Critical Risk Controls

Our Framework

The Critical Risk Controls Framework defines how we identify and manage high‑consequence risks that could result in fatal or life‑changing outcomes if not effectively controlled. It establishes a clear expectation that critical risks must be identified before work starts, with mandatory controls in place and verified, and that work will not proceed if those controls are missing or ineffective. 

The framework is structured across four aligned layers – Principles, Standards, Procedures, and task‑level tools such as SWMS and JHAs. Together these define what must be achieved, the minimum controls required, who is responsible, and how work is safely executed, ensuring consistency in high‑level expectations for the safe delivery of works.

Our commitment is to set a consistent standard, control critical risks, and enable safe outcomes across all operations. By embedding minimum requirements, clear accountability, and a strong stop‑work culture, the framework supports a proactive approach to preventing serious harm and reinforces our commitment to protecting our people.

Temporary Works

Only use temporary works that have been designed, installed, verified and inspected by competent persons in accordance with approved plans and specifications.

Temporary works include (but are not limited to):

• Ground support systems
• Propping and jacking systems
• Formwork and falsework
• Temporary access systems
• Scaffolding
• Mobile crane pads and tower crane bases, grillages, ties, etc.
• Anchor points for suspended platforms and rope access personnel

Design

• All medium and high complexity temporary works require a design brief
• A qualified designer must design temporary works
• Consider existing structures and foundation conditions
• Maintain detailed up-to-date drawings and plans
• Designer must authorise design changes prior to installation

Installation & Dismantling

• Temporary works must be installed by competent person(s) as per the design and/or installation instructions
• SWMS for the installation and dismantling of temporary works must include controls for the work to be completed safely, including preventing persons or objects falling and penetration management

Verification & Handover

• Prior to use, verify that temporary works are installed by a competent person (as per Appendix 1 of Temporary Works Procedure) and as per design
• Record verification and handover inspections using approved Inspection and Handover checklists

Inspection & Maintenance

Temporary works must be inspected by a competent person:

• As per designer and/or manufacturer’s requirements, relevant legislation, Codes of Practice, Australian standards, etc.
• Following events that may affect stability
• Complete inspection records on approved inspection checklists

Emergency Response

Emergency response must consider:

• Injury during erection and dismantling
• Collapse of temporary works
• Damage to permanent works
• Access to affected areas
• Maintain emergency access and egress to work areas

PRO-HSEQ-27 Temporary Works

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Scaffolding

Scaffolds must be erected, inspected, maintained and verified as safe for use by competent persons in accordance with the design, applicable standards and legislation.

Planning & Design

• Identify operational needs for scaffold and add to design brief
• Designer is qualified to the complexity outlined in Temporary Works procedure
• Scaffold plans include layout, tie-in details, suitability of foundations and structures, etc.
• Consider Emergency Response during erection, dismantling and regular use

Competency & Licensing

• Personnel erecting, dismantling or modifying scaffold 4m or above hold relevant Scaffold High Risk Work License (HRWL): Basic, Intermediate or Advanced
• VOS (or equivalent) is required for scaffold less than 4m high
• Personnel operating or working in Swing Stage require an induction and Working at Heights competency (QLD requires specific training)

Erecting & Dismantling

• Follow safe erection/dismantling sequence incl. risk assessed fall prevention method
• No dropping or throwing of materials between levels or to the ground
• Use safe lifting and lowering methods for gear (e.g. Ropes, baskets)
• Display ‘Under Construction’ signage and restrict access during construction
• Use universal lift-off preventer/alternate Layher clamp with Layher scaffolding

Handover & Inspections

• Use a competent person to inspect and document scaffold prior to use, at regular intervals not exceeding 30 days (or as per risk assessment), or after adverse weather or incident
• Handover Certificate required for new and modified scaffold
• Place a scaffold tag with Duty rating and last inspection date at all access points
• Maintain the Scaffold Register

Height Safety Equipment

• Where there’s a fall risk of 2 or more metres, wear safety harnesses with lanyards attached to rated anchor points
• Anchor points rated to 15kN (1 person) or 21kN (2 persons)
• Secured industrial safety nets may be used below work platforms (no more than 2m high)
• When working over water, wear a PFD and a harness with lanyard anchored independently of scaffold system

Swing Stage

• Erect, modify and dismantle Swing Stages using an Advanced Scaffolder or Advanced Rigger
• Complete inspections using Advanced Scaffolder (or Experienced Engineer in QLD) and record on Swing Stage Handover Certificate prior to use
• Complete PRE-12 Swing Stage Pre-start inspection before work begins

PRO-HSEQ-49 Scaffolding

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Working at Heights

To prevent falls, prioritise engineered controls, ensure safe access and only use verified fall protection systems installed and operated by competent persons.

