Guide to working safely in people's homes - Workplace Health and Safety Queensland
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www.worksafe.qld.gov.au Department of Justice and Attorney-General Guide to working safely in people’s homes Workplace Health and Safety Queensland
Acknowledgement
This guide was first published in 2001 as an initiative of the
Health and Community Services Industry Sector (HACS). The
guide has been updated in consultation with community
service organisations, unions and associations to ensure
existing and the future needs of the industry sector are met.
The assistance of the working party is gratefully
acknowledged, in particular, representatives from:
• Aged Care Queensland Incorporated
• Blue Care
• Caritas Care
• Cerebral Palsy League Queensland
• Disability Services Queensland
• Endeavour Foundation
• Queensland Nurses’ Union
• RSL Care
• Anglican Diocese of Brisbane.
© The State of Queensland (Department of Justice and Attorney-General) 2011
Copyright protects this document. The State of Queensland has no objection to
this material being reproduced, but asserts its right to be recognised as author
of the original material and the right to have the material unaltered.
The material presented in this publication is distributed by the Queensland
Government as an information source only. The State of Queensland makes no
statements, representations, or warranties about the accuracy or completeness
of the information contained in this publication, and the reader should not
rely on it. The Queensland Government disclaims all responsibility and all
liability (including, without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses,
losses, damages and costs you might incur as a result of the information being
inaccurate or incomplete in any way, and for any reason.
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
Table of contents
Acknowledgement.................................................... 2 Latex allergy....................................................12
Introduction..................................................... 4 What are the controls?.............................................12
Definitions................................................................ 4 How to tell if the controls are working.....................12
Workplace health and safety obligations......... 5 Hazardous substances/chemicals...................13
Who has obligations?............................................... 5 What chemicals could workers be exposed to
and how will it affect them?.....................................13
How to meet the obligations..................................... 5
Who has legal responsibilities?...............................13
Who has responsibilities to workers when
working in the home environment?........................... 5 What to consider when assessing the risks.............13
How to respond to changes...................................... 6 What are the controls?.............................................14
Reporting incidents.................................................. 6 How to tell if the controls are working.....................14
Manual tasks................................................... 7 Electrical.........................................................15
Types of injuries........................................................ 7 What are the legal responsibilities?.........................15
What are some of the problems of working Who has legal responsibilities?...............................15
in a home environment?........................................... 7
Slips, trips and falls.........................................17
How to identify problem manual tasks..................... 7
What are the contributing risk factors?....................17
What are the risk factors?......................................... 8
How to reduce or prevent slips, trips and falls
What are some possible controls? ........................... 8 injuries....................................................................17
How to tell if the controls are working...................... 8 Driving risks for workers.................................18
Aggressive behaviour....................................... 9 What are the controls?.............................................18
When are workers exposed to aggressive How to tell if the controls are working.....................18
behaviour?................................................................ 9
More information............................................19
What are the risk factors?......................................... 9
Legislation...............................................................19
What are the controls?.............................................. 9
How to tell if the controls are working...................... 9
Checklist examples and other tools................ 20
Accessibility and safety of premises checklist........ 20
Occupational stress . ......................................10
How to determine the source of occupational
Manual tasks checklist................................... 22
stress.......................................................................10 Equipment checklist....................................... 23
What are the risk factors?........................................10 Hazardous substances checklist.................... 25
What are the controls?.............................................10
Checklists overview........................................ 26
How to tell if the controls are working.....................10
Checklists outcomes...................................... 27
Biological hazards........................................... 11
How are workers exposed to infectious
diseases?................................................................. 11
What are the controls?............................................. 11
How to tell if the controls are working..................... 11
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
Introduction
This guide provides practical advice to Health and
Community Service organisations about how to manage
workplace health and safety for community workers
working in people’s homes.
The guide outlines many common hazards found in
the community services sector primarily in the home
environment, and provides solutions based on the
principles of risk management.
It is important for all relevant parties, including clients
and primary carers, to work together to identify workplace
health and safety risks and the best ways to manage them.
Definitions
• Client – a person receiving a service in their home.
• Worker – personal carer, care provider, nurse, social/
welfare worker, therapist or other people performing
health care or community work at the direction of an
employer.
• Primary carer – person who otherwise provides care to
the client.
• Workplace – any place where work is, or is to be,
performed by a worker or a person conducting a
business or undertaking.
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
Workplace health and safety obligations
Who has obligations? If the assessment shows that workers are exposed to
significant risks, service providers will determine whether
The relevant person who is an employer (as a service they need to modify or suspend that particular service
provider, or host employer of subcontractors or agency until the risk has been adequately controlled. Client
staff ), has an obligation under the Workplace Health and advocacy groups are available to work with all parties to
Safety Act 1995 to provide a healthy and safe workplace address the issues.
for themselves, their workers, including agency staff and
subcontractors, and anyone else in the workplace.
The workplace for this industry includes: Who has responsibilities to workers when
• private homes (e.g. a house, unit or caravan)
working in the home environment?
