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FATAL RISK
STANDARDS

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www.hunterwater.com.au

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V E R S I O N 1 N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7
Introduction to the
Fatal Risk Standard:
Critical Elements

Together with the Water Services Association Australia (WSAA), Hunter Water
has identified the top fatality potentials from across the Water Services Industry
and established the Fatal Risk Standards (FRS). Each FRS have Critical Elements
for each topic, which when abided by, will prevent fatalities in our workplace.
Hunter Water has developed the following Critical Elements which describe the
mandatory safety rules and procedures which are designed to;
A. Prevent fatalities, serious injuries and high potential near miss incidents;
B. Provide workers and leaders with simple, clear and concise standards so that
there is no doubt regarding the critical elements which need to be understood
and complied with before commencing a job; and
C. Provide leaders and management with clear standards so that workers can be
provided with positive feedback for safe behaviours, and sufficiently detailed
feedback on any unsafe behaviours which may need to be corrected.
The Critical Elements contained in FRS should be considered as the “Must Do’s”
which all Hunter Water personnel, contractors and visitors must comply with, to
keep themselves and others safe.
Each of the Hunter Water FRS are supported by detailed procedures. Refer to these
documents found on the Hunter Water intranet if you need further information,
alternatively contact your supervisor or the WHS team.
Hunter Water leaders conduct regular Fatal Risk Observations with Hunter Water
workers and contractors. The aim of this observation process is to observe worker
behaviours, hold a conversation with workers to gauge their understanding and
adherence to the Critical Elements and to gather feedback on the tasks. This
process is designed to provide workers with positive feedback for safe behaviours
and identify opportunities for improvement.
It is much better to “Not Look the Other way – And to Save a Life Today”

Remember:
We all need to look out for one another. We should never commence work without
the FRS Critical Element rules in place. If anyone notices a workmate, contractor,
visitor or member of the public (on Hunter Water property) putting themselves
or others at risk, we need to safely intervene, stop the activity, and ensure the
necessary controls and in place and complied with, before re-commencing work.
If any work is deemed unsafe or compliance with the Fatal Risk Standards cannot
be achieved – STOP work – contact your Supervisor.
Finally – all workers are reminded that you are fully empowered to stop any activity
that does not conform to the Fatal Risk Standard Critical Elements.
Hunter Water – Executive Leadership Team

Important note: This publication is intended as a quick reference guide only and
does not contain exhaustive detail of all the Hunter Water or legislative WHS
requirements. For further information refer to the Hunter Water WHS Standards
related to each topic or contact your supervisor or WHS team at WHSqueries@
hunterwater.com.au
Table of Contents
Asbestos 2
Bites and Stings 3
Confined Space 4
Contractor Management 5
Cranes and Lifting 7
Electrical 8
Excavation 9
Fatigue Management 10
Hazardous Manual Tasks 11
High Pressure Water Jetting 12
Hot Work 13
Isolation of Energy Sources 14
Lone or Isolated Worker 15
Mobile Equipment 16
Personal Threat 18
Prevention of Falls 19
Road Transport 20
Safe Driving 21
Sharps and Needle Sticks 22
Traffic Control 23
Underground / Overhead Services 24
Work In, on or Around Water 26
 Asbestos

At Hunter Water we:

• Treat materials suspected of containing asbestos as asbestos until proven otherwise
by sampling and analysis
• Review the Hunter Water asbestos register prior to demolition or refurbishment
work. Refer to the GIS map to check for asbestos prior to repair or replacement of
water or sewer pipe
• Following identification of non-friable asbestos e.g. water / sewer pipe or other
asbestos containing materials (ACM), stop work, review the risk assessment and
apply the controls prescribed in the Hunter Water Asbestos Standard / Safe Work
Method Statements (SWMS)
• After identifying the presence of asbestos or ACM secure / barricade the area (and wet
or cover) to control potential exposure to Hunter Water people and the general public
• Provide and wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) as determined by
the Hunter Water Asbestos Procedure and SWMS and properly dispose of
contaminated PPE
• Do not use powered equipment to cut asbestos pipe or ACM. We control potential
dust from broken pipe and ACM by removing pieces as large as possible and wetting
the material prior to and during handling and wrapping
• Safely handle, wrap and label asbestos / ACM materials by double wrapping with
200 μm plastic sheet, labelled: ‘Caution Asbestos – Do not open or damage bag.
Do not inhale dust’
• Civil maintenance store prior to disposal, wrapped and labelled asbestos / ACM
waste at the approved the Hunter Water designated asbestos storage facility
(Tarro Depot)
• Use licensed asbestos / ACM waste removers when quantities of non-friable
asbestos are greater than 10m² or any friable asbestos / ACM is to be removed
• Identify all in-situ asbestos and ACM with danger or warning signs or labels e.g. walls,
ceilings, floor tiles, electrical switch boards
• Make available the Asbestos Register and Asbestos Management Plan to Hunter
Water personnel and applicable contractors and review the register at minimum 5
yearly intervals
• Train applicable Hunter Water personnel to safely manage typical asbestos related
scenarios