Access and Egress

• Consider and control access and egress risks for all types of platforms, height access systems or temporary works
• Use adequate access and egress for the work front type, i.e. Secured single ladders, stairs with appropriate tread measurements, etc.
• Access points are unobstructed and well maintained (including lighting)
• Consider Emergency Response access

Edge Protection

• Guard Rails may be used to prevent a fall from an open edge
• Design temporary systems as per Temporary Works Procedure and rate for the potential load
• Standard rail heights: Top rail (900–1100mm), mid-rail (500mm) and kickboard (≥150mm)
• Protect access points with gates. Safety chain can be used to mark safe distances from open edges

Penetrations & Openings

• Cover all open penetrations with suitably rated material and signpost
• Include penetration risks in SWMS and risk assessments
• Do not travel mobile equipment over penetrations unless covered with rated steel plate
• Secure a hatch cover or rail to prevent falls through a work platform’s access openings

Fall Arrest and Restraint Systems

• Ideally use Fall Restraint over Fall Arrest system
• Where Fall Arrest is used, harness with lanyard must limit fall distance to a max. of 2m
• Inspect and tag harnesses, lanyards and associated fall protection equipment quarterly using a person who holds either WAH qual, PAUEQU001 Height Safety equipment Inspection or Intermediate Rigger. Maintain on register
• Personnel using fall protection equipment must hold WAH competency

Access Systems

• Do not work from ladders (except platform ladders)
• Portable ladders to be a min. load rating of 120kg
• EWP operators hold competency for EWP class
• Boom-type EWP >11m requires HRWL-WP (not scissor lifts)
• Personnel working in BMU’s to hold WAH qual. and wear Safety Harness
• Induct the operators controlling Mast Climbers into safe operation
• Have a Critical Lift and WAH Permits in place when using Workboxes

Rope Access

• Basic RA work needs at least two IRATA technicians, including one IRATA Level 3. More complex tasks/manning requires a larger team size and IRATA L3 coverage (as needed)
• Equipment is maintained, traceable and inspections recorded
• Use Hierarchy of Rope Protection to identify and mitigate damage to ropes
• Independently secure and anchor tools and equipment >8kg
• Develop and approve Rescue Plans prior to starting works

PRO-HSEQ-17 Working at Heights

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Falling Objects

Identify dropped object risks and implement exclusion zones, containment systems, tool and equipment tethering, and secure materials.

Risk Assessment

• Assess and document falling object risks in a risk assessment. Implement adequate controls
• Falling objects can be from:

    – Personnel working with tools and material at height

    – Objects falling from cranes, forklifts, warehouse/workshop shelving, etc.

    – Objects or material falling into confined spaces or excavations

Overhead Protection Systems

• If a dropped objects risk exists and an exclusion zone can’t be made, use an overhead protection system
• Suitably design and rate gantry and hoardings for public access areas, and to prevent object deflection into adjoining areas
• Suitably rated and designed (including attachment components) catch platforms may be used at higher points

Height Access Systems

• Use drop mats or containment systems on work platforms to stop objects falling through gaps
• Use toe boards to prevent tools, material and equipment from falling over platform sides
• Use containment sheeting to stop materials from blowing off high work platforms
• Maintain good housekeeping, regularly removing excess materials and waste

Exclusion Zones

• Erect barricading to delineate the drop zone. Consider object deflection or wind influence when selecting size of area
• Use hard barricading in public/high-risk areas
• Place signage around perimeter
• Use barricading height of 900mm

Tools & Equipment

• Connect specialist tool lanyards to all tools and equipment used at height incl. removable batteries
• Connect tools and equipment at all times (even when not in use)
• Use suitably rated tool lanyards
• All tools, equipment and attachment points are to be inspected prior to use
• Do not modify any tools or securing equipment
• Keep all tools/equip inside toolboxes/bags and/or containers

 PRO-HSEQ-19 Dropped Object Prevention and Protection

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Cranes and Lifting

Plan all lifts, use competent personnel, verify equipment and ground conditions, maintain exclusion zones, and never place any part of the body under a suspended load.