• residential care homes Employers (as service providers, or host employers of
subcontractors or agency staff ), clients and/or primary
• other community settings.
carers and their families should work together to provide a
Workers, including subcontractors or agency staff, also safe environment for workers.
have an obligation to:
Employers (as service providers, or host employers of
• comply with instructions given by the employer subcontractors or agency staff ) should:
relating to the delivery of the care plan
• clearly communicate and understand what services
• only undertake activities that have been agreed to in are to be provided
the client service agreement
• assess additional services before being performed
• wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and be
• review an activity that may have changed to ensure the
trained in its use.
controls are still working or need to be altered
• document the daily monitoring of the service using
How to meet the obligations various methods (e.g. a communication folder/book
Service providers must conduct a risk assessment in the or electronically) particularly where there are several
home, before providing any service to the client, to identify service providers or several community workers for a
potential hazards and put appropriate controls in place to particular client.
reduce the risk of injury or illness for clients, carers and Clients and/or primary carers should:
other workers.
• maintain a safe work environment (e.g. repair broken
The risk assessment must follow the five-step risk steps, mow long grass, restrain animals, provide
management process (see Figure 1 below) and be done in adequate lighting)
collaboration with clients, their families and/or landlords.
• look after their own in-home safety (e.g. maintain
Control measures should also be identified while
electrical equipment and install smoke alarms and
developing the client’s care plan.
safety switches to switchboards)
• cooperate with service providers and workers
Step 1:
Identify hazards
to ensure safe work procedures and a safe work
environment (e.g. move furniture to allow adequate
work space, use lifting equipment based on assessed
needs)
Step 5: Step 2 • keep their equipment safe, well maintained and in
Monitor and Assess and good order
review prioritise risks
Consultation • inform service providers and others of any known
should be carried
out at each step hazards.
of this process
Step 3:
Step 4:
Decide on control
Implement control
measures including
measures
hierachy of control
Figure 1
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
How to respond to changes Changes to service arrangements
Changes to service arrangements could include:
Changes will sometimes occur which can affect workplace
health and safety. These changes should act as triggers to • changes in the service required
review the activity to appropriately follow up and manage • requested staff change by client or by worker
them.
• changes in alternate service provider.
Changes to the health status and needs of the client In situations where time does not allow normal
The health status and needs of a client may change over assessment and planning, service providers should:
time, or they may have injuries or illnesses that must be • complete a provisional assessment
managed in the short term. Service providers need to • make interim arrangements
respond to these changes and reassess their activities to
ensure the risks are controlled. • follow up with long-term arrangements.
Regular monitoring of client status is the preferred method If staff or service providers change, the expectations and
of planning and managing change. Where change is process for managing change should be clearly stated up
required, it is important to negotiate the changes with the front. This can be explained in client information material.
client and their families.
Early reporting of concerns to the service provider’s Reporting incidents
manager/coordinator can initiate the need for a review of
Reporting incidents is an important part of a good
the care plan. The concerns raised should be documented
workplace health and safety system.
for future reference.
Incidents that should be reported include:
Changes to the home environment • injuries to clients or workers
A client’s home environment can change between visits. • emergency situations
Changes may include:
• near miss incidents where there is no injury but
• positioning of furniture requires preventative action.
• inoperable electrical equipment Workers should be provided with and briefed on reporting
• people or animals are now present and emergency procedures. Early reporting of identified
• altered storage patterns hazards, injuries, near misses or concerns or changes in
• spills or leaks client circumstances by workers should be part of normal
work duties. Telephone reporting of concerns by workers
• new equipment or furniture to managers/coordinators should be documented.
• obstructed access.
Community service workers need to:
• determine at each visit the safety of the client’s
home as a workplace before commencing duties
• undertake a visual scan of the client’s home
immediately on arrival, and of the equipment
before use.
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
Manual tasks
Community service work frequently includes manual tasks • Sudden damage – caused by intense or strenuous
which also involves the handling of people in their homes. activity or unexpected movements such as when
Examples of common manual tasks include: people who are being handled move or change
position suddenly.
• assisting with transferring, bathing and dressing
clients Most injuries are due to wear and tear in daily tasks.
• pushing wheelchairs Although an injury could appear to be the result of an
overload situation, the event that triggered the injury may
• loading and unloading from vehicles
have been the ‘last straw’ on already damaged tissues.
• moving furniture
• gardening and maintenance tasks
• cleaning and other domestic tasks. What are some of the problems of
The risk of injury related to manual tasks is increased
working in a home environment?
when the work requires: Workers providing services in a home environment could
be faced with:
• overreaching
• significant bending and twisting • working in isolation without assistance for team
handling
• handling of awkward, large heavy loads
• the home not designed for health or personal care
• prolonged holding of the worker’s body part in one
(e.g. low bed heights)
position or doing similar actions for long periods.
• working in restricted work spaces such as small
Commonly it is a combination of these factors that bathrooms
increases the risks.
