Time to Complete lesson: 16 min video / 20 min read

8.1 Introduction

In Australia, Safe Work Australia (http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/) and Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) authorities in each state or territory have responsibilities for enforcing WHS/OHS legislation (acts and regulations). As a business owner, you must meet WHS requirements set out in the acts and regulations in your state or territory. You may face penalties if you don’t meet them.

Safe Work Australia is an Australian Government statutory agency established in 2009. Safe Work Australia consists of representatives of the Commonwealth, state and territory governments, the Australian Council of Trade Unions, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Australian Industry Group.

Safe Work Australia works with the Commonwealth, state and territory governments to improve work health and safety and workers’ compensation arrangements. Safe Work Australia is a national policy body, not a regulator of work health and safety. The Commonwealth, states and territories have responsibility for regulating and enforcing work health and safety laws in their jurisdiction.

The topic of health and safety is not just one that must be covered by law, but one that is extremely important for your own well being.

PWS uses a number of chemicals in some of the processes of cleaning tanks and filters, which can cause serious damage to your person, or to others. You need to be aware of the issues associated with these chemicals, and how to deal with them in a safe and proper manner.

Time off due to injury is lost time for your business. By following the proper rules and safety regulations, you will be able to continue in the development of your business without delay.

It is company policy to follow the guidelines in association with all our insurance policies; this would include situations such as:

No Smoking in PWS vehicles
No smoking in PWSA offices
No driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Driving within the boundaries of normal road laws, appropriate to each state
No driving without relevant or appropriate licences
No driving, holding onto a mobile phone in use
Obey equal opportunity laws, sexual discrimination and regulations
See your Franchise Agreement for other governing and regulations
Duty of care and attention to all policies, as you are a representative of our company
Obtain the correct accreditation/ licence for chemical handling/storage appropriate to each state
Correct handling and safety procedures must be strictly followed when using, mixing, handling or applying our PWS AqueousPro™® product.

The following link takes you directly to the Federal Governments website for Workplace Health and Safety:

https://www.business.gov.au/info/run/workplace-health-and-safety

“Workplace Health and Safety (WHS), often referred to as Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) involves the assessment and migration of risks that may impact the health, safety or welfare of those in your workplace. This may include the health and safety of your customers, employees, visitors, contractors, volunteers and suppliers. AS a business owner there are legal requirements that you must comply with to ensure your workplace meets WHS obligations.”

In 2012, the state and territory governments agreed to develop model laws (WHS Act and Regulations) on which they could base their health and safety laws.

As the business owner, you have the legal responsibilities to implement health and safety practices in your workplace as soon as you start your business. You need to ensure that your business doesn’t create health and safety problems for your employees, contractors, volunteers, visitors, customers or the public.

Under WHS/OH&S legislation businesses are legally obliged to:

Provide safe work premises
Assess risks and implement appropriate measures for controlling them
Ensure safe use and handling of goods and substances
Provide and maintain safe machinery and materials
Assess workplace layout and provide safe systems of work
Provide a suitable working environment and facilities
Have insurance and workers compensation workers’ compensation insurance for your employees
As per the Franchise Agreement (15.2 h) Comply with all laws and regulations relevant to the operation and use of the Franchisee Business and to obtain and keep current all permits and licences required to be taken out by the Franchisee in the name of and at the cost of the Franchisee and to promptly lodge all statutory returns and other documents required by law;

Safe Work Australia and WHS authorities in each state or territory have responsibilities for enforcing the WHS legislation. They provide education, training and advice on work health and safety and how to incorporate safety management into your business operations.

To find the WHS/OH&S authority in your state or territory, go to the following website link:

https://www.business.gov.au/Info/Run/Workplace-health-and-safety/WHS-OH-and-S-Acts-Regulations-and-Codes-of-Practice

8.1.2 Safe Work Practices in Commercial Areas

Safe Work Australia was established by the Safe Work Australia Act 2008, with primary responsibility to lead the development of policy to improve work health and safety and workers’ compensation arrangements across Australia. It performs its functions in accordance with Corporate plan and Operational plan agreed annually by the Select Council on Workplace Relations.