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Bites and Stings

At Hunter Water we:

• Conduct and document risk assessments using the Take-5 or the On Site 3 in 1 and
refer to Work Instructions to control hazards related to animal bites and stings
• Provide appropriate first aid and equipment able to respond to an injury caused by a
bite or sting
• Implement appropriate housekeeping programs to reduce the habitat and likelihood of
bites and stings, such as lawn mowing and garbage removal
• Train applicable Hunter Water personnel to take the necessary precautions with live
animals such as dogs and snakes
• Plan for, and regularly test emergency arrangements and potential scenarios of
exposure to bites, stings and associated allergic reactions

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 Confined Space

At Hunter Water we:

• Complete a confined space entry permit for each individual confined space job
• Test the atmosphere at top, middle and bottom of the space, recording the peak
readings prior to entry. Complete ongoing or continuous gas monitoring as defined by
the entry permit
• Ensure water, sewer and other energy sources are identified and isolated in
accordance with the Hunter Water Isolation procedure to prevent engulfment /
contamination of the space, prior to entry
• Ensure there is a Safety Standby Person at each confined space with direct
communication with the confined space entry personnel
• Ensure the Safety Standby Person has the rescue equipment either set up, or
immediately available as determined the entry permit and rescue plan
• Identify and restrict entry to confined spaces using signage and secured access
• When covers or lids are removed for confined space entry, we limit fall in potential as
much as practicable by replacing lids when space is not in use and erecting
barricades / signage
• Do not conduct any hot work in or near confined spaces unless the Lower Explosive
Limit (LEL) is checked, the space is well ventilated and the necessary hot work
permits are obtained
• Conduct periodic maintenance and inspection of safety equipment including gas
monitors, safety harnesses and rescue equipment and only use equipment with a
current test tag
• Whenever a potential confined space is identified, complete a confined space risk
assessment. Record all known confined spaces on the Hunter Water Confined Space
Register which is made available to Hunter Water people and contractors.
• Plan and rehearse emergency and rescue arrangements related to incidents and
potential scenarios with confined spaces
• Wherever possible, eliminate the requirement to enter confined spaces through
improved design of assets, processes and work methods
• Ensure only trained and competent persons complete confined space work. We train
applicable Hunter Water people to safely manage confined space work.

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Contractor Management

At Hunter Water we:

• Develop a Scope of Work and a Project Risk Assessment for each project
• Ensure contractor workers, including sub-contractors hold the necessary Industry and
Hunter Water Inductions;
»» Damstra Hunter Water WHS induction (project value < $250K) or,
»» Principal Contractor construction induction – (project value ≥ $250K),
»» Hunter Water Electrical Mechanical Maintenance (EMM induction) and relevant;
––− Hunter Water Electrical Induction
––− Hunter Water High Voltage Induction
––− Hunter Water Grahamstown / Chichester Dam Induction
»» General Construction Safety Industry Induction (if applicable)
• Ensure Contractor Supervisors and other Hunter Water personnel engaging and
managing contractors complete an “On Site 3 in 1” assessment to identify the site
specific hazards and controls and high risk work permits – at or before the on-site
commencement meeting
• Ensure contractors have prepared and have available on site:
»» WHS Management Plan / Project Inductions (>$250K value projects)
»» Safe Work Method Statements / JSEA for the tasks being performed
»» Pre-start toolbox / briefing covering the daily activities, hazards and controls which
all personnel including visitors and safety observers sign on to
• Ensure contractors have prepared (or received form Hunter Water) the High Risk Work
Permits and are working in accordance with;
»» Confined Space permit » Energy Isolation plan
»» High Voltage permit » Traffic Control plan
»» Dial Before Dig clearance » Hot Work permit
»» Work at Heights permit
• Ensure contractor workers hold / have available Damstra Accreditation, Contractor
Licenses – Electrical Supervisor / Contractor, Plumbing, Builders, High Risk Work
Licenses – cranes, dogging / rigging, scaffolding and forklift and National Certificates
of Competency – Confined Space, Work at Heights etc