• the home being laid out to suit the client’s preferences
• a change in the client’s physical and mental condition
between visits
• workers from other agencies also providing assistance
for the client.
How to identify problem manual tasks
Not all manual tasks are a hazard. Problem manual tasks
can be identified:
• by walkthrough observations
• by discussions with the clients
• with mobility assessments
• by noting known high risk manual tasks identified by
injury/incident data
• when making a change
• after an incident has occurred.
Types of injuries
The types of injuries that can occur from manual tasks are:
• Gradual wear and tear – caused by frequent or
prolonged periods of muscular effort associated with
repeated or continuous use of the same body parts,
including static body positions.
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
What are the risk factors? • provide:
- mechanical aids or assistive devices (e.g. in a
The direct risk factors commonly seen in community
minimum lift approach for people handling)
service activities are:
- smaller carry cases, boxes or cartons for taking
• Forceful exertion – where the body has to generate items into the home
significant force to perform the task (e.g. moving
- mobile and portable equipment supplied with
furniture).
dedicated trolleys or transfer/handling equipment
• Working posture – the following postures can strain
• modify the workplace layout, process or equipment.
body tissue, affect the amount of effort required to
Some modifications to the workplace layout and
complete the task and quicken muscle fatigue:
equipment may require negotiations with the building
- awkward postures such as twisting, bending or owner and/or client. Examples include:
overreaching of the body (e.g. making a low bed)
- installing grab rails and a shower hose in the
- static positions where part of the worker’s body shower
is held in one position for prolonged periods (e.g.
- raising the height of the bed to minimise
prolonged squatting when showering client).
prolonged bending, (e.g. use purpose-built blocks
• Repetition/duration – performing a similar task over a under the legs of the bed to raise the height of the
prolonged period without a break, not allowing that bed)
part of the body to recover (e.g. mopping a large house).
- relocating furniture to allow enough space for the
The contributory factors that cause these risk factors include: worker and the client to turn and carry out a task
in a comfortable posture, or to move equipment
• Workplace layout and environment such as:
such as a commode or wheelchair
- furniture that promotes uncomfortable working - storing equipment and/or objects within easy
postures because it is fixed at the wrong height or reach and storing heavy or frequently used items
is non-adjustable (e.g. a low bed) between knee and shoulder height
- limited space or access to complete handling tasks - providing clear access through the home
– this will promote bending, twisting or being in
• develop a ‘minimum lift’ approach where all people
an awkward or fixed posture (e.g. working in a
handling tasks are evaluated and controlled so that
cluttered bedroom).
workers are not handling all or most of a client’s
• Characteristics of the client when being assisted – a weight
major risk factor specific to people handling tasks:
• train workers in safe work procedures including work
- size, weight, shape and dimensions methods and use of mechanical aids and equipment
- medical and/or physical condition of the client • ensure that the equipment provided is in good order
- psychological functioning (e.g. behavioural and well maintained
problems of the client)
• plan work to alternate between heavy and light
- the client’s ability and/or willingness to assist. activities
• Work organisation – the way work is organised and
• ensure work/rest schedules are adequate for the work
how procedures are administered affects the level of
being done.
risk, such as:
- regular maintenance of equipment
- appropriate staffing levels for the caseload (e.g. a How to tell if the controls are working
number of highly dependent clients seen in one shift) • conduct regular audits to ensure controls are effective
- the need for a second person for certain transfers and being used
- extended work days or excessive work hours. • review client’s condition and the work environment
regularly
What are some possible controls? • encourage reporting of hazards, incidents and early
symptoms
Some possible controls for managing risks from manual
tasks including people handling are: • consult with staff and follow-up on issues raised.
• eliminate (e.g. use a maxi taxi to transport clients in
their wheelchairs instead of loading and unloading the
wheelchairs into/out car boot)
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
Aggressive behaviour
Aggressive client behaviour is an important health • providing reliable communication devices to maintain
and safety issue for many community service workers contact between the employer and the worker
providing services to people in their homes. If aggressive • providing personal duress alarms and training staff in
behaviour is not managed properly, workers are at high their use
risk of physical injury or psychological illness. However,
• developing and implementing procedures for workers
steps can be taken to minimise these risks.
and managers setting out preventative strategies and
the steps to be taken if an incident occurs
When are workers exposed to aggressive • avoiding the need for workers to carry money or
valuables:
behaviour?
- organise direct debit system for collecting co-
Some situations may expose workers to the risk of payments
aggressive behaviour when working:
- provide a suitable container for carrying money or
• with clients who have challenging behaviours that medication that is not easily identifiable
may be related to a medical condition or intellectual - discourage workers from wearing jewellery and
impairment carrying large amounts of cash
• alone and/or in isolated environments • refusing or modifying services until risks are
• in an environment where other people may pose a risk eliminated or minimised (the referring agency and
to workers’ personal security (e.g. client’s family and other service providers should be advised of this
friends). situation):
- authorise workers to discontinue services if they
believe their personal safety is at risk
What are the risk factors?