Planning

Critical Lifts require a Permit for lifts, including:

• More than 85% of crane capacity
• Loads over 20T
• Using more than one crane
• Near to live services
• In heavily populated work areas
• Lifting of personnel in workboxes
• Where instructed by Project Manager or higher

Crane Set-Up

• Outriggers set per load chart and operator’s manual
• Don’t set up near trenches, excavations or embankments without engineering approval
• Engineering assessment required for critical lifts or poor ground conditions
• Display current WorkSafe/CraneSafe registration

Training & Competency

• Crane or Forklift Operators to hold relevant HRWL
• Duty of Care (VOC, RTO) training is required for Telehandlers and earthmoving equipment
• HRWL is required for suitable earthmoving equipment and telehandlers with jib (used to lift loads and exceed S.W.L of 3T)
• Use Dogman or Rigger with HWRL (when judgment required) or when directing suspended load

Operating Conditions

• Stop operations in wind speeds as per operator’s manual or during lightning activity
• Establish positive communication by two-way radios or hand signals
• Daily Pre-Start inspection on all lifting plant and equipment
• Load charts and operations manual to be available

Lifting Equipment

• Proof Load Testing completed prior to the equipment’s first use and after any major repairs, alterations or modifications
• Quarterly inspection and tagging to be done by person holding Dogman HRWL and maintained on Lifting Equipment Register
• Faulty or defective equipment must be tagged out of service and quarantined

Suspended Loads

• Inspect loads for damage and unsecured items
• Lift loads from rated lifting points or basketed
• Tag lines must be used (≥16mm synthetic). Never attach to rigging gear
• Risk assessment required for hands-on guiding within 300mm of placement
• Never place any part of the body under a suspended load
• Establish exclusion zones for crane and load path

PRO-HSEQ-15 Lifting Rigging and Crane Operations

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Excavation

Identify services, assess and control ground stability, and maintain safe access, egress, and working conditions in excavations

Services

• Issue an Excavation & Penetration Permit where services are within 2m or drawings are unavailable
• Identify services using BYDA, drawings or locator devices
• Pot holing is required within 2m of known services (and when services are common onsite without accurate drawings available)
• Use spotters during mechanical excavation
• Maintain controls to keep mobile plant clear of live services (including overhead)

Ground Stability

• Assess excavations below footings or near buildings with a suitably qualified engineer
• Benching/battering to be suited to ground conditions and comply with Codes
• Ground Support systems are required for Excavations >1.5m deep (when appropriate), benching/battering can’t be done or where risk of collapse is identified
• Regular inspection and assessment of excavation stability to be conducted

Ingress/Contamination

• Water ingress from ground water, surface drainage, watercourses (etc.) to be identified and controlled
• Stop Work process in place where contaminated soil is been identified
• Introduction of atmospheric contaminants (eg. Gas or diesel fumes) to be identified and managed, i.e. Use of generators in excavations

Working Near Excavations

• Maintain an exclusion zone of min. 1m beyond the excavation’s ‘zone of influence’ for plant, materials and spoil (unless ground support is in place)
• Only plant, equipment and materials directly involved in works may enter the ‘zone of influence’
• Use controls to keep mobile plant clear of live services (including overhead power lines)
• Install barriers where excavations are next to frequent plant or pedestrian movement

Establishing Work Zones

• Barriers and signage to be placed min. 1m back from excavations
• Determine barrier type via the nature of works and site conditions:
  • <1.5m bunting/flagging where public and other site personnel not at risk
  • >1.5m hard barricade/hoarding min. 900mm
• Danger Signage (Do Not Enter or Deep Excavation) placed around excavation barrier

