PART 20


106) A controller has been engaged to undertake building maintenance work in a busy warehouse. Outline the issues that should be covered in an induction program for the contractor’s employees.

The particular risks in the working area ( e.g movement of forklift trucks, falling materials, conveyers & the possible presence of asbestos).
General site safety rules regarding smoking, clothing & PPE.
Use of electrical equipment and so on.
Requirements for permit to work and other control.
Exclusion zones & traffic routes.
Arrangements for the storage of materials.
Accident reporting & other emerging procedures (e.g. action required in case of fire).
viii) The location & use of welfare facilities including first-aid.

 107) A) Outline Three work activities that may present a particular risk to pregnant women.

Manual handling or physically strenuous work.
Task involving long periods of standing or sitting.
Work involving exposure to the biological agents or chemical substances that might affect unborn child.
Work in hyperbaric environment (e.g. those above normal atmospheric pressure).
Tasks involving exposure to ionizing radiation.
Unusually stressful work including exposure to high levels of noise and hot environment.
Jobs that expose peoples to an increased risks of injury ( e.g. due to slipping or violent assault). Have particular implications for pregnant women.
Activity of radiographers exposed to X rays (standing). (swelling of feet-edema, varicose veins, dizziness & fainting).
Sitting for long time – thrombosis, embolism).


B) Outline the actions that an employer may take when a risk to a new or expectant mother cannot be avoided.
(Reg -16 of MHSWR-1999).

Changing the employees working conditions (e.g. finding other suitable work or introducing additional breaks) or
Changing the hours of work, if not,
The employer would need to consider suspending the employee from work on full pay for as long as is necessary.

108) List the powers given to H & S enforcement officers appointed under the HSWA-1974.

Powers of Inspector’s , Section 20 – HSWA -1974 with Section 21, 22, 25, 39.

The right to enter premises, if necessary by enlisting the assistance of a police officers.
Carryout examinations & investigations.
The direct that premises or equipment be left undisturbed for the purpose of investigations.
To take measurements & photographs.
To inspect and / or take copies of documents and records.
To take samples.
To require a person to answer questions and signs a declaration to the truth of his/her answers.
To take possessions of articles and substances (and to seize and render them harmless in situations of imminent danger).
To issue enforcement notices.

109) Human Error- Workplace (Reducing ways)

Use of skilled, trained & competent staff including pre-employment screening issues.
Motivation of workforce.
Task variety to prevent monotony.
Frequent breaks.
Addressing environment issues-heat, light & noise.
Mechanization & automation.
Ensuring controls on machinery are clearly marked.
Implementation of drugs & alcohol policy.
Providing competent supervision of employees.


110) Hazard underestimation – reasons

1) Overfamilarity & complacency.

2) Lack of instructions.

3) Information of training.

4) Lack of experience.

5) Some hazards may be invisible.

6) Sensory impairment.

7) Involvement in routine.

8) Repetitive task that may lead to lack of attention.