- ensure workers have access to well maintained
The following risk factors should be considered when motor vehicles so they do not break down in
determining workers’ exposure to aggressive behaviour: unsafe locations or times
• type of aggressive behaviour workers may be exposed • providing training for workers on:
to (e.g. verbal abuse vs physical abuse) - dealing with client aggression
• frequency and severity of exposure to aggressive - de-escalation and avoidance strategies
behaviour; look at incident or hazard reports
- the organisation’s policies and procedures relating
• layout of the workplace (e.g. ability of the worker to to aggressive behaviour
remove themselves from the area if required)
• providing support personnel as necessary
• need for workers to carry money or medication
• providing counselling services for workers as required.
• being aware of client’s behavioural triggers
• other risk factors that have been identified by workers
and/or other service providers How to tell if the controls are working
• any existing controls put in place to minimise the risk. • consult with staff and follow-up on issues raised
• conduct regular audits to ensure controls are effective
and being used by staff.
What are the controls?
The following controls can be used to prevent or minimise
the risks from aggressive behaviour:
• providing services in a more secure environment (e.g.
community centres)
• redesigning or refurbishing existing environments
so they are more secure (e.g. provide a ‘safe room’,
remove potential weapons from the environment, or
install a physical barrier in cars between the driver and
the client)
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011
Occupational stress
Occupational stress can be defined as the physiological To conduct a risk assessment for occupational stress, the
and emotional responses that occur when workers risk factors listed above should be considered by:
perceive an imbalance between their work demands and
• observing interactions between workers, and between
their capability and/or resources to meet these demands.
workers and clients
Stress responses occur when the imbalance is such that • having one-on-one discussions with workers
the worker perceives they are not coping in situations
• conducting focus groups or worker surveys
where it is important to them that they do.
• acknowledging, understanding, and where necessary,
investigating worker complaints.
How to determine the source of
occupational stress What are the controls?
The source of occupational stress can be determined by Following are some controls that can be used to manage
evaluating: the risks from psychosocial issues:
• productivity levels • reviewing staffing levels to ensure appropriate staffing
• rates of absenteeism skills mix and numbers regularly
• separation rates/turnover • providing clearly defined job descriptions, policies and
• exit interviews procedures
• staff engagement/morale • ensuring managers have the competencies required
• client feedback to manage their work team’s exposure to occupational
stress (e.g. list some of HSE management
• peak/seasonal demands competencies)
• incident reports and data trends. • providing information to clients about how they are
expected to behave and the consequences to service
provision if these expectations are not met (check that
What are the risk factors? the client clearly understands)
Stressors or risk factors for occupational stress may • reviewing organisational and performance
include: management systems
• workloads or excessive demands from employers, • having policies and procedures for managing conflict
clients or others at the workplace (physical, emotional, and workplace harassment
and cognitive) • providing staff training and strategies on how to
• poorly defined job roles manage workloads, resolve conflict, job rotation,
• low control of what work tasks are done and how they maintaining a balanced relationship and appropriate
are performed boundaries with client
• poorly managed conflict or work relationship problems • providing counselling services for staff where
with supervisors and/or colleagues applicable
• incidents involving a threat to wellbeing (e.g. physical • refusing or modifying services to the client if an
violence or the threat of physical violence with or environment is too high risk.
without a weapon)
• poor support from managers, supervisors, and/or How to tell if the controls are working
peers (this may include working alone or in an isolated
environment) • consult with staff and follow-up on issues raised
• poorly managed change processes • conduct regular audits to ensure controls are effective
and being used by staff.
• low levels of recognition and reward
• emotional attachment to a terminally ill client
• emotionally distressing situations.
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Biological hazards
Biological hazards expose workers and clients to infectious - handling and laundering soiled linen hygienically
disease risks. Good infection control practices will protect - handling and disposing of waste appropriately,
workers and clients from acquiring healthcare associated including clinical waste
infections.
- reprocessing reusable equipment and
Some infectious diseases such as rubella (i.e. German instruments.
measles), cytomegalovirus and chickenpox may pose • ensuring that workers adopt transmission-based
additional risks to pregnant workers with the potential for precautions for clients known or suspected to be
adverse pregnancy outcomes. infected or colonised with infectious agents that may
Emerging infectious diseases such as pandemic influenza not be contained by standard precautions alone. These
should also be considered and appropriate planning and are extra work practices needed to contain infection
preparedness should be implemented. risks and should be tailored to the particular infectious
agent involved and the mode of transmission. This
may include wearing specific personal protective
How are workers exposed to infectious equipment like respirators and providing client
dedicated equipment.
diseases?