Deep Excavations

• Excavation Permit required for all excavations >1.5m
• Suitable access and egress to excavations is required incl. min 2 points per 9m of trench
• Use working at height barriers where risk of fall >2m
• Protection from objects falling onto workers in deep excavations, i.e. Trench boxes extending above trench edge, guardrails/toe boards around working edges

PRO-HSEQ-20 Excavation and Penetration

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Mobile Plant

Separate people and plant, implement safe systems of work, and ensure equipment is inspected, maintained and operated by competent persons

Selection & Work Areas

• Plant risk assessment required for all plant (assess ROPS and FOPS requirements)
• Complete pre-mobilisation checklists
• Risk assess operating area incl. ground/surface stability, overhead services, surface grade of travel paths
• Plant to be suitable for operations i.e. enclosed Cabs/Cages for demolition, all terrain, etc.
• Develop Traffic Mgt Plan outlining plant operating areas, and delineate pedestrian/vehicle movement and exclusion zones

Mobile Plant Interface Adhere to 3 Commandments:

• Separate– Maintain a distance of at least 10m from mobile plant
• Signal– spotter or any other personnel wishing to approach mobile plant must signal to operator and wait for confirmation of the signal to enter 10m exclusion zone
• System– Personnel working within or entering 10m exclusion zone (eg. Spotter) must have approval and a safe system of work with the mobile plant

Service & Inspection

• Competent operator to complete and record Pre-start Inspections daily and prior to use
• Report any defects to Supervisor for review and approval of operation
• Servicing done at required intervals and records maintained with plant. Notify Supervisor if operating hours/km’s is approaching next due service
• Plant not to be modified without engineering and registration process

Training & Competency

• Operators must hold relevant ticket/license for the plant used
• Where required by client or project, a valid VOC for the plant shall be completed
• Personnel undertaking maintenance of plant are to hold relevant competency and training to perform work
• HRWL is required for earthmoving equipment and telehandlers with jib used to lift loads and exceeds SWL of 3T

Standard Operating Conditions

• Mobile Plant must be fitted with seatbelts, reverse alarm, flashing light, horn, fire extinguisher and first aid kit
• Access and egress allow for 3 points of contact
• Assess fall from height risks to for refuelling works
• Correct loading and unloading processes for plant transportation

PRO-HSEQ-07 Plant Management

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Electrical

Isolate, lock out, test for dead and only allow licensed electricians to work on electrical systems using compliant equipment and permits

Electrical Hazards/Work 

Electrical Hazards and Work include:

• Working on energised electrical equipment or installations
• Working near electrical systems, such as:
  • Ground and wall penetration
  • Operating near power lines
• Uncontrolled electrical energy release, such as:
  • Arc flash
  • Static electricity
• Unsafe or improperly used electrical equipment or installations

Permits & Signage 

An Electrical Work and Isolation Permit is mandatory for:

• An Electrical work and Isolation Permit is mandatory for:
  • Low and high voltage electrical work
  • Performing electrical isolations
  • Electrical re-energisation
• Obtain Network Operator permits/approvals for work within designated zones
• Isolation signage with lockout devices to incl. ‘Personal Danger Tag’, ‘Do Not Operate’
• Display ‘Danger – Live Electrical Equipment’ around exclusion zones for energisation/de-energisation work

Electrical Tools and Equipment/RCD’S

• Elevate electrical leads with insulated hooks/stands
• Use earthing for portable equipment (eg. Generators) and equipment that generates static electricity (eg. Blast and paint equipment)
• Use RCDs with electrical equipment
• Use correctly rated electrical equipment and leads for operating environment
• Do not piggy back plugs or double adaptors or piggy back leads through a RCD
• 40m Extension lead length at 15 or 20Amp
• Use insulated or non-conductive platforms/ladders for electrical work

Inspection & Testing

• Quarterly Test and Tag of portable electrical equipment using the RGBY colour system
• Annual Test and Tag required for office equipment and appliances
• 6 mthly testing of transportables, RCDs and construction wiring incl. switchboards
• Pushbutton test portable RCDs daily when connecting
• Users are to complete daily pre-use inspections of electrical tools and equip, and record on applicable Pre-Start forms
• Use Out of Service Tags and Quarantine areas for damaged or faulty items, and report to the Supervisor

