Spades Labour Hire - Safety Guide - Specifics Notes

Specific Safety Procedures

Working at Heights

• Use fall protection for heights over 2 meters (WHS Regulation 2017, Part 4.4).
  

• Inspect height access equipment before use.
  

• Ensure all workers are trained in height safety.
  

• Use compliant scaffolding and ladders (AS/NZS 1576 and AS 1657).
  

• Secure tools and materials to prevent falling objects.
  

• Conduct regular checks on fall protection equipment.
  

• Make safe use of ladders, including inspection, setup, and usage.

Electrical Safety

• Conduct electrical work only if authorised (AS/NZS 3000).
  

• Use safety tags and isolation procedures (WHS Regulation 2017, Part 4.7).
  

• Inspect electrical tools and equipment before use.
  

• Avoid using damaged electrical cords and tools.
  

• Keep water and liquids away from electrical equipment.
  

• Ensure proper grounding of electrical systems.

Manual Handling and Tool usage

• Assess lifting risks and use mechanical aids (WHS Regulation 2017, Part 4.2).
  

• Follow manual handling procedures.
  

• Use team lifting for heavy or awkward loads.
  

• Rotate tasks to avoid repetitive strain injuries.
  

• Use ergonomically designed tools and equipment.
  

• Use appropriate PPE, ensure tools are in good condition, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions (AS/NZS 60745).
  

• Inspect all tools and power tools before use and report any defects.

Hazard Communication

• Use proper signage for hazardous areas.
  

• Update hazard information regularly.
  

• Ensure you understand the hazards associated with your tasks.

Chemical Safety

• Use chemicals only if trained in their proper handling (WHS Regulation 2017, Part 7.1).
  

• Store chemicals in designated areas with proper labelling.
  

• Follow all safety procedures for handling and disposing of chemicals (SDS).
  

• Use appropriate PPE when handling chemicals.
  

• Regularly review and update chemical safety protocols.
  

• Use appropriate respiratory protection in areas with dust, fumes, or other airborne contaminants (AS/NZS 1715 and 1716).
  

• Ensure respirators are properly fitted and maintained.

Fire Safety

• Know the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them (AS 2444).
  

• Participate in regular fire drills.
  

• Store flammable materials correctly (WHS Regulation 2017, Part 3.2).
  

• Keep fire exits and evacuation routes clear.

Noise Control

• Use hearing protection in high-noise areas (AS/NZS 1269).
  

• Monitor noise levels and implement controls to reduce exposure.
  

• Use noise-dampening materials and equipment.
  

• Limit time spent in high-noise areas.

Working in Confined Spaces

• Clearly mark and restrict access to confined spaces.
  

• Follow the permit-to-work system for entry into confined spaces.
  

• Ensure continuous atmospheric monitoring for oxygen levels, toxic gases, and explosive atmospheres.
  

• Always have a trained standby person outside the confined space.
  

• Ensure proper ventilation within the confined space.
  

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) specific to confined space hazards.
  

• Have an emergency rescue plan in place and ensure all team members are trained on it.
  

• Communicate regularly with team members inside the confined space.

Asbestos Management

• Maintain an asbestos register for sites with known or suspected asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
  

• Engage only licensed asbestos removalists for handling and disposal of ACMs.
  

• Ensure you are trained in asbestos awareness and safe handling procedures.
  

• Use proper PPE when dealing with asbestos-containing materials.
  

• Avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials unless absolutely necessary.
  

• Follow strict decontamination procedures when exiting areas with asbestos exposure.
  

• Report any suspected asbestos-containing materials to your supervisor immediately.

Traffic Safety Rules

• Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
  

• Follow the traffic management plan strictly.
  

• Use clear and precise signals to direct traffic if necessary.
  

• Communicate effectively with other site workers and your team.
  

• Ensure that all signage is correctly placed and visible.
  

• Report broken, missing or misusage of traffic signage.
  

Extreme Weather Conditions

Working in Rain

• Slippery Surfaces: Use slip-resistant footwear and be cautious of wet surfaces.
  

