Understand the nature of the harm each hazard could cause, how serious the harm could be and the likelihood of it happening. In many cases the risks and related control measures will be well known. In other cases, you may need to carry out a risk assessment to identify the nature of the harm that could be caused by the hazard, the likelihood of somebody being harmed by the hazard and how serious it could be.

A risk assessment can help you determine what action you should take to control the risks and how urgently action needs to be taken.

Controlling risks

Implement the most effective control measures that are reasonably practicable in the circumstances and ensure they remain effective over time. When implementing controls, the first thing that should be considered is whether the hazard can be eliminated, for example through cancelling outdoor work when temperatures are high. 

Substitution, isolation and engineering controls should then be considered. For example:

• substitute the hazard for something safer: for example, swap physical work for work that can be done by a machine.

• isolate the risk from workers: for example, by separating workers from hot machinery, and

• engineering controls: such as setting up shade tents outdoors and using air conditioners indoors.

Needing advice and help?

If you would like further information, please contact our team of advisors at AB Phillips Group, Monday to Friday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm AEST by phone on 1300 208 828 or email advice@abphillips.com.au   

Please note that the above information is provided as comment and should not be relied on as a substitute for detailed professional advice from AB Phillips Group or professional legal or financial advice on any particular matter. Where you would like additional information and support about the content in this document please contact AB Phillips Group.