01 — Foundations
The cross-cutting framework every other section in this knowledge base sits on top of: how to manage risk, how to talk about it, the baseline workplace conditions, first-aid readiness, and the shared vocabulary. Read these once and re-read the glossary any time a hazard-specific topic uses a term in bold.
Topics in this section
| Topic | One-liner |
|---|---|
| risk_management_process | The 4-step loop (identify → assess → control → review) and the hierarchy of control. |
| whs_consultation_cooperation_coordination | The "three Cs" — when to consult, how HSRs/HSCs work, multi-PCBU coordination. |
| workplace_environment_and_facilities | Air, light, temperature, hygiene, amenities — the baseline before any task-specific risk. |
| first_aid_in_the_workplace | Risk-assessing first aid, ratios, kits, rooms, procedures. |
| glossary_and_key_concepts | PCBU, officer, worker, reasonably practicable, hierarchy, SWMS, plus quick-reference document table. |
When to use this section
- Before drafting any new SWMS, procedure or risk register.
- Before any change affecting WHS — new plant, process, person, layout, contractor.
- Onboarding a new supervisor or HSR.
- After any incident, when reviewing whether the underlying process was sound.
- When a regulator asks for a risk register or evidence of consultation.
Related sections
- §02 Construction Work — site application of the foundations.
- §08 Manual Tasks, Noise & Confined Spaces — task-level risk.
Notes on currency
- Risk management (May 2018), First aid (July 2019), Three Cs (Feb 2022) — current SWA model editions at 2026-04-27.
- Work environment & facilities — source PDF is May 2018; SWA published a November 2024 model edition. Numbers in workplace_environment_and_facilities should be re-verified against the November 2024 PDF before being quoted externally.
- From 1 July 2026 (model law change): complying with an approved Code of Practice — or providing an equivalent or higher standard — becomes a positive duty, not just an evidentiary aid.