As a national policy body Safe Work Australia does not regulate work health and safety laws. The Commonwealth, states and territories retain responsibility for regulating and enforcing work health and safety laws in their jurisdiction.

For more information on Safe Work Australia, you can visit the following web link:

http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/swa/about/pages/about

PWSA and the Work Environment

For PWSA franchisees, there are a number of factors you will need to consider when working on the job, and/or the employment of staff in your business. These include:

Use of chemicals in confined spaces
Use of ladders and working at heights
Appropriate safety gear
Weather (sun, cold environments)
Long Driving distances

8.2 Safety Equipment

List of Safety Equipment and Use

First Aid Kit
Gloves
Goggles (Eye Protection)
Ear Muffs
Fire Extinguisher
Sun Protection

8.2.1 First Aid Kit

Accidents happen. Although all due care should be taken at all times, you are highly likely to find that from time to time, you may have minor accidents that result in abrasions, small cuts or bruises.

You are provided with a standard First Aid Kit that meets with Australian Occupational Health and Safety standards. This piece of equipment should be carried on your vehicle at all times, and should be checked on a regular basis to ensure product does not pass its use by date.

The First Aid Kit is provided for minor medical emergencies. Example usage includes: bandages to control minor bleeding or for use with bites, ointments for burns, bites or abrasions, and dressings for more serious wounds.

For those franchisee’s working in rural areas, there is a high probability that you will come across snakes and spiders in or around the area you are working. Ensure you are aware of the correct medical treatment to take to ensure proper action is taken.

You can add your own personal affects to the first aid kit if necessary, such as headache tablets, diabetic medicine, asthma puffers etc.

Remember, all injuries should be documented in case future medical assistance is required. Attached is an incident report form that needs to be completed and returned to the PWS Head office. For more serious injuries, seek professional medical advice immediately.

8.2.2 Gloves

PWS franchisee’s deal with chemicals from time to time. These have been listed below, and can cause irritation to the skin if contact is made with undiluted amounts.

You are required, by law, to wear protective gloves at all times when dealing with these chemicals. Proper equipment has been provided with your franchise kit.

This equipment is provided for your safety. Because you will be the one working with these chemicals, it is your responsibility to take care of your own person.

8.2.3 Fire Extinguisher

Accidents happen, although all due care should be taken at all times; you do carry up to 10 litres of fuel in the back of your vehicle. Therefore, on board your vehicle you are required to carry a Fire Extinguisher. This Fire Extinguisher must meet with Australian Occupational Health and Safety standards.

This piece of equipment should be carried on your vehicle at all times, and should be checked on a regular basis.

8.2.4 Goggles (Eye Protection)

The chemicals used in some of the PWS product services can cause damage to the eyes if direct contact is made. For this reason, and as required by law, you must wear protective goggles (eye protection) at all times when using these products.

Eye wear that meets Australian Safety Standards should be purchased and kept on your vehicle at all times. We suggest clear lenses for your goggles.

Remember, your eyes are one of your most valuable assets. To damage your sight could be irreparable.

8.2.5 Ear Muffs

PWS uses some machinery in providing the quality products and services of this business. To ensure you do not cause damage to your hearing, a set of ear muffs have been provided for your use.

These ear muffs meet Australian Safety Standards, and should be used at all times when machinery is being used.

Damage to your hearing could be irreparable. Hence the strict adherence in the use of this safety wear must be abided by.

8.2.6 Sun Protection

The very nature of the PWS business means you are likely to spend most of your day working outdoors, or at least travelling to and from jobs with exposure to the elements.

Sun protection is simply guarding yourself from the adverse effects of sunlight. Aside from the hazards of heat, the sun poses the danger of sunburn, which can permanently damage the skin and cause skin cancer.