Licenses, Certificates & Handover

• Undertake electrical work with a suitably qualified Electrician with an A Grade license for the type of work
• Company with an electrical contractor’s license only may perform works
• Electrical Supervisor shall sign off all electrical work conducted by apprentices
• Provide a State/Territory regulator specific Electrical Compliance Certificate for wiring and installation work
• Verification required of State/Territory regulator or network operator requirements for handover procedure (i.e. WA – Preliminary Notice, Notice of Completion and Electrical Safety Certificate)

PRO-HSEQ-21 Electrical Safety

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Confined Space

Confined Space Entry (CSE) can only occur under permit with appropriate isolations, atmospheric testing, continuous monitoring, standby supervision and a verified rescue plan.

What Is a Confined Space (CS)? 

An enclosed or partially enclosed space that is not intended or designed primarily for human occupancy, within which there is a risk of one or more of the following:

• • Has an atmosphere with unsafe oxygen levels

• Contaminants present (gases, vapours or dust) that may cause injury from harmful concentrations or fire/explosion
• Engulfment

Controlled Access & Isolating Hazards

• Approved Confined Space Entry Permit and Register to be in place
• ‘Danger Confined Space – Entry by Permit Only’ signage to prevent unauthorised entry
• Positively isolate the space from inflows, energy sources and potential contaminants
• Control potential hazards introduced by work activities inside space i.e. Hot Works

Atmospheric Testing & Monitoring

• Atmospheric testing required prior to entry or re-entry, and recorded on the permit
• Continual monitoring required for the duration that a worker is in the space
• Testing to be undertaken by a person who holds a valid Gas Test Atmosphere Competency

Communication & Monitoring

• Confirm communication process with personnel inside and out prior to start
• Standby person must never leave entry point when workers in space and must continually monitor workers without interference
• Standby person must never enter the CS for a rescue

Training & Competency

• Entrants must hold valid Confined Space Entry qual.
• Standby must hold valid CSE qual. along with Gas Test and Provide First Aid Certs
• Supervisors of CS work must hold valid CSE qual. and Duratec Moodle
• Where a rescue requires entry to space, the ER team are to hold specific training as per procedure

Emergency Response

• Unless otherwise risk assessed, rescue is to be performed by Standby person from outside
• Emergency Equipment to be identified in Confined Space Rescue Plan
• Where ERT is required for internal extraction, there shall be 1 Rescue person to every 4 people inside CS

PRO-HSEQ-14 Confined Space

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Working Around Water

Assess and control risks when working around water, use appropriate PFDs and rescue equipment, implement safe systems for access, vessels and emergency response

Plan & Assess 

Work conducted in, on or near water must be adequately risk assessed. A permit is required when, (but not limited to):

• Working from barge, vessel or boat
• Working within 2m of exposed edge near water
• Rope Access over water
• Diving operations
• Scaffolding works over water

PFDs & Life Saving Equipment 

Annually inspected Auto-PFD Level 150 (min) to be worn when there is a risk of falling into the water, incl:

• WAH over water
• Working <2m from open edge
• EWP or Workbox over water (where assessed harness hook-up may not be required)

Emergency Rescue/Task Assessment to identify other equipment such as Life Rings, Whistles, Lights, Grab Hooks, Flares, Buoys etc.

Tools & Equipment 

Pneumatic and/or battery powered tools should be used. Where electrical equip/leads are to be used, they must be:

• Connected to RCD or earth leakage safety switch
• Prevented from falling into water
• Appropriately IP rated for liquid ingress
• Inspected, tested and tagged

Perm/temp installed equip to be managed/maintained as per relevant standards, e.g. Winches, hydraulics, gensets.

Vessels

• Vessels must have appropriate Survey, USI, Certificates (incl. outlined equip e.g. VHS, Flares, etc.)
• Vessel Safety Mgt System in place
• Operators to hold suitable competency for vessel class
• All personnel to have induction/familiarisation to vessel
• Continually monitor weather/sea conditions
• Stability assessment for additional cargo handling, etc.

