Occupational Safety and Health Training

Background

The University promotes appropriate training for staff in occupational safety and health matters, in accordance with the Murdoch University OSH Policy.

Training can be provided in various ways, including formal training, mentoring and on the job training. Training includes:

Safety induction training for all staff, contractors and others as required.
Understanding of the duty of care, relevant legislation, University safety policies and procedures for all staff.
Training for safety and health representatives and other safety personnel.
Specific training in areas of safety hazards.

Legal Requirements

The OSH Act 1984 S19. (1)(b) www.safetyline.wa.gov.au/laws.htm places a general duty of care so that 'an employer shall provide such information, instruction and training to, and supervision of his employees as is necessary to enable them to perform their work in such a manner that they are not exposed to hazards'.

What do you need to know?

As a basic guide everybody needs to know:

Key elements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984
University Safety and Health policies, procedures and guidelines
How to identify hazards in their workplace
Effects of specific hazards
Safe procedures for the use of machinery, plant and equipment relevant to their employment
Safe workplace procedures
How to report hazards, incidents and injuries
How to have a say in safe work practices and procedures

Supervisors and managers also need:

Their responsibilities for Safety and Health under the Act
Supervising skills and skills in training others
Job and task analysis skills
Hazard control awareness
Knowledge of regulations and standards
Policy development skills

Safety and Health Representatives need to know:
Note: Representatives are required to attend an accredited 5-day introductory training course covering legislative responsibilities including the following;

Occupational Safety and Health Act and supporting philosophy
Regulations
Guidance Notes
Codes of Practice
Standards
Award provisions relating to occupational health and safety
Policies and procedures relating to occupational safety and health

Training at Murdoch University

Training topics available to staff include:

New Staff Induction Training
Supervisor / Manager OSH Responsibilities
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
Accident Investigation
Manual Handling Training
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Overhead Crane Operations (aimed at the Vet Staff)

These topics can be run at any time for interested individuals, groups, teams or departments. Content and time/date arrangements can be agreed to suit the target audience. To arrange please contact the Staff Development Manager on extension 7385 or e-mail.

External Training

First Aid Training

Inductions for University Staff and Contractors

Safety inductions are an essential part of the process to ensure that university staff are made aware of the various safety roles and responsibilities within the University, general University safety and health policies and procedures, specific workplace hazards and requirements for safe working procedures.