By protecting yourself, you are saving your self from potential future medical issues, but also preventing loss of time and discomfort in working for your business.

The best methods to avoid sunburn are:

Limit time in the sun between the hottest hours through the middle of the day.
Wear protective clothing, including: broad brimmed hat, long-sleeve shirt that covers your arms, and long pants
Use a protective sunscreen with a high UV protection level = +30 for example.

8.3 Using Ladders in the Workplace

It might not be common practice, but there may be the time where you are required to use a ladder. Most likely, in the event of cleaning a water tank. Although not a common practice, by law if you use a ladder at any times, there are state and territory guidelines that you must follow to ensure you remain safe in the workplace.

If you are required to do jobs that need a ladder, you must have the correct Certifications for your state/territory.

The following details on how to use Ladders on a commercial level have been sourced from Safe Work Australia (December 2010)

Ladders are the LEAST safe method of working at heights from both a legal and OHS point of view.

Single / Extension Ladder

Stepladder

For heights of 2 metres or more

Ladders should NEVER be used by untrained staff, volunteers, students or contractors where a person can fall more 2 metres or more.
Where there is a risk of a person falling 2 metres or more, it is HIGH RISK and a school has specific legal duties under the OHS Act 2004 and the OHS Regulations 2007 (Part 3.3—Prevention of Falls).

Alternatives to using a ladder

Under the OHS Regulations 2007 there is a hierarchy of control measures for working at heights that are prioritised from the most effective to the least effective control method:

Level 1 controls are the most effective method and are usually the cheapest method over the long term. They entail working from the ground (or a solid construction) without using ladders, chairs, tables, etc. Instead they involve standing on the ground and using ropes and pulleys, long handled poles and other devices.

Level 2 controls (the second safest method) involve the use of passive fall prevention devices such as scaffolds, step platforms, guard railing, elevated work platforms, work boxes or safety mesh. Depending on the circumstances, step platforms may be an economical Level 2 method for working at heights.

Level 3 controls (the third safest method) use work-positioning systems such as travel-restraint systems or industrial rope-access systems. Such systems should only be used by qualified trade people using suitable equipment.

Level 4 controls (the fourth safest method) use of fall-arrest systems such as safety-harness systems or catch platforms. Such systems should only be used by qualified trade people using suitable equipment.

After considering all of the above, if no reasonably practicable control measure has been identified, a level 5 control may be used.

Level 5: Undertake the work from ladders or implement an administrative control - the fifth safest method.

Additional requirements for heights of 2 metres or more

Establish emergency procedures and First Aid provision prior to undertaking the task;
Require contractors to have documented safe systems of work such as Job Safety Analysis (JSAs) or Safe Work Method Statements (SWMSs);
Require contractors to have industrially rated ladders that are compliant with AS/NZS 1892,
Require contractors to regularly inspect their ladders; and
Require contractors to follow their documented safe systems of work.

Before using a Ladder

If the risk of fall is LESS than two metres:

Develop and document procedures on how to manage the hazard.
Train staff on how to work safely and keep records of training.

Typical Causes of Accidents with Ladders

Most ladder-related injuries occur as a result of falls from low heights.

Sideways tipping is the cause of most stepladder injuries, and this risk increases higher the person is up the ladder. Other causes include:

Extension ladders slipping either at the top or bottom
Extension ladders flipping over or coming away at the top
Overstretching by the user
Faulty ladders
Slipping or losing your footing
Stepladders wobbling due to missing feet or not being correctly open
Person working side-on with a ladder
Poor footwear such as long laces, thongs, sandals, worn shoes and high heels
Unauthorised or untrained people using ladders

Reducing the Risk with Ladders

Ways of to reduce the risk with ladders include:

Purchase the correct type of ladder
Inspect the ladder each time before use
Check the location and the environment where you are setting up the ladder
Set up the ladder correctly
Use safe working practices
Store the ladder correctly after use

Purchase the Correct Type of Ladder

Purchasing the correct type of ladder can help to reduce falls:

Industrially rated ladders with sufficient weight bearing capacity are preferred to domestically rated ladders.
Ladders that compliant with AS/NZS 1892 are legally required for working at heights of 2 metres or more.
Purchase fibreglass ladders where there is a risk of electrocution.
Ensure that the steps on the ladder are of an appropriate width, strength and depth.