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• Ensure contractors are maintaining a safe worksite including the Fatal Risk Standards
or equivalent controls
• Complete periodic monitoring of WHS compliance and work quality
• Train applicable personnel to effectively complete contractor management activities

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Cranes and Lifting

At Hunter Water we:

• Enter crane exclusion zones only after gaining permission from the Crane Operator
• Keep clear of the line of fire of the load. Do not place any part of the body under the
suspended and unsupported crane load
• Ensure crane hooks designed to be fitted with safety latches have latches fitted
• Operate cranes within the Maximum Rated Capacity (MRC) – previously known and
potentially still labelled as Safe Working Load or Working Load Limit
• Use registered lifting gear with a current test tag and check condition before use.
Remove from service if damaged and fit an Out of Service tag
• Ensure defective equipment is immediately removed from service, tagged out and
reported
• Ensure crane maintenance strategies are developed and implemented to provide for
the integrity and safety of cranes. This program will be monitored for compliance
• Ensure cranes have adequate anti-derailment devices fitted where appropriate
• Ensure cranes and support structures are clear of objects which have the potential
to fall
• Ensure isolation or mechanical barriers (i.e. approved rail stops) are in place before
work is carried out on cranes or in crane travel paths, to prevent injury / damage
• Design, install, commission and maintain cranes and associated equipment in line with
legislative requirements
• Ensure modifications to cranes or crane structures are made only with the approval
of a Competent Engineer
• Train the appropriate Hunter Water people to operate cranes

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 Electrical

At Hunter Water we:

all workers
• Check portable electrical equipment for damage and a current test tag prior to use
• Use power tools protected by a residual current device (RCD) circuit or portable
RCD unit
• Identify all electrical services prior to ground excavation and penetration of a surface
• Maintain a safe distance from overhead powerlines
• Test metal pipe prior to cutting – when cutting in metal sewer and water pipes use
Plumb Guards to test for live and fit Earth Bridging Straps to maintain continuity
• Keep electrical leads up from the ground to prevent contact with water and prevent
damage
• Immediately report all electric shocks to the workgroup leader
• Electrical work is only undertaken by suitably qualified and authorised electrical
tradespersons
• Comply with access restrictions to electrical sub-stations and switch rooms
electrical workers
• Test before Touch. Assume that electrical equipment is live until proven otherwise
using approved verification method (i.e. CAT4 Multimeter)
• Isolate, lock and verify prior to working on electrical services
• Obtain High Voltage (HV) permits for all HV work
• Energised Electrical Work and Live Test can only be completed under permit approval
• Exposed conductors in the immediate work area must be protected with insulated
barrier / shrouding to prevent inadvertent or direct contact
• Obtain Low Voltage Switching Sheet permits for higher risk Low Voltage tasks
• Wear the required Personal Protective Equipment for electrical work

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Excavation

At Hunter Water we:

• Consider the hazards, risks and controls associated with excavation using the On Site
3 in 1, Work Instructions and Safe Work Method Statements
• Prior to excavation, investigate for underground services using the Dial Before You Dig
service, electronic location (scanning) and pot holing techniques
• Isolate services which have the potential to engulf the excavation, contaminate the
atmosphere within the excavation or harm the environment
• Protect persons (including public) and vehicles from falling into excavations by
demarcating the work area / zone of influence using: barriers, tape, bollards cones
and spotters
• Unattended excavations are to be protected with construction fencing, danger
signage and where practicable install protective covers (i.e. mesh panels) over the
trench opening
• Provide a safe method of entry and exit with the excavation for workers
• Ensure the stability of excavations over 1.5m deep by benching, battering and using
shoring techniques. Excavations which are not able to use these controls must have
a Geotechnical Engineers report
• Do not compromise excavation stability by placing spoil or operating vehicles within
the zone of influence. Demarcate exclusion zone using barriers, tape, bollards, cones,
spotters
• Consider the impact of the excavation on the structural integrity of nearby structures
including buildings, power / light poles, roadways and footpaths. If required consult a
structural engineer for advice
• Overhead power – demarcate overhead using warning devices. Civil and EMM place
the Blue overhead power hazard cones at worksites. Other warning device options to
be considered include Goal Posts (visual upright and overhead markers) erected on
access routes, coloured flagging, Tiger Tails. Danger – Overhead Power signage etc
• Ensure pedestrians and other workers do not enter the line of fire (travel path) of
mobile equipment or enter the exclusion zone (including reach / slew area + 3m).
Where work within this reach / slew zone is required, strict protocols must be
adhered to including maintaining a clear line of site, clear communication, signaling
and eye contact, avoid direct line of fire or under suspended loads

