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Specific Hazard Management Overview

Introduction​

This section provides detailed guidance on managing specific hazards common in construction work. While the general risk management process applies to all hazards, certain hazards require specific controls and have dedicated regulations.

Construction-Specific Hazards​

Construction Work​

Overview of construction-specific WHS requirements including:

  • High-risk construction work
  • Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)
  • Principal contractor duties
  • Construction induction training

Falls from Heights​

Falls are the leading cause of workplace fatalities in construction:

  • Work at heights > 2 metres
  • Edge protection requirements
  • Scaffolding, ladders, and elevated work platforms
  • Fall arrest and travel restraint systems

Excavation Work​

Excavations present risks of collapse, falls, and service strikes:

  • Excavations > 1.5 metres requiring controls
  • Shoring, battering, and benching
  • Locating underground services
  • Excavation inspections and barricading

Confined Spaces​

Spaces with limited entry/exit and unfavorable atmosphere:

  • Confined space identification
  • Atmospheric testing and monitoring
  • Entry permits and procedures
  • Emergency rescue arrangements

Demolition Work​

Systematic dismantling of structures:

  • Demolition planning and sequencing
  • Structural stability during demolition
  • Hazardous materials (asbestos, lead paint)
  • Dust, noise, and debris control

Chemical and Substance Hazards​

Hazardous Chemicals​

Comprehensive management of chemicals:

  • Hazard identification and classification
  • Safety Data Sheets (SDS) requirements
  • Labelling requirements
  • Control measures and exposure standards

Asbestos Management​

Managing and controlling asbestos:

  • Asbestos identification and registers
  • Friable vs non-friable asbestos
  • Removal requirements and licensing
  • Disposal procedures

Respirable Crystalline Silica​

Silica dust from cutting, grinding, and drilling:

  • Health effects (silicosis, lung cancer)
  • On-tool dust suppression and extraction
  • Health monitoring requirements
  • Control measures for high-risk processes

Plant and Equipment Hazards​

Plant and Equipment​

Safe use of machinery and equipment:

  • Plant registration and inspection
  • Guarding requirements
  • Maintenance and defect reporting
  • Operator competency and licensing

Electrical Risks​

Electrical hazards in construction:

  • Overhead and underground power lines
  • Temporary electrical installations
  • Residual Current Devices (RCDs)
  • Electrical work licensing requirements

Physical Hazards​

Manual Handling and Musculoskeletal Disorders​

Preventing injuries from manual tasks:

  • Identifying hazardous manual tasks
  • Assessing MSD risks
  • Control measures (mechanical aids, redesign)
  • Training and technique

Noise and Hearing Protection​

Preventing noise-induced hearing loss:

  • Noise exposure standards
  • Noise assessments and monitoring
  • Engineering controls to reduce noise
  • Hearing protection requirements

Work Environment Hazards​

Work Environment and Facilities​

Providing adequate workplace amenities:

  • Toilets and washing facilities
  • Drinking water
  • Meal facilities and rest areas
  • First aid facilities
  • Lighting and ventilation

Applying the Risk Management Process​

For each specific hazard:

  1. Identify the hazard using guidance in the relevant code
  2. Assess the risk considering specific factors for that hazard type
  3. Control using the hierarchy, following specific control requirements
  4. Review effectiveness using monitoring and consultation