Inspect ladders each time before use

Inspect ladders each time before use for:

Missing, damaged or worn anti-slip feet on ladders (essential for good grip)
Stones, grease, dirt, etc, stuck in the ladder feet preventing the feet from directly contacting the ground
Mud, grease or oil either on the rungs or the stiles (the sides) making them slippery
Cracks in the rungs or stiles of the ladder
Missing, broken or weakened rungs
Missing or damaged tie rods
Cracked or damaged welds and missing or loose screws, fasteners or rivets
Unauthorised repairs

Damaged or inappropriate ladder should be destroyed or removed from the school ASAP.

Setting up ladders in general

Set up ladders on clean, level, firm footing and free from anything that may cause the ladder to slip such as slippery surfaces, wet areas, moss, loose bricks, etc.

Do NOT set up a ladder where someone can fall off it (or the ladder can tip over) onto rocks, broken bricks, glass, spikes, sharp objects or corners, posts, etc.
Do NOT set up or use ladders during poor weather such high wind, rain or hail.
Do NOT use a metal or metal-reinforced ladder when working on live electrical installations, where the ladder can contact powerlines or where electricity can arc from a powerline to the ladder.
Do not locate a ladder within 6 m of an overhead power line (unless the lines have been temporarily disconnected or insulated);
Do NOT set up a ladder in places, such as driveways, windows and doorways, where a person or vehicle could hit it. (If necessary, erect a barrier or lock the door shut).
Do NOT use a ladder near the edge of an open floor, a hole or on scaffolding to gain extra height.
Do NOT place it on slippery or loose materials such as moss, oil, grease or plastic packaging.
Do NOT set up in areas exposed to poor weather such as rain, high winds, hail and snow.

Make sure the ladder is high enough and NEVER stand a ladder on boxes, bricks, tables, chairs, etc, to gain extra height.

Setting up Extension Ladders

For stability, extension ladders should be erected at an angle of 75° or the 1 in 4 rule (1 unit out for every 4 units up).

Make sure the ladder extends at least 1 m (or three rungs) above where you will be working.
Do NOT place the top of an extension ladder against a fragile surface such as plastic guttering or glazing as this might give way.
Do NOT stand on the top three rungs of the ladder.

Do NOT place extension ladders on sloping surfaces especially if the surface is wet. The rungs should always look horizontal and appropriate levelling devices may be used.

Setting up Stepladders

Check all four feet are in contact with the ground.
Position stepladders with the rungs facing the work activity and not side-on.
Do NOT use the top two steps of a stepladder unless it has a suitable handrail.

Safe working practices when using ladders

Face the ladder when climbing up and down.
Use both hands to grip the ladder whenever possible.
Go up or down one rung one at a time and do not rush.
Try to maintain three points of contact at all times (e.g. both feet and one hand).
Make sure the lighting is adequate for the task.
Wear sensible footwear - avoid thongs, slippers, high heels, dangling laces, damaged or slippery shoes, etc.
Wear clothing that will not get caught and avoid jewellery that can get caught.
Watch where you place your feet when working as many people fall when nearing the bottom.
Keep one hand free to grip the ladder if you are carrying an item up or down.
Make sure your vision is NOT restricted by goggles, face shields, respirators, etc, or reflective glare off surfaces.