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 Fatigue Management

At Hunter Water we:

• Conduct risk assessments to identify all reasonably foreseeable fatigue hazards and
record controls on Take-5, On Site 3 in 1 and Fatigue Risk Assessment tool
• Ensure that working environments that could contribute to fatigue are identified,
assessed and controlled where practicable. These include but are not limited to
environments that are extremely hot or cold, noisy, have unacceptable levels of
vibration, humidity or physical and repetitive in nature
• Establish and implement fatigue management processes, which manage fatigue
factors such as shift length, on-call rosters, overtime, minimal break times, and roster
patterns
• Plan and organise work to reduce the frequency and likelihood of fatigue affecting
workers safety, health and wellbeing
• Require employees to notify their leader / supervisor whenever they feel fatigued
• Stipulate that workers are generally not expected to work in excess of 14 hours within
a 24 hour period
• Ensure all employees and managers will comply with the following protocols:
»» Up to 12 hours – Employee call dispatch at or before the 12 hour mark
»» Between 12 – 14 Hours – Investigate shutting down the job or allocating other
resources. Employer to call Dispatch and Supervisor
»» Between 14 – 16 Hours – Employee and Supervisor complete a fatigue risk
assessment. Requires Group Manager approval beyond 14 hours.
»» Over 16 Hours – Supervisor and Group Manager complete a fatigue risk
assessment. Must be approved by an Executive Manager and will only be in
exceptional circumstances such natural disasters and emergency situations.
»» 10 hour minimum rest period between shifts
»» Maximum of 12 days worked consecutively (where at least 6 hours worked per shift)
requires a 24 hour rest period before returning to work
• Educate and train the employees who are potentially affected / involved in the fatigue
management process

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Hazardous Manual Tasks

At Hunter Water we:

• Consider the hazards and risks associated with hazardous manual tasks before we
start work, using the Take-5, the On Site 3 in 1 and Work Instructions
• Consider any potential manual handling risks prior to purchasing or designing new
plant and equipment
• Always use approved mechanical lifting / handling aids in preference to manual
methods
• Check the serviceability of equipment prior to use, ensuring all safety guards,
handles and other safety devices are fitted and functioning correctly
• Only use approved and properly designed tools and equipment. We never use
improvised tools and equipment.
• Always use safe manual handling and lifting techniques and limit lifting to the
individuals own capacity and physical limitations – a good rule of thumb is 20kg
max (1 person) and 50kg max (2 persons)
• Ensure all field workers will undergo SPLAT Manual Handling training focussed
on Stance – Posture – Leverage – Adapt – Turn

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 High Pressure Water Jetting

At Hunter Water we:

• Consider the hazards and risks associated with jetting before we start work, using
the Take-5, the On Site 3 in 1 and Work Instructions
• Set up the job site to protect other people including residents and the general public
– including High Pressure Water Jetting signs, extendable poles and safety cones at
all open shafts / manholes
• Protect all shaft and manhole openings as soon as possible including the safety grate
for open manholes
• Conduct daily pre-start checks on jetting equipment including pump motor, hoses,
emergency stops and nozzles to ensure serviceability
• For Sewer Shaft Jetting operations – ensure the minimum safety controls are always
used including the rubber safety mat (planted by operator’s foot), marking the hose
with tape at the shaft length + 1m and using nutted fittings for all hose joins
• For Sewer Mains Jetting operations – ensure the minimum safety controls are always
used including the use of tiger tail and manhole cover including hose roller
• Ensure Emergency Stops are fitted at the motor of all jetting vehicles, and on the
passenger side of the Level 5 vehicle
• Ensure the remote controls under the control of the hose operator at all times, when jetting
• Stop the pump motor and turn the pump motor ignition key off when changing nozzles
and hose fittings
• Retrieve hoses carefully to reduce the potential for damage including abrasion and cuts
• Use tools such as tongs to remove and dispose of sewer debris from the manhole rake
• Wear Jetting PPE including approved safety eye wear and gloves and wash hands and
other contaminated skin at the completion of the job
• Ensure pressure washing guns are always fitted with a safety shroud secured to the
trigger mechanism, which covers the gun / hose connection
• Wear pressure washing PPE including face shield, spats or aluminium lower leg guards
if the gun barrel length permits exposure to lower legs
• Present the High Pressure Water Medical Advice Card (which are carried by all jetters
/ vehicles) to a medical practitioner in the event of high pressure injection injury
• Train applicable Hunter Water people to safely manage Jetting and Pressure
Washing tasks