• developing protocols for managing accidental
Workers may be exposed to infectious diseases through exposure to blood and body substances, sharps
activities such as: injuries and other infectious disease exposures
• health and personal care of clients including first aid, medical referral and access to
• contact with a client’s blood and body substances post-exposure prophylaxis (chemoprophylaxis) where
appropriate
• handling contaminated items and equipment
• providing information, instruction, training and
• household cleaning, including the cleaning of blood supervision in infection control practices
and body substance spills
• providing workers with hand hygiene amenities
• handling soiled laundry (e.g. alcohol-based hand rub) where hand hygiene
• handling and disposing of clinical waste including amenities are not readily available in a client’s home
sharps • implementing an occupational immunisation program
• unsafe food handling and storage practices in accordance with the current edition of the National
• contact with a client’s animals and animal excreta. Health and Medical Research Council’s The Australian
Immunisation Handbook
• ensuring appropriate work placements and work
What are the controls? restrictions (e.g. do not assign a non-immune worker
Some of the controls that can be used to manage to care for a client with a known vaccine-preventable
infectious disease risks include: disease such as chickenpox)
• ensuring workers adopt standard precautions for the • providing adequate supplies of personal protective
care and treatment of all clients and when handling equipment (PPE) in a range of sizes and instructing
all blood and body substances, non-intact skin and workers in the correct selection and use of the
mucous membranes. This includes: equipment
- personal hygiene practices, particularly hand • ensuring aggressive dogs are secured before the
hygiene, and covering cuts and non-intact skin worker enters the workplace to prevent animal bites,
with a water-resistant dressing and animal excreta is hygienically cleaned.
- using personal protective equipment, which may
include gloves, gowns, plastic aprons, surgical How to tell if the controls are working
masks, safety eyewear and face shields
• consult with staff and follow-up on issues raised
- handling and disposing of sharps safely, and
using safety engineered medical devices such as • conduct regular audits to ensure controls are effective
retractable needles where appropriate and being used by staff.
- cleaning the home environment and managing
blood and body substances spills
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Latex allergy
Some people may develop allergies to latex products. Some workers may be at greater risk of developing latex
Three types of reactions that can occur when using latex allergies, such as workers with pre-existing food allergies
products are: or atopy (i.e. a tendency towards allergies such as asthma,
hay fever or eczema).
• Irritant contact dermatitis – this non-allergic condition
is the most common reaction to latex products and is Risks to workers from exposure to latex allergy must be
caused by: assessed and managed.
- skin irritation from the accumulation of moisture,
sweat, soaps and detergents on the skin
What are the controls?
- incomplete hand washing and drying
Some controls for managing latex allergy hazards include:
- prolonged glove use
- the cornstarch which is added to some latex • eliminating non-essential use of latex gloves, (e.g.
gloves. provide workers with non-latex gloves for activities
that do not involve contact with blood and body fluids
It causes dry, itchy skin, usually on the hands which
such as routine housekeeping or food preparation)
resolves once contact with the latex product is
discontinued. • providing low protein, powder-free latex gloves or
latex-free gloves such as vinyl or nitrile gloves
• Allergic contact dermatitis (also known as delayed
hypersensitivity reaction or Type IV) is caused by an • providing workers with information on latex allergy
allergy to chemicals added during the manufacturing and safe work practices
of latex gloves (e.g. thiurams and carbamates). It
• instructing workers to wash their hands with soap and
causes a rash and blisters on the hands, usually
water after removing latex gloves to remove natural
occurring several hours after contact. Repeated
rubber latex proteins from the skin
exposure may cause the skin condition to extend
beyond the area of contact with the latex product. • ensuring workers do not use oil-based creams or
• Latex sensitivity (also known as latex allergy, lotions with latex gloves, as these can cause the
immediate hypersensitivity reaction or Type I) is gloves to deteriorate
caused by an allergy to latex proteins and is a more • instructing workers to report health problems from the
serious condition. Symptoms usually occur soon after use of latex gloves, and ensure that affected workers
exposure and include: seek medical attention
- a local or generalised skin rash
• identifying clients who may have a latex allergy and
- hives ensure that health and personal care is provided to
- itchy eyes these clients in a latex-safe environment.
- runny nose
- wheezing. How to tell if the controls are working
Note: Rarely, anaphylactic shock can occur, which is a life-
threatening emergency. • consult with staff and follow-up on issues raised
• conduct regular audits to ensure controls are effective
and are being used by staff.
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Hazardous substances/chemicals
There are a number of chemicals used in community The MSDS for each hazardous substance supplied to
service work, particularly for cleaning, laundry and the workplace must be kept in a register that is easily
gardening tasks. Some of these chemicals may be accessible to workers using the substances.
hazardous with the risks increased in areas with
poor ventilation (e.g. shower alcoves, ovens or small Labelling containers
gardening sheds). The effects from exposure to hazardous Suppliers of hazardous substances must ensure a label is
substances can range from minor skin irritation to chronic fixed to the container stating the:
diseases such as occupational asthma and various forms
of cancer. • product name
• chemical name
Note: Medications, with the exception of a few such
as cytotoxic (anti-neoplastic) drugs, are not classified • substance’s risk and safety phrases.
hazardous substances. These labels are essential to ensure a user of the
substance knows what precautions to take when using it.