Do NOT do strenuous work - only do light-duty, short duration work which has been approved by a responsible person.
Do NOT use ladders if you have a medical condition, or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol or medication.
Do NOT use metal ladders that will conduct electricity when working on or close to electrical equipment that is live or may become live. (Use fibreglass ladders instead)
Do NOT carry heavy or awkward shaped objects on a ladder.
Do NOT overreach and keep your belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and both feet on the rung.
Do NOT use any power (air, hydraulic, electric or battery) tool designed for two hands or one which may require the operator to brace against the torque from the tool.
Do NOT carry out hot work such as arc welding or oxy cutting.
Do NOT use hand tools such as axes, crowbars or pinch bars which may cause the user to overbalance or fall from the ladder
Do NOT work above other people
Do NOT allow 2 or more people to be on the ladder at the same time.
Do NOT throw things from ladders.
Do NOT use when heavy rain, dew, extreme heat or cold or wind are present.

Safe working practices when using an extension ladder

Where possible tie a ladder to prevent it from slipping at the top, the bottom or both, making sure both stiles are tied.
Never tie a ladder by its rungs.
Do NOT stand on a rung closer than 900mm to the top of a single or extension ladder or stand higher than the second tread below the top plate of any stepladder.
Hold on with both hands when climbing up and down

Safe working practices when using step ladders

Fully open the legs before use.
Always make sure you have an available handhold. This means having a suitable handrail or not working off the top two or three rungs, depending on the design of the stepladder.
Avoid working side-on from a stepladder, especially when applying force.
Do NOT use stepladders to access other levels, such as a roof, as they can become unstable when you step on or off them.

Storage

Ladders should be stored:

Horizontally on hooks at waist height in a secure area when not being used.
Securely to prevent unauthorised use and damage.
Keep track of each ladder used in your school.

8.4 Confined Spaces

Water Tanks are deemed a Confined Space, and if you are required to enter a tank for any reason, you need to be fully aware of the code of practice for work place health and safety. You may require the certification for Confined Spaces.

There are courses available through local colleges and tertiary education centres (such as TAFE). Should you find you require to enter Confined Spaces to conduct business, you will be required to complete the relevant certification.

Safe Work Australia has developed a model Code of Practice to provide practical guidance on how to meet the requirements under the WHS Act and Regulations applying in a jurisdiction in relation to work carried out in a confined space.

This applies to persons conducting a business such as Pristine Water Systems Franchisee’s.

The following link will take you directly to the website for Safe Work Australia: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/confined, where you can review the code of conduct for operating in a confined space.

8.4.1 Code of Practice for Confined Spaces

Here we will provide a quick summary of some of the key points from the Code of Conduct for Confined Spaces, sourced from the aforementioned link.

What is a Confined Space?

As defined in Regulation 5 of the Code of Practice, A confined space means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that:

Is not designed or intended primarily to be occupied by a person; and
Is, or is designed or intended to be, at normal atmospheric pressure while any person is in the space; and
Is or is likely to be a risk to health and safety from:
An atmosphere that does not have a safe oxygen level, or
Contaminants, including airborne gases, vapours and dusts, that may cause injury from fire or explosion, or
Harmful concentrations of any airborne contaminants, or
Engulfment.

A confined space is determined by the hazards associated with a set of specific circumstances and not just because work is performed in a small space.

What are the Risks of working in a Confined Space?

The risks of working in a confined space include:

Loss of consciousness, impairment, injury or death due to the immediate effects of airborne contaminants
Fire or explosion from the ignition of flammable contaminants
Difficulty rescuing and treating an injured or unconscious person
Asphyxiation resulting from oxygen deficiency or immersion in a free-flowing material, such as grain, sand, fertiliser, water or other liquids.

How to Control Risks in Confined Spaces

Regulation 66 states; In managing risks associated with a confined space, all relevant matters must be considered, including:

Whether the work can be carried out without the need to enter the confined space
The nature of a confined space
If the hazard is associated with any airborne contaminant or unsafe level of oxygen
The work to be carried out in the confined space, the range of methods by which the work can be carried out, and the proposed method
The type of emergency procedures available.