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Hot Work

At Hunter Water we:

• Consider the hazards and risks associated with hot work before we start work, using
the Take-5, the On Site 3 in 1 and Work Instructions
• Complete a Hot Work permit for any hot work activities in hazardous areas / weather
conditions including welding, grinding, quick cut of metal pipe and CGTM lead jointing
• Obtain Supervisor permission before approving a Hot Work permit if the Rural Fire
Service – Fire Danger Rating is above High
• Obtain Group Manager permission before approving a Hot Work permit in Total Fire
Ban conditions
• Prepare the ground (wetting, shielding..) and maintain fire suppression controls in
accordance with the Hot Work permit for hot and / or windy conditions
• Maintain a fire watch for 30 minutes minimum after the completion of hot work prior
to closing off the Hot Work permit
• Do not conduct any hot work in or near confined spaces unless the Lower Explosive
Limit (LEL) is checked, the space is well ventilated and the necessary hot work permits
are obtained
• Conduct risk assessment and designate any permanent Hot Work areas such as
welding bays and ensure the necessary controls are in place and maintained, such as
fire suppression equipment and screens
• Train applicable HWC people to safely manage Hot Work tasks

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 OFF

Isolation of Energy Sources

Lock Out – Tag Out
At Hunter Water we:
• Consider the hazards associated with energy sources prior to work commencing
using the Take-5 and 3 in 1 Risk Assessment and ensure energy sources are isolated
and stored energy removed
• Simple Isolations will be documented by the Isolating Person using the Take-5 and the
On Site 3 in 1 Risk Assessment
• Complex isolations will have a written isolation plan developed by an Isolation Planner
• Protected persons apply their red personal lock to the isolator, hasp or group board
/ lock box when working on isolated equipment or assets
• Isolation “Lockout” of the energy source incorporates an isolation secured by
equipment locks and personal locks
• Lower risk “Non-Lockout” energy control (soft isolation) on water and sewer pipes
incorporate non-secured controls such as closing valves in accordance with the
Hunter Water Isolation procedure
• Electrical isolations performed by electricians must be full current isolations and
include a “test before touch”. Control switches must not be used for full current
isolation
• All isolations will include a verification step to prove de-energisation
• Isolation of pipe lines will include a depressurisation check before breaking into the pipe
• Energy source isolation is always considered when working in confined spaces
• Ensure that asset and equipment design supports the isolation standard by fitting
lockable isolator switches, circuit breakers or valves
• Isolators are uniquely identified / numbered to assist with planning and to avoid
confusion
• Out of Service Tag should be attached to any faulty or unsafe equipment to prevent use
• Warning Tag should be fitted to equipment to alert people of a temporary change or
modification
• Ensure Isolation Planners are assigned the task of writing complex isolation plans are
trained and competent
• Ensure isolating persons who develop simple isolation plans and isolate and lock
equipment for their own / others’ protection are trained and competent

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Lone or Isolated Worker

At Hunter Water we:

• Conduct risk assessments to identify all reasonably foreseeable hazards in relation to
working alone document controls in Take-5, On Site 3 in 1 Risk Assessment
• Ensure all personnel follow the Hunter Water fatigue management procedures
• Use the latest technologies to track our workers such as pinpoint VGPS systems,
duress pendants, man-down alarms, satellite phones, EPIRB’s and UHF radios
• Regularly test and maintain remote work safety equipment / technologies
• Ensure that Dispatch monitor lone or isolated workers, in particular on-call and
overtime workers who work out of normal business hours or workers that are
engaged in emergency situations such as super storm events
• Plan and organise work to manage the risks of working alone including scenarios
where lone work is not permitted
• Ensure when assigning work we identify environmental and individual factors that
contribute to lone worker risks and ensure risks are controlled
• Ensure that workers required to work alone or in isolation have lone worker safety
technology and adequate supplies, tools and equipment to safely undertake work
• Establish specific emergency and contact procedures and plans for all lone work
situations, with the provision of effective indirect supervision and monitoring, and
emergency, first aid and communication equipment
• Ensure that persons approving, authorising or supervising lone workers are
competent and trained in relevant work procedures
• Develop and implement training framework to ensure all workers impacted are
provided with appropriate information, instruction and training on lone worker risks
and controls

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 Mobile Equipment

At Hunter Water we:

• Assess the hazards and controls associated with mobile equipment on worksites
using the pre-task risk assessment tools such as On Site 3 in 1 Risk Assessment, Safe
Work Method Statements and Job Safety Analysis
• Complete traffic management risk assessments of Hunter Water facilities and depots
to develop traffic management plans which provide safe access and interaction of
mobile equipment and pedestrians
• Ensure mobile equipment including earth moving machinery, forklifts, load shifting, and
height access equipment, have the applicable safety features designed to minimise
the risks of pedestrian and other vehicle collision, including flashing beacon, travel /
reversing beepers, cameras and high visibility striping
• Ensure persons wear hi-visibility clothing in the vicinity of mobile equipment and hard
hats when working in the vicinity of operating earth moving machinery and cranes
• Ensure pedestrians and other workers do not enter the line of fire (travel path) of
mobile equipment or enter the exclusion zone (including reach / slew area + 3m).
Where work within this reach / slew zone is required, strict protocols must be
adhered to including maintaining a clear line of site, clear communication, signaling
and eye contact, avoid direct line of fire or under suspended loads
• Ensure that when persons need to approach operating mobile equipment, they gain
eye contact with the operator and signal intentions and the pedestrian receives
acknowledgement. The operator will cease and place the machine in a safe position,
idled down (preferably off) with implements on ground and handbrake (if applicable)
applied. Pedestrian only enters the zone when the operator signals it is safe to do so
• Wear seatbelts whenever they are fitted to mobile equipment
• Do not carry passengers unless the equipment is designed to do so
• Complete pre-start checks of mobile equipment daily, prior to the first use
• Complete maintenance of mobile equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s
service schedule
• Ensure guarding and protective covers over moving parts are fitted and serviceable
and Roll Over Protection Systems (ROPS) are fitted as required

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• Use mobile equipment for its designed purpose, ensuring that it is operated safely
and within safe operating / lifting limits (including attachments).
• Ensure loads are stable / contained on load shifting equipment i.e. forklifts,
telehandlers
• Ensure mobile equipment is stable, hand brakes applied, ignition keys removed and
secured, when parking up
• Ensure the public are separated from mobile equipment using controls such as
spotters and work site demarcation such as barrier tape and barriers / signage
• Ensure operators of mobile equipment are trained and assessed as competent.
Operators must hold any applicable National Certificates of Competency for High Risk
Equipment

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 Personal Threat

At Hunter Water we:

• Assess the hazards and controls associated with worksites and public facing offices
considering personal threat and violence using the pre-task risk assessment tools
such as Take-5, On Site 3 in 1 Risk Assessment, and Work Instructions
• Use the latest technologies to protect our workers such as pinpoint VGPS systems,
duress pendants, man-down alarms, satellite phones, EPIRB’s, UHF radios and
reception distress buttons
• Regularly test and maintain safety devices designed to protect workers
• Report and investigate all workplace personal threat and violence related hazards,
near misses and incidents
• Follow the below actions when confronted by threatening, aggressive and violent
behaviour:
»» Try to remain calm and do not argue with the person
»» Be firm but polite and let them know their behaviour is not acceptable’
»» Abusive or threatening phones – hang up
»» If armed robbery – do not make eye contact or any sudden movements and
comply with demand to hand over any cash
»» Always have an escape plan in mind
»» Report all incidents to supervisor immediately
• Ensure that our workers are provided with Employee Assistance support if they
have experienced a threatening or violent event that may need to be debriefed by
a professional
• Train workers to recognise and deal with workplace violence and personal threat

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Prevention of Falls

At Hunter Water we:

• Identify the risks and controls for falls from one level to another and any work higher
than 2m, through the pre-task risk assessments – On Site 3 in 1 Risk Assessment,
Work Instructions, Safe Work Method Statement and Job Safety Analysis
• Check for structural integrity of roofs and equipment covers prior to access
• Never work within 2m of an unprotected edge
• Prioritise work at height (fall potential ≥ 2m) controls in accordance with the following
hierarchy of controls:
»» Can the work at height be avoided? Re-design equipment or perform at ground level
»» Permanently installed access with platforms with handrail barriers
»» Fall prevention – scaffolding, elevated work platforms (harness required in boom lifter)
»» Work positioning – harness with industrial rope access system / fall restraint lanyards
»» Fall Arrest – catch platforms / nets, fall arrest harness / lanyard in conjunction with a
High Risk Work Rescue Plan. Fall arrest must consider total fall distance + 1m clearance
• Use only rated and inspected anchor points for work positioning and fall arrest. Non
rated anchor points i.e. beams, must be assessed by a competent person
• Use portable ladders and building stairs safely:
»» Extension / single ladders – are predominantly designed for access / egress. Use only
as a work platform for short duration / light tasks with 3 points of contact. Ladders
should be set up at 4:1 angle and secured top/bottom (can be footed by 2nd person)
»» Step ladders – never stand higher than the 2nd tread below the top plate. Always use
non-conductive ladders for electrical work. Use platform ladders wherever possible
»» Never exceed the 120kg min load rating of Industrial rated ladders
»» On building stairs – use handrails wherever possible. Do not carry heavy objects or
hot open beverages and never use mobile devices whilst using stairs
• Safeguard areas below work at height to prevent access and injury from falling objects
• Use barricades, fencing, or covers to prevent falls into open trenches / excavations
• Regularly inspect and maintain height equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s
requirements
• Design and install assets to consider the safe work at heights in accordance with
AS1657
• Train workers to perform work at height safely