Diving Operations

• Dive Plan, SWMS and Diving permit to be in place
• Detailed Emergency Response assessment
• Divers to have current (>12 mths) medical fitness cert and relevant license as per AS/NZS 2299.1
• ADAS Dive Supv. to be present at all times
• Standby Diver and competent dive attendants present
• Pre-dive checklist and logs maintained
• Display international code-A flag with all round visibility

PRO-HSEQ-25 Working Above, In or Near Water

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Hazardous Atmosphere

Assess exposure risks, provide appropriate ventilation and respiratory protection and eliminate ignition sources in hazardous atmospheres.

What Is a Hazardous Atmosphere?

• Contaminated Atmosphere: A space where there is an introduction of a substance or material that when inhaled causes heath issues e.g. Abrasive Blasting, Welding facilities
• Flammable Atmosphere: A space that has a mixture of gases, vapours or combustible dusts with air that (if ignited by an ignition source) can cause an explosion or fire, e.g. Spray painting, flour silos

Respiratory Protection

• Use Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) for all activities that make harmful fumes or dust. Complete a risk assessment to decide the type of required respirator and filters
• At a min. use the following RPE:
  • Abrasive Blasting: Supplied-air blast helmet with bib and cape
  • Airless Spraying: Half Face Respirator with A2 and P3 filters
  • Welding: Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) Helmet with Particle Filter (HEPA/P3/P100)
  • Some activities in a CS may require Supplied-Air Respirators, e.g. Welding

Ventilation

• There are 3 ventilation types:
  • Local exhaust
  • Forced dilution
  • Natural dilation (least effective)
• Base ventilation type on the activity and expected exposure
• Ventilate chemical storage to prevent fume build-up
• When the Exposure Standard is likely exceeded (for specific activities), use atmospheric monitoring to find out how effective the ventilation used is

Standard Operating Conditions

• Earth Airless Spray units, Abrasive Blasting Units and Welding equipment
• All electrical equipment/installations in enclosures/buildings with typically hazardous atmospheres to be intrinsically safe, i.e. Blast & Paint sheds
• Eliminate ignition sources from area and have adequate Emergency Response Equipment available
• Verify Workplace Exposure Standards (WES) for type of Hazardous Substances being used and follow atmospheric and health monitoring requirements

PRO-HSEQ-40 Personal Protective Equipment

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Stored Energy

Before working on any system, isolate, lock out, verify zero energy and any controls for stored energy hazards.

What is Stored Energy and Pressure?

• Stored energy is energy retained within equipment, plant or systems, even when shut down or not operating
• Sources include electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, thermal, pressure and gravitational energy
• Treat all stored energy sources as live until proven otherwise

Process for Isolating Source of Stored Energy

• Isolate all energy sources using approved methods and positive isolation wherever practicable
• Where possible, establish two independent barriers against the release of hazardous energy
• Control residual or stored energy through dissipation, restraint or other suitable means
• Verify energy sources are isolated and/or controlled before work starts

Isolation and Energy Control

• Isolate all energy sources using approved methods and positive isolation wherever practicable
• Where possible, establish two independent barriers against the release of hazardous energy
• Control residual or stored energy through dissipation, restraint or other suitable means
• Verify energy sources are isolated and/or controlled before work starts

Safe Systems of Works

• Identify stored energy hazards during planning, risk assessment and permit processes
• Only authorised and competent persons may isolate or work on stored energy systems
• Establish exclusion zones and line-of-fire controls where uncontrolled energy release could occur
• Stop work if the isolation or energy control measures cannot be verified

Engineering Control

• Provide clearly identified and lockable isolation points
• Use suitable safeguards such as relief devices, interlocks, guards, restraints, blocks and mechanical stops
• Inspect and maintain controls in accordance with manufacturer requirements and applicable standards
• Do not bypass, modify or disable safety devices

Pressurised Equipment

• Inspect and maintain hoses, fittings, vessels and regulators
• Depressurise, drain and vent systems before breaking containment.
• Verify zero pressure at the point of work
• Fit and maintain hose restraints, whip-checks and guards where required
• Never exceed equipment ratings

Emergency Response

• Ensure emergency shutdown devices are functional and accessible where required
• Raise the alarm, isolate the energy source where safe to do so and evacuate if an uncontrolled release occurs
• Report incidents immediately and follow site emergency response procedures

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Live Services

Identify, isolate and protect all services using permits, exclusion zones and non-destructive methods before and during work.