How to Review Control Measures

Regulation 38: A person conducting a business or undertaking must review and as necessary revise risk control measures:

When the control measure does not minimise the risk so far as is reasonably practicable
Before a change at the workplace that is likely to give rise to a new or different health and safety risk that the control measure may not effectively control
If a new hazard or risk is identified
If the results of consultation indicate that a review is necessary
If a health and safety representative requests a review.

8.5 Handling of Chemicals

As a Pristine Water Systems Franchisee, you may be required to use chemicals when cleaning water tanks, or in the servicing of some filtration systems.

While the chemicals that we commonly use are not what you would consider ‘dangerous’, incorrect handling or use could cause harm. At the same time, substances such as AqueousPro™50™ could be dangerous to children or the elderly, who could quite easily mistake the chemical for water.

Safe Work Australia has developed the National Code of Practice for the Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods. This code provides the information and guidance for the storage and handling of dangerous goods as minor quantities, and as consumer packages supplied by retailers.

For a copy of the National Code of Practice for the Storage and Handling of Workplace Dangerous Goods, please refer to the following link:

https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/national-standard-storage-and-handling-workplace-dangerous-goods-nohsc-1015-2001 (last updated Apr 2017)

8.5.1 PWSA's Rules for Safe Handling of Chemicals

Apply common sense with any chemical, particularly one that the MSDS stipulates may be hazardous.
Read and understand the documentation that should be provided with any chemical, particularly any that are concentrated and classified as dangerous, hazardous, toxic or otherwise require safe handling procedures including protective equipment or clothing.
Apply common sense in handling any chemical, particularly one that the MSDS stipulates may be hazardous, or other characteristics that requires specific safe handling procedures.
Use protective equipment with chemicals that may be hazardous in an un-diluted form.
Be familiar with all safety procedures required to be used with the particular chemicals you are handling. If a spill occurs, appropriate equipment and dilution facilities have to be readily available and fully serviceable immediately.
Apply common sense in the workplace and particularly if other people are present that do not have any or only a limited understanding of any chemical that you are handling, particularly one that the MSDS stipulates may be hazardous.
Take the chemical in its original container to the exact place where you are going to decant any quantity into another vessel or into a large volume of water for point of use.
DON’T wander around with open containers of chemical that can be accidentally spilt.
Apply common sense ALL of the time. Remember what you are handling.
Avoid complacency. The skin, eyes, lungs and clothes you save might be yours!

8.5.2 PWSA's Rules for Chemical spills and Containment

Although the products used by PWSA are not an immediate life threat, the use of AqueousPro™50™ does have implications if it were to come in contact with skin in its purest form.

You will also be carrying fuel for your Pump (possibly vehicle), which could lead to the potential for spillage.

For this reason, you do need to be aware of the correct actions to take if you happen to have a spill at a customers premises, or even at your own home.

Following is the procedure you should follow if you experience a chemical fuel spill:

Step 1: How dangerous is the spill?

Firstly, what has been spilt? Is it a Chemical that is hazardous, Fuel, or a non-hazardous material?

Next, evaluate the location/situation. Has the spillage occurred near drainage, paddock/livestock, house, or children’s play area? The location of the spillage could have an immediate impact.

If it is an area where children play, pets/livestock graze, you will need to ensure you follow these steps. If the area is a ‘non usable’ area, it may be sufficient to merely dilute the spillage with water.

Step 2: Communicate the hazard to property owner.

If the spill could impact the owners’ property, advise them. For example, a fuel spill could kill the grass. Be on the front foot as problems could arise later on if you have already addressed the situation.

Provide a solution for any future issues. At the very least, advise the customer to contact you if they see any problems.

Take photos of the area so that you have proof of where the spillage occurred, and take note of what was spilled, time of day, courses of action and who you spoke to about the issue.