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 Road Transport

At Hunter Water we:

• Apply “can’t see – can’t load” principles whilst loading trucks. If we lose sight of the
driver during loading we immediately stop
• Apply truck loading exclusion zone principles when loading trucks
• Restrict persons, including the truck driver, other workers and the public, from
entering the loading zone whilst loading is in progress
• Ensure loads are effectively contained on the truck during the truck loading process
• Ensure loads are properly restrained or contained in accordance with the Hunter
Water approved Load Restraint Guidelines and National Road Transport Commission
– Load Restraint Guide before moving vehicles on site or driving on public roads
• Ensure when a load arrives and it appears to be unstable, complete a risk assessment
to safely contain the load prior to the removal of any of the load restraints.
• Do not exceed the load capacity or vehicle dimension limits on public roads
• Ensure workers are trained and competent in the Truck Loading Exclusion Zone rules,
Load Restraint Guidelines and relevant Chain of Responsibility laws
• Cover and contain tools, equipment and materials on utility style vehicles
• Ensure truck drivers are appropriately licensed to operate the following heavy
vehicle classes
»» HC – Heavy Combination – heavy articulated vehicles with three or more axles.
Heavy rigid vehicle trailer combinations including unladen dolly, with three or more
axles. Any towed trailer with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) more than nine tonnes
»» HR – Heavy Rigid – heavy rigid trucks with a GVM more than eight tonnes, and
three or more axles. Any towed trailer must not weigh more than nine tonnes GVM
»» MR – Medium Rigid – medium rigid trucks with a GVM more than eight tonnes and
two axles. Any towed trailer must not weigh more than nine tonnes GVM
»» LR – Light Rigid – Small trucks with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) up to eight tonnes.
Any towed trailer must not weigh more than nine tonnes GVM
• Comply with the NSW Government vehicle driver blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
and other drug laws;
»» BAC of 0.00 – (Zero) for P plate license holders
»» BAC under 0.02 – vehicles of “gross vehicle mass” greater than 13.9 tonnes
»» BAC under 0.05 – all other typical vehicle license holders

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Safe Driving

At Hunter Water we:

• Drive Hunter Water vehicles defensively and responsibly by adjusting our driving
behaviours to the road and traffic conditions, scanning the environment for hazards
and never assuming other drivers have seen you
• Inspect vehicles for faults prior to each use, report faults and arrange repair
• Maintain vehicles in a roadworthy condition ensuring all scheduled maintenance is
completed
• Wear seatbelts at all times in operating vehicles
• Obey speed limits and traffic controls at all times
• Comply with state legislation for mobile phone use in vehicles – use hands-free
mobile phone systems and never SMS whilst operating a vehicle. Mobile phones can
only be used for a GPS if they are fitted to a commercially designed cradle.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs
• Never drive in contradiction of the fitness for work standard
• Maintain a valid current driver’s licence
• Never exceed the load carrying capacity of the vehicle
• Ensure loads are properly restrained or contained in accordance with the Hunter
Water approved Load Restraint Guidelines and National Road Transport Commission
– Load Restraint Guide before moving vehicles on site or driving on public roads
• Secure loose items in the cabin of the vehicle and locate any heavy items such as tools
and components to the body or boot of the vehicle, to prevent dangerous projectiles
in the event of a motor vehicle crash
• Never ignore or bypass speed alert, rollover or duress alarms. Alarms are tested
regularly for serviceability

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 Sharps and Needle Sticks

At Hunter Water we:

• Identify and manage all potential sharps and needle stick exposures prior to the task
starting by completing the Take-5, 3 in 1 Risk Assessments, and Work Instructions /
Safe Work Method Statements
• Provide equipment to safely remove sharps and needles safely
• Follow the correct procedure to contain and dispose of sharps and needle sticks
appropriately
• Have an active and effective vaccination program
• Report all sharps and needle stick injuries immediately to supervision
• Provide training to employees to be able to follow the Hunter Water sharps and
needle stick procedure