• Electrical Hazards: Ensure electrical tools and equipment are properly insulated and protected from water.
  

• Visibility: Wear high-visibility clothing and ensure adequate lighting.
  

• Cover and Shelter: Use tarps and shelters to protect work areas and materials from rain.
  

Working in Fog

• Reduced Visibility: Wear high-visibility clothing and ensure work areas are well-lit.
  

• Communication: Use radios or other communication devices to maintain contact with coworkers.
  

• Navigation: Mark pathways and hazards with visible signs and barriers.
  

• Slow Down: Move cautiously and avoid rushing to prevent accidents.
  

Wind, Hail

• Wind Hazards: Secure loose materials and tools to prevent them from becoming airborne.
  

• Fall Protection: Use harnesses and guardrails when working at heights, especially in strong winds.
  

• Seek Shelter: In case of severe weather like hail, seek immediate shelter to avoid injury.
  

• Pause Work: Consider pausing or rescheduling work during extreme weather conditions for safety.
  

Heat Stress

• Follow procedures to manage heat stress and recognise symptoms (WHS Regulation 2017, Part 4.1).
  

• Ensure adequate hydration and rest breaks in hot conditions.

Working Near Vehicles and Machinery

Vehicle and Machinery Awareness

• Always stay alert and be aware of moving vehicles and machinery.
  

• Never assume that an operator can see you; make eye contact and wait for a signal before approaching.
  

Safe Zones

• Stay within designated pedestrian pathways and safe zones.
  

• Be aware of and respect exclusion zones around operating machinery.
  

Communication and Spotters

• Use clear hand signals or radios to communicate with operators.
  

• Ensure operators know your location before entering their work area.
  

• Use spotters to guide vehicles and machinery in tight or congested areas.
  

• Ensure spotters are trained and understand their role in maintaining safety.
  

Machine Operation Safety

• Only operate machinery if trained and authorised.
  

• Conduct pre-operation inspections to ensure machinery is in safe working condition.
  

• Follow lockout/tagout procedures when servicing machinery.

Trade-Specific Safety Instructions

While this guide provides comprehensive safety protocols applicable to all workers, it's important to recognise that each trade may have its specific safety requirements and best practices.

At Spades Labour Hire, we expect all tradesmen to be knowledgeable about the specific safety procedures relevant to their trade and to adhere to them diligently, in addition to following the general safety instructions outlined in this guide.

General Expectations for All Tradesmen

• Compliance with General Safety Guidelines: All tradesmen must comply with the general safety protocols outlined in this guide, including the use of PPE, hazard communication, and reporting procedures.
  

• Licenses and Permits: We expect all tradesmen to have the necessary valid licenses to execute the tasks they sign up to do. Report to us if your licenses do not cover the task at hand or when they are about to expire.
  

• Awareness and Training: Tradesmen should ensure they have completed all necessary training and hold any required certifications for their specific trade. This includes staying up-to-date with any changes in safety regulations and best practices.
  

• Safety Documentation: Carry and maintain any trade-specific safety documentation or licenses required by law or regulation.
  

• Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments for specific tasks and follow established safety procedures to mitigate identified risks.
  

• Use of Trade-Specific PPE: Utilize any additional personal protective equipment required for specific trade-related tasks, ensuring that all PPE is in good condition and fits properly.
  

• Use Spades’ Reporting System and follow this guide’s instructions. 

Final Thoughts

By adhering to both the general safety instructions and trade-specific safety procedures, you contribute to a safer working environment for yourself and your colleagues. If you have any questions or need further information on trade-specific safety protocols, please reach out to your supervisor or the safety team.

Thank you for reading our safety guide. Your commitment to safety helps ensure that everyone goes home safely at the end of the day. Please obey Spades' instructions over clients' instructions. Our guidelines come first even when clients instruct otherwise. Call our allocator. 

Follow these guidelines and stay vigilant. If you have any questions or need further information, please reach out to your supervisor or the safety team.