All chemicals are hazards that should be identified and
managed. Decanting chemicals should be avoided where possible to
prevent the risk of someone being exposed to substances
to which the correct safety precautions are unknown. If
decanting cannot be avoided, and the entire contents of
the container are not used immediately, a label must be
fixed to the container stating the substance’s product
name, and risk and safety phrases. Unlabelled substances
containers that were used immediately should be
discarded immediately after use.
What to consider when assessing the
risks
The risks to health from exposure to hazardous substances
must be assessed, taking into consideration the:
• routes of exposure or entry to the body associated
with the substance (e.g. MSDS may indicate that the
What chemicals could workers be substance can inflame eyes)
exposed to and how will it affect them? • probability that an event may occur from exposure
(e.g. how often the substance is applied as an aerosol
Disinfectants and cleaning solutions are a common
(mist) which may get into someone’s eyes)
cause of chemical injuries among workers in the home
environment. Substances, like sodium hypochlorite • length of exposure time relating to the dose which may
(bleach) are an irritant and, in high concentrations, may be delivered with each exposure and is also important
cause burns to the skin, mucous membranes and eyes. information when considering exposure standards
related to the substance
• consequences that may result from exposure
Who has legal responsibilities? (e.g. MSDS indicate exposure to eyes may cause
impairment).
Material safety data sheets
The MSDS and the label on the container will provide
The employer must obtain, from the supplier, Material some useful information to assist in conducting the risk
Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), for each hazardous substance assessment.
supplied to the workplace. The MSDS contain:
A sample assessment checklist is provided on P25.
• chemical and physical properties of the substance
• health hazards and first aid information
• precautions for safe use and handling.
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011A record of the risk assessment must be made including • administration:
the:
- the employer should provide:
• date and outcomes of the assessment o training on how to use a particular substance
• product name of substance o information on how to store chemicals and
• control measures for managing the risk medication out of the reach of children
• details of any monitoring or health surveillance o training for the selection, use and
needed. maintenance of PPE.
What are the controls? How to tell if the controls are working
The following controls may be implemented to manage • consult with staff and follow-up on issues raised
exposure to hazardous substances: • conduct regular audits to ensure controls are effective
and are being used by staff.
• elimination:
- eliminate the use of the hazardous substance
- assess if the task is essential, to establish if it
can be eliminated, particularly if workers have
experienced adverse health effects from using the
substance in the past
• substitution/isolation/redesign:
- use the substance in a different way that
prevents or minimises the risk from exposure to
the substance (e.g. pouring a chemical from a
container or applying it as a jet rather than using
as a fine aerosol if the chemical could cause an
eye injury)
- substitute a hazardous chemical with a less
hazardous one, which is better suited for domestic
use
- provide workers with a limited range of cleaning
chemicals that are low or non-hazardous
including:
o diluted chemicals
o detergent and warm water for routine
environmental cleaning of surfaces in
the domestic situation rather than using
hazardous substances such as bleaches (e.g.
use appropriate cleaners for cleaning up body
fluids)
- secure the substance in the original container and
store in a location according to instructions
- use an exhaust fan or open windows for adequate
ventilation while working with the substance
• personal protective equipment appropriate for the
task should be provided (e.g. gloves and safety
glasses)
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Electrical
What are the legal responsibilities? Who has legal responsibilities?
The Electrical Safety Act 2002 (the Act) and the Electrical
Safety Regulation 2002 (the Regulation) define obligation
Electrical equipment in client’s premises
holders for electrical safety and prescribe ways for the safe When a health or community service is provided in the
use of electricity and electrical equipment. client’s home, workers may have to use the client’s
electrical installation and electrical equipment (i.e. power
Section 30 of the Act states, ‘that the employer or self- points, lights, extension leads etc).
employed person has an obligation to ensure persons
business or undertaking is conducted in a way that is The Regulation does not prescribe all of the ways to fulfil
electrically safe’. the requirements of the Act; however Section 30 of the Act
states that, ‘the employer or self-employed person has an
Subdivision 5, Service or Office Work, Section 92-94 of the obligation to ensure a persons business or undertaking is
Regulation details the requirements that when met, will conducted in a way that is electrically safe’.
contribute to fulfilling the person’s obligation in relation to
the performance of service or office work. Therefore, when the electrical equipment does not belong
to the employer or self-employed person, one way for the
Safety switches/inspection, testing and tagging worker or self-employed person to fulfil this obligation
requirements could be to:
Section 93 of the Regulation, requires that certain • Visually inspect the electrical installation to
electrical equipment defined as ‘specified electrical satisfy themselves as to the electrical safety of the
equipment’ (full definition can be found in Section 83 of installation, paying particular attention to details
the Regulation) provided for use by an employer or self- such as damaged or missing parts and burning
employed person in the provision of health and community or discolouration of the electrical fittings in the
services MUST be either: installation (e.g. damaged light switch or cracked
power point).
