Harm Minimisation Strategies Flashcards

What obligation does a worker have if they identify a Harm Minimisation Strategies hazard?

Answer: Report it immediately to their supervisor or HSR, and take reasonable care to protect themselves and others

Workers have a legal obligation to report hazards and take reasonable care for their own and others' health and safety.

How should Harm Minimisation Strategies risk controls be prioritised when multiple options exist?

Answer: Apply the hierarchy of controls — use the most effective control that is reasonably practicable

The hierarchy of controls guides prioritisation — always implement the highest-level (most effective) control that is reasonably practicable.

What is the role of workplace safety committees in Harm Minimisation Strategies management?

Answer: Facilitating cooperation between the PCBU and workers, reviewing safety procedures, and recommending improvements

Safety committees provide a structured forum for cooperation between management and workers on WHS matters.

When is it appropriate to use administrative controls for Harm Minimisation Strategies risks?

Answer: When elimination, substitution, isolation, and engineering controls are not reasonably practicable

Administrative controls (procedures, training, rotation) should be used when higher-level controls cannot adequately reduce the risk.

What must a Harm Minimisation Strategies procedure include to be effective?

Answer: Clear steps, responsibilities, hazard controls, PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and review dates

Effective procedures must be comprehensive, clear, practical, and include all information needed for safe work.

What is the consequence of inadequate Harm Minimisation Strategies risk management?

Answer: Worker injuries, regulatory penalties, prosecution, compensation claims, and reputational damage

Inadequate risk management can result in injuries, deaths, regulatory enforcement, prosecution, civil claims, and significant reputational damage.