with the correct use, any associated hazards and the safe operating procedures. • If you have any concerns with the substances you are using or intend using seek advice from your supervisor or WHS contact. • Notify your supervisor immediately if you suspect that exposure to a hazardous substance is causing health effects. Footnote to go here

16. Equipment and Electrical Safety • Use your equipment correctly. Read the instruction booklet and follow all instructions. • A Residual Current Device (RCD) or Safety Switch is a safety device that disconnects a circuit when it detects an imbalance of the electric current. These are installed throughout SVHA premises. Portable RCDs must be used with electrical equipment if you are working outside the facility (e.g. in a community environment) • Always check that equipment is in a safe working order by inspecting the cord and plug. Switch off and disconnect damaged/broken equipment and report it immediately. • Inspect power points before plugging in equipment and don’t use if it is cracked or appears damaged. • Always switch off appliances at the power point before you pull out the plug. • If working outdoors check the location for overhead wires and contact Dial Before You Dig (ph. 1100 or www.1100.com.au) if necessary. • Electricity and water don't mix. Bare feet and wet skin lower the body's electrical resistance. Keep electrical appliances away from water and wet areas. Footnote to go here

17. Fire and Emergency • As part of your induction and ongoing development, you will complete training and other learning exercises specifically on how to handle fire and emergency procedures for your workplace. It is important that you become thoroughly familiar the emergency procedures relevant to your workplace by: • Completing Fire Safety Training • Know your Emergency Evacuation Team and first aid contacts • Actively participating in evacuation practice drills Footnote to go here

18. Infection Control & Standard Precautions • Infectious diseases can be spread from person to person in a number of ways, including: • inhalation of airborne droplets of respiratory secretions which may be spread by coughing, blowing the nose, sneezing and even talking; • contact with contaminated items or surfaces; and • direct contact with infected blood or bodily fluids such as when there is broken skin, a needle stick type injury, and through different forms of person-to-person contact. • Standard precautions are work practices required for a basic level of infection control. They include: • personal hygiene practices, such as hand washing and drying before and after all significant client contact; • use of PPE, which may include gloves, plastic aprons, gowns, eye protection, etc.; • appropriate handling and disposal of sharps and clinical waste; • correct cleaning and disinfecting of non-disposable equipment; • appropriate use of cleaning agents; and • environmental controls, such as maintenance, cleaning and spills management. • As part of your induction and orientation, you will be required to complete Infection Control Training which is designed to assist you to do your job safely and professionally. Footnote to go here

19. WHS Consultation & Communication • WHS consultation is a two-way process and should be seen as an opportunity to contribute to a safe environment for everyone. Consultation may involve: • raising concerns about hazards and contributing towards solutions • seeking information on risk controls and sharing views • discussing issues in a timely manner • attending scheduled meetings where safety issues are discussed • Referring unresolved matters to a supervisor, a designated WHS advisor or representative, management team meetings or a WHS Committee Take 5 is the SVCS weekly health and safety newsletter - keep an eye out for it. Footnote to go here

20. SVCS WHS Committees • Each SVCS facility/worksite has a committee which attends to WHS matters. Some have site WHS Committees while others incorporate these functions into other consultative processes such as team meetings. • Each SVCS workplace has representation on the St Vincent’s Care Services (SVCS) Health and Safety Committee. • The objective of the SVCS Health and Safety Committee is to provide a forum for management and members of the wider SVCS workforce to discuss and resolve work health and safety issues of broad importance to all staff. This may include things such as: • New training programs • Issues with standard equipment • WHS promotional activities and programs • If you are unsure who represents your workplace on the WHS Committee, please ask your manager or email the Health, Safety and Wellbeing team at hsw@svha.org.au. Footnote to go here

21. Injury and Incident Management • Workers Responsibilities Following Injury at Work • Seek first aid if required and report the injury to your supervisor/manager as soon as possible (after hours reporting to the relevant supervisor/manager for all staff). • Consult a doctor immediately if required. Except in emergency situations, you must collect a Suitable Duties Assessment Form prior to attending the doctor. If the injury is work-related, the treating doctor will complete a workers’ compensation medical certificate and a suitable duties checklist. • Inform your supervisor/manager immediately after any doctor or allied health consultation about the outcome of the assessment and to ensure correct internal documentation is completed. If necessary, they will assist you with the claim documentation and in helping to facilitate a suitable duties (rehabilitation) program if required. Remember, injured workers are required by law to satisfactorily participate in any rehabilitation program as deemed appropriate by the treating doctor. • It is essential that you maintain regular and open communication with your supervisor or manager about any work-related injuries. Footnote to go here

22. Riskman • St Vincent’s Care Services uses Riskman as an online risk reporting tool and risk management system. • All incidents, injuries and hazards must be entered into Riskman as soon as possible following the incident or identification of hazards. • To get further details about the process for entering details into Riskman (e.g. who does this or how to log in), please talk to your Manager or contact the Quality & Risk Manager for your facility. Footnote to go here

23. Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation • People who are injured in the course of work are entitled to apply for workers’ compensation in accordance with the relevant legislative provisions. The legislation also includes an obligation to participate in rehabilitation programs. • St Vincent’s recognises that helping workers to stay at work or make an early and safe return after an injury or illness minimises the impact on them and their families. • Suitable duties assessment forms are available for all occupational groupings and should be taken to the initial consultation for injury treatment. • It is expected that all injured workers will return to work on suitable duties as soon as it is medically authorised and safe to do so. Footnote to go here

24. No Smoking at Work Premises • Smoking by staff, contractors, volunteers and visitors is prohibited throughout all buildings, vehicles, and other areas within the boundaries and immediate perimeter of all St Vincent’s premises and community care environments. • St Vincent’s Health Australia will take all reasonable steps to ensure that legislative obligations relating to the health and safety of everyone at the workplace are met and that any other legislative provisions relating to the presence of tobacco or other smoking products (including electronic cigarettes) are adhered to. • Employees who smoke must do so outside the boundary of St Vincent’s Health Australia premises and during designated breaks only. In doing so, they must also be mindful of any applicable no-smoking requirements relating to neighbouring properties, such as schools or hospitals, and must not act unlawfully or contrary to St Vincent’s Health Australia’s Code of Conduct. Footnote to go here

25. Substance Misuse • The consumption, distribution or possession of alcohol and other (illicit or illegal) drugs, which may adversely affect performance or conduct and therefore jeopardise the safety and welfare of oneself or others including residents/clients, is not permitted during or prior to attending work or work related activities. • It is the responsibility of individuals to notify their manager or supervisor if they are consuming medications/prescription drugs that may affect their ability to perform their work. • St Vincent’s Health Australia recognises that there may be occasions when alcohol is provided as part of an official work function or event. It is a shared responsibility between St Vincent’s Health Australia and individual employees that the consumption of alcohol during such occasions is reasonable such that it does not affect anyone. Footnote to go here

26. Employee Assistance Program • The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to help employees manage problems that may be affecting their working and personal lives. EAP services are available to all permanent employees. • St Vincent’s EAP provider, AccessEAP is an independent and external counselling service is confidential from the moment a person calls and St Vincent’s will not be informed about individuals who make contact. • Those who wish to access the service should call 1800 818 728 at any time to make an appointment. Footnote to go here