Should the spillage be of a non-hazardous nature, advise the customer and still take notes/photos. But advise them that there is nothing to be concerned about.

Step 3: Control the Spill

This step is about ensuring the spill does not become any worse.

If there is a way to stop the spill or minimize the chances of it becoming worse, take those actions (such as closing a valve or righting a container that has tipped over). If required, you should don appropriate safety gear such as gloves, eye protection, long sleeve shirt/pants. If it requires respiratory protection as well, make sure you source a mask.

If possible (and appropriate), shut down any potential sources of heat or ignition such as the pump engine. Increase ventilation to the area if required, if that will assist in safely dispersing any fumes. If the fumes present a hazard of their own, it’s usually better to isolate the area by closing doors and windows after the area has been evacuated.

Step 4: Contain the Hazard

Once the immediate situation has been addressed, take steps to keep the spill from spreading to other areas or contaminating adjacent surfaces. Depending on the material and situation, this usually involves confining the spilled material to a small area by using some type of absorbent material or neutralizer. Start spreading those materials around the perimeter of the spill to prevent it from expanding, and work your way to centre.

For example, spilt fuel will require sand or absorbing granules to be spread over it. AqueousPro™50™ will not require coverage.

You’ll want to prevent the spill from spreading to floor drains, or into water reservoirs, or other places that may allow the material to flow into environmentally sensitive areas such as creeks, rivers or dams. You may need to build a dike to block or direct the material, or use a special product such as a spill sock (if available).

Step 5: Clean up and rectify any Damage, and Dispose of Materials.

Collect any material that was used to contain or neutralize the spill, and dispose of it in the specified manner. If the spill is small, that may be a plastic bag, while larger spills may require plastic pails or drums.

In some cases, you’ll also need to dispose of any equipment such as brooms or dustpans tha you used to clean up the material. If what you’ve gathered qualifies as a hazardous material, be sure to label it accordingly and dispose of it as specified by local laws and environmental regulations.

Clean the surfaces that were affected by the spill with the correct material, whether that’s bleach, a mild detergent, water, or some other material appropriate for the material that was spilled. Instead of rinsing the area after cleaning, you may need to use another method such as more absorbent material.

Be sure to wash your hands and any other areas that may have come in contact with the materials thoroughly. If your clothing can be safely decontaminated and cleaned, follow the appropriate steps. Otherwise, dispose of the clothing following proper safety procedures.

8.5.3 PWSA's Rules for Chemical Labelling

Source: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/labelling

Labels on hazardous chemicals identify hazards and give instructions on how to use them safely. They help businesses identify any safety controls needed in the workplace, and tell workers how to deal safely with a chemical.

In Australia, labels for workplace hazardous chemicals must be prepared in accordance with the model Code of Practice: Labelling of Workplace Hazardous Chemicals.

Information on hazardous chemical labels

A hazardous chemical is correctly labelled if it is packed in a container that has a label written in English that includes:

The product identifier
The name, Australian address and business telephone number of the manufacturer or importer
The identity and proportion of each ingredient – as per Schedule 8 to the model WHS Regulations
Any hazard pictogram consistent with the correct classification of the chemical
Any hazard statement, signal word and precautionary statement consistent with the correct classification of the chemical.
Any information about the hazards, first aid and emergency procedures relevant to the chemical, which are not included in the hazard statement or precautionary statement.
An expiry date, if applicable.

The label may include an emergency phone number for specific poisons or treatment advice.

The label should be clearly legible and firmly fixed to the container; it shouldn’t be obscured or in a spot where it could be removed, for example on the lid.

Responsibility for labelling hazardous chemicals

Businesses at each stage of the supply chain of hazardous chemicals have duties relating to the labelling of hazardous chemical containers.