• connected via a safety switch, or
• Avoid using the client’s electrical equipment (i.e.
• inspected, tested and tagged by a competent person.
electric kettles, vacuum cleaners, extension leads
For a safety switch to be deemed compliant for specified etc) if possible, as the employer or self-employed
electrical equipment in the health and community services person is not in control of the electrical condition of
industry, safety switches must be: this equipment. If the client’s equipment is to be used,
then it should be visually inspected before use, with
• a Type 1 or Type 2
attention to damaged or missing parts (e.g. frayed
• fixed or portable leads, faulty switches, exposed wiring).
• tested to the requirements of Australian and New
The equipment should then be connected via a compliant
Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3760:2003, In-service
safety switch. Although many residential premises have
safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment
their power circuits fitted with a safety switch, there is no
(refer to Section 94 of the Regulation).
regulatory testing requirement for these safety switches.
or In such circumstances, the employer or self-employed
person can use their own portable safety switch.
The specified electrical equipment can be inspected,
tested and tagged at the intervals prescribed in Section 93
of the Regulation.
Specified electrical equipment for providing health and
community services includes:
• extension leads
• power boards
• other electrical equipment which is moved for the
purpose of its use and during its use (e.g. vacuum
cleaners, floor polishers, hairdryers).
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland | Department of Justice and Attorney-General
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Use of equipment
Employers and self-employed persons should ensure that
workers are trained in the safe use of electrical equipment.
Training should include how to:
• conduct a visual inspection, and
• how to carry out the push button test of a safety
switch.
Extension leads should be:
• located where they are not likely to be damaged and
do not present a trip hazard when in use
• fully extended prior to using if fitted to a coiling device
or reel.
Electrical equipment should be used and stored in a
manner which does not damage the electrical fittings
(e.g. don’t overstretch extension cords), and it should
not be exposed to harsh or damaging environments (e.g.
chemicals, water) unless the equipment is specifically
designed for use in these environments. Extra low voltage
or battery-powered equipment may be an alternative in
these environments.
Double adaptors and ‘piggy back’ plugs
Although the use of double adaptors and ‘piggy back’
type plugs is permitted in the health and community
services industries, their use should be discouraged and
alternatives such as power boards used.
Administration
Keeping records of electrical equipment and its testing
requirements will help ensure adequate testing is carried
out when required.
A training program should be implemented and provided
for workers in the safe use of electrical equipment
including:
• correct use and operation
• visual assessment/inspection requirements
• emergency procedures
• defect reporting requirements.
Obligation holders should also implement a reporting
mechanism for defects, ensuring defective or faulty
equipment is removed from service and managed so as to
prevent inadvertent use. Once identified, repairs should be
carried out promptly by an authorised repair agency and
alternative equipment supplied free from defects.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland | Department of Justice and Attorney-General
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Slips, trips and falls
Slips, trips and falls account for a significant number of How to reduce or prevent slips, trips and
injuries in the community services sector. Workers, clients
and their families may be exposed to slip and trip hazards falls injuries
inside and outside the house. Some simple and cost effective measures that can reduce
Slips usually occur when there is a loss of grip between the or prevent the number and severity of slips, trips and falls
shoe and floor (i.e. when there is a contaminant between injuries for workers, clients and their families are:
the shoe and the floor). • good housekeeping practices
Trips occur when a person’s foot hits a low obstacle in the • ensuring the floor surface is in good order such as
person’s path, causing a loss of balance. It is often due to being free from:
an obstacle that is not easily seen or noticed. - holes
- uneven surfaces
What are the contributing risk factors? - curled up linoleum
- carpet edges
Some of the various risk factors that contribute to slips
and trips are: • avoiding changes in floor surface level, or if this is not
possible, highlighting these changes (e.g. on the edge
• Contaminants – can be anything that ends up on a of the step in a split level home)
floor. It could be wet (e.g. water or oil), or dry (e.g.
• providing adequate storage facilities
talcum powder or plastic bags). Preventing floor
contaminants and attending to spills immediately is • ensuring lighting is adequate to see the area clearly
one of the best ways to prevent slips. without glare or shadowing to highlight potential slip
or trip hazards
• Slippery floor surfaces, especially in areas which
• checking and replacing light bulbs to appropriate
may become wet or contaminated (e.g. bathrooms
wattage
and toilets). Additional anti-skid tape may be put
on external steps to improve surfaces as a short- to- • ensuring workers are able to maintain their balance
medium term measure. when performing tasks and be able to recover if they
slip or trip:
• Spills and cleaning – spills should be cleaned up
- when carrying a load, workers should have full
promptly to prevent slipping. Minimising walking on
view of where they need to travel and should also
recently cleaned floors will also prevent the risk of
have a free hand to hold onto a rail when walking
slips or trips. Cleaning affects both indoor and outdoor
down steps
areas:
- when using a ladder, ensure the correct ladder is
- indoor – floors should be cleaned properly with available for the job and at least three points of
the right amount and type of cleaning product contact are maintained at all times to maintain
used so that the floor does not become too stability and balance
slippery
• ensuring footwear is:
- outdoor – growth (e.g. moss and slime) and leaf
- suitable for the type of work and work
litter should be cleared from pathways.
environment
• Obstacles and other trip hazards – trips most
- comfortable with an adequate non-slip sole and
often occur because of uneven flooring or cluttered
appropriate tread pattern
walkways with low obstacles which are not easily
seen or noticed. Common examples of low obstacles - checked regularly to ensure treads are not worn
include: away or clogged with contaminants
- designed to provide support and stability when
- electrical leads
worn.