Identifying Services 

Ensure services are identified using:

• Dial Before You Dig services
• As built /As Constructed drawings/Master Site Plans
• Electromagnetic cable locators, GPR
• Visually assess for indications of embedded services within vicinity
• Verify using non-destructive methods, e.g. Potholing

Notifications & Isolations

• Asset owner notification requirements met
• Where possible, isolate or de-energise services prior to commencing works (cutting, core drilling, excavation, working near OH services, entering ceiling space)
• Every person working on isolated equipment shall fit their own lock and/or Personal Danger Tag
• Test for dead prior to commencing works

Permits

• Approved Permits internal & third party (asset owner/client)
  • Excavation & Penetration
  • Ceiling Space Work
  • Electrical Work & Isolation
• All personnel to sign on to Permit prior to works commencing

Overhead Power Lines

• Use non-destructive methods for excavation (hand digging, vacuum excavation>1500psi)
• Spotter in place at all times
• If mechanical excavation is used to locate UG services, follow below:
  • Spotter to hand‑dig 100mm before excavator digs
  • Continue manual checks until service is found
  • Use insulated hand tools
  • Expose approx. 1m around service to check for other services

Underground Services

• Use non-destructive methods for excavation (hand digging, vacuum excavation >1500psi)
• Spotter in place at all times
• If mechanical excavation is used to locate UG services, follow below:
  • Spotter to hand-dig 100mm before excavator digs
  • Continue manual checks until service is found
  • Use insulated hand tools
  • Expose approx. 1m around service to check for other services

PRO-HSEQ-20 Excavation & Penetration | PRO-HSEQ-21 Electrical Safety

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Hazardous Materials (HM)

Identify hazardous materials, implement approved control plans, use appropriate PPE, and ensure handling, monitoring and disposal are undertaken by competent or licensed personnel as required.

Identify, Assess & Plan

• HM include ACM, silica, and hazardous coatings (e.g. lead, chromium, arsenic)
• Sampling must be done and analysed by a NATA-accredited laboratory (if required)
• Develop detailed management and control plans for all hazardous material works
• Regulatory notification is needed for ACM removal and lead risk work (ACT, NSW, VIC, Comcare, SA, WA)

Health Monitoring

• Personnel doing works are subject to specific health monitoring
• Intervals may vary depending on type of material and results from baseline monitoring
• All records are confidential and are only available to applicable personnel and the individual
• Further action is required where results are outside the acceptable level or as advised by medical practitioner

Emissions Monitoring & Containment

• Monitor emissions as per Australian Standards or Codes of Practice for the Hazardous Material
• A competent person must verify levels are below workplace exposure standards
• Use HEPA filter vacuum’s and ventilation systems to reduce airborne emission
• Based on method of removal or hazardous material type develop a containment system

PPE

• Respirators (with correct level of Protection Factor) for material and work is required
• Risk assessment used to determine the type i.e. Half face with specific filters, Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR)
• Other PPE:
  • Disposable coveralls
  • Boot covers or steel toe rubber boots
  • Safety Goggles

Licensing, Training & Competency

• Asbestos Removal license: Class A – all types and Class B – non friable only
• Supervisor of Asbestos Removal to hold qual.
• Asbestos Awareness Training/NSW Asbestos Removal VET Course
• Silica Awareness Training as per regulatory requirements
• Hazardous Coating Removal internal training/competency

Waste Removal & Clearance

• Specific waste removal requirements exist for Hazardous Materials. Consider permit requirements for ‘Protected Waste’ may include Laboratory testing of by product
• Specific containment with labelling of hazardous material type e.g. Sealed, double wrapped at least 200µm thick with ‘CAUTION ASBESTOS’ or ‘HAZARDOUS WASTE’ for other materials
• Final Clearance Inspections/certificates by licensed/competent person

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