Duty Holder	Duties
Manufacturer and Importers	Must ensure the chemical is correctly labelled in accordance with the model WHS Regulations
Suppliers	Must not supply a hazardous chemical to a workplace if they know, or should reasonably know, that the chemical is not correctly labelled.
Businesses that use hazardous chemicals	Must ensure hazardous chemicals are correctly labelled in accordance with the model WHS Regulations, including where the chemical is stored in pipework, or transferred or decanted from the chemical’s original container at the workplace. This duty does not apply where: The hazardous chemical is a consumer product, retaining its original label and only used in workplaces in household quantities, and in a way that is incidental to the nature of the work A hazardous chemical is in transit The hazardous chemical is used immediately after being put into the container and the container is thoroughly cleaned after the chemical has been used, handled or stored so that the container is in the condition it would be in if it had never contained the hazardous chemical.

Reviewing Labels

Labels should be reviewed periodically in order to keep them current, for example when:

A change in the formulation of ingredients changes the chemical’s hazardous properties.
New information on the hazards of the product or any of its ingredients becomes available.
The classification of a hazardous chemical changes

Importers, manufacturers and suppliers should review any new or significant information in relation to any hazardous chemicals they import, manufacture, or supply, and review the literature and other relevant information regularly.

The label should also be reviewed alongside SDS, which must be reviewed at least every five years.

Hazardous Chemical label Not Required

In general, a label is required for any hazardous chemical used in the workplace, however there are some that don’t need workplace labelling under the model WHS Regulations. These include:

Consumer Products; with original label on container
Agricultural and veterinary chemicals
Food an Beverages packaged for consumption and not in bulk
Therapeutic goods when packaged for patient or consumers
Cosmetics and Toiletries when packaged for consumer use
Bulk Containers; if require a placard, does not require a label
Small Containers; especially when it is not possible to include all the label elements in a way that is clear and easy to read.
Pipework doesn’t need to be labelled, but should clearly communicate relevant information such as the chemical, its hazards, any necessary precautions.

8.0 Safe Work Australia (Workplace Health and Safety / Occupational Health and Safety)

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1.0 Introduction

2.0 Franchise Service Fee

3.0 Franchisee Obligations

4.0 Franchisor - Franchisee Structure

5.0 Creating a Successful Franchise Business

6.0 Franchisee Support

Module 1 Appendix Items

Module 1 Quiz

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Administration

3.0 Franchise Inventory Lists

4.0 PODAC (Pristine Online Data Accounts & Clients)

5.0 ITF - In The Field APP

6.0 PWS Social Media Policy Guidelines

Module 2 - Appendix

Module 2 Quiz

1.0 Background of the Water Industry

2.0 Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) Introduction

3.0 Common Water Borne Diseases

4.0 Chemicals and Substances found in Water

5.0 Pristine Water Systems Chemicals and Treatments

6.0 Water Testing/Analysis & Results

7.0 Industry Certifications

8.0 Safe Work Australia / Workplace Health & Safety / Occupational Health & Safety

9.0 Filtration & UV Products

10.0 Types of Tanks

11.0 Other PWS Products & Equipment

12.0 Glossary of Terms

Module 3 - Appendix

Module 3 Quiz

1.0 Introduction

2.0 The PWS Process

3.0 Planning your Work Schedule

4.0 Planning Product Ordering

5.0 Water Testing

6.0 AqueousPro™ 50 Water Sanitiser

7.0 Water Tank Cleaning

8.0 Filtration / Sterilisation Supply (Assembly)

9.0 Ongoing Service & Maintenance

10.0 PWS Standards

11.0 AqueousAir™ Assembly & Installation Instructions

Module 4 - Appendix

Module 4 Quiz

Module 5 Video Lessons

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Advertising & Marketing

3.0 Planning your Advertising & Marketing

4.0 Selling PWS / Selling Yourself

5.0 Assessments & Quoting

6.0 Invoicing

Module 5 Appendix

Module 5 Quiz

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Vehicle Maintenance

3.0 Equipment Maintenance

4.0 Process for Equipment Replacement / PWS Repair Request

Module 6 Quiz

PWSA 2022 Conference