- uneven edges to flooring
- loose mats or carpet tiles
- changes of floor surface levels.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland | Department of Justice and Attorney-General
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Driving risks for workers
Driving motor vehicles is a significant part of a worker’s How to tell if the controls are working
day when providing services in peoples’ homes, and may
be exposed to the following risks: • consult with staff and follow-up on issues raised
• conduct regular audits to ensure controls are effective
• driving when tired
and being used by staff.
• poorly maintained vehicles (e.g. tyres, brakes, lights)
• noise from driving long distances with windows down
• unrestrained equipment in the vehicle
• driving in poor conditions.
What are the controls?
Possible controls that should be considered to reduce
motor accidents include:
• reducing driving times by:
- grouping clients by locality where possible
- checking that the required equipment or
consumables are packed before leaving the base
• securing all equipment for transport (e.g. in the car
boot or behind a cargo barrier)
• developing a safe driving policy for the organisation,
including road rules such as wearing seat belts and
mobile phone use
• verifying drivers are appropriately licensed and include
this requirement in position descriptions
• purchasing vehicles with safety accessories/extras
(e.g. air bags, bull bars, ABS brakes, air conditioning,
tinted windows)
• ensuring staff transporting dangerous, awkward
goods, or people with wheelchairs, are appropriately
trained for the task
• encouraging workers not to drive if the road conditions
are poor, unclear or unpredictable
• ensuring information on road rules and defensive
driving training is made available to all workers
• ensuring drivers report defective vehicles and all
incidents resulting in injuries or damage
• maintaining a system of:
- recording and monitoring incidents
- monitoring each driver and vehicle (e.g. accident
and service records)
• ensuring daily motor vehicle checks are carried out by
the driver (e.g. operational lights, condition of tyres)
• ensuring an accredited mechanic carries out regular
vehicle maintenance in accordance with vehicle
requirements
• ensuring vehicles are appropriately insured.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland | Department of Justice and Attorney-General
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011More information
More information about specific workplace health and
safety topics discussed in this guide is available on
www.worksafe.qld.gov.au or by calling WHS
Infoline 1300 369 915.
For information about electrical safety,
visit www.eso.qld.gov.au or
call 1300 650 662.
Some of the topics include:
• Host employers
• Labour hire agencies
• Risk management
• Manual tasks
- Manual Tasks Code of Practice 2010
- Manual Tasks Involving the Handling of People
Code of Practice 2001
• Strains and sprains
• Workplace harassment
• Occupational stress
• Latex allergy
• Hazardous substances
• Cytotoxic drugs and related waste
• Material Safety Data Sheets
• Slips, trips and falls
• Electrical safety
Legislation
• Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995
• Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2008
• Electrical Safety Act 2002
• Electrical Safety Regulation 2002
For information about oxygen use (in house and
portable), refer to the Queensland Health’s Handbook
for home oxygen therapy 2009, or by accessing the
website www.health.qld.gov.au
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland | Department of Justice and Attorney-General
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011Checklist examples and other tools
The following checklists are not exhaustive.
You may wish to add or delete items according to your own circumstances.
The checklists should be completed in consultation with the workers involved.
Accessibility and safety of premises checklist
Please indicate the appropriate response. A “No” answer means that the hazards should be assessed and control
measures considered where the assessment indicates it is necessary.
Date of inspection:
Address of
premises:
Accessibility and safety of premises Yes/No Nature of hazard identified/ Hazard report completed
Outside the residence
Is it safe to park the vehicle on the road?
Is the gate easy to open and close?
Is the pathway from vehicle to house safe
(e.g. lighting, steps, ramps, rail, trip hazards
and overgrown vegetation)?
Are pets restrained and/or
non-threatening?
Is there a safety switch on the switchboard?
Are doorways clear, free from obstruction
and easy to open and close?
Are there any hazards presented by pools,
dams or other waterways?
Inside the residence
General – Are the following safe?
• floor surface (level and smooth)
• access ways (level and uncluttered)
• power points
• electrical cords
• temperature/humidity
• lighting
• position and design of furniture
If there are tasks involving working at
heights, is there a safe method of carrying
out the work?
Are smoke detectors fitted and appropriately
situated?
Are smoke detectors tested every three
months? (sight evidence)
Is there a fire evacuation plan in place?
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Guide to working safely in people’s’ homes. PN10797 Version 3 Last updated February 2011You can also read