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Traffic Control

At Hunter Water we:

• Consider traffic control requirements for pre-planned work and resource the work
group appropriately
• Stop before work commences and from a safe position, complete a pre-task risk
assessment using the Take-5 or On Site 3 in 1, which considers the hazards such as
pedestrians and vehicle traffic
• Select and apply the applicable Hunter Water approved Traffic Control Plan (TCP) or
identify the approved TCP exempt scenarios
• Implement worksite protection measures to protect HUNTER WATER WORKERS from
pedestrian and vehicle traffic
• Implement traffic control measures which provide PEDESTRIANS a safe route past or
around the Hunter Water work site
• Implement traffic control measures which provide VEHICLES a safe route past or
around the Hunter Water work site
• Also consider the traffic control measures and worksite hazards from the perspective
of the pedestrian or road user. Where possible conduct a drive / walk through
• Utilise approved specialist traffic control service providers whenever necessary
• When setting out traffic control signs and devices we always place the farthest
controls out first and stand clear of traffic at all times
• Whenever work or traffic conditions change around our worksite, we stop and review
the effectiveness of the TCP and Take-5 or On Site 3 in 1
• Train applicable Hunter Water personnel to:
»» “Traffic Controller” – so these workers can control traffic with a Stop/Slow bat in
accordance with a TCP selected by the competent persons listed below
»» “Implement Traffic Control Plan” – so these workers can select and make minor
adjustments to the approved Hunter Water TCP and position signs and other traffic
control devices at a worksite
»» “Prepare Work Zone Traffic Management Plans” – so these workers can make
major upgrades to the approved Hunter Water TCP’s or develop Traffic
Management Plans and TCP’s based on the NSW Roads and Maritime Services
Traffic Control handbook

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 Underground Overhead Services

At Hunter Water we:

• Assess all of the work area and consider the hazards, risks and controls associated
with underground / overhead services using the On Site 3 in 1 Risk Assessments,
Work Instructions and Safe Work Method Statements
• Train people to recognise and work safely with underground and overhead services
Overhead Services
• LOOK UP AND LIVE – we maintain a safe distance from overhead services to prevent
direct contact or bridging of electrical current;
»» Ordinary persons must comply with the minimum safe clearances (up to and
including 132kva – 3m, between 132kva and 330kva – 6m, and above 330kva – 8m)
»» Accredited Persons (and a trained spotter) must be used whenever we encroach
the above minimum distances
»» Comply with Hunter Water Electrical Safety Manual and the Underground /
Overhead Services procedure
• Overhead power – demarcate overhead using warning devices. Civil and EMM place
the Blue overhead power hazard cones at worksites. Other warning device options to
be considered by Hunter Water and contractors include Goal Posts (visual upright and
overhead markers), coloured flagging, Danger – Overhead Power signage etc
erected on access routes. Tiger Tails may also be used as a visual control
• Follow the emergency procedure whenever mobile equipment contacts overhead power
• Isolate electrical services for electrical work
Underground Services
• Dial Before You Dig – we obtain DBYD reports prior to penetrating any ground surface
• Always take reasonable precautions such as using hand tools, manually potholing and
utilising a spotter to guide the plant operator during excavation
• Services should be located and marked out prior to all excavations (use ground
scanning service locating equipment wherever possible) – Civil refer to the Locating
Underground Services Quick Guide
• Stop and re-assess whenever conditions change or when other services are detected

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• Support underground services which have earth removed, to prevent damage
• In the event of a gas pipe rupture, evacuate the immediate area, turn off all ignition
sources, remove ignition keys, and contact gas service provider. Consider notifying
emergency services for large leaks or in populated areas. Do not attempt to clamp or
crimp the gas pipe – this is a Gemena responsibility only

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 Work In, On or Around Water

At Hunter Water we:

• Conduct and document risk assessments to identify and control hazards associated
with working in, on or around water (e.g. boating, diving, sampling, and dosing), using
the On Site 3 in 1 Risk Assessment, Work Instructions and Safe Work Method Statements
• Establish security, exclusion zones and barriers to prevent falls or unauthorised
access to water hazards at sites under Hunter Water control
• Isolate and de-energise relevant systems when working in, on or around water,
where there is a risk of entrapment, engulfment or drowning
• Provide and maintain water safety and emergency equipment
• Train applicable Hunter Water personnel to work safely on or around water and if
required hold specific licences i.e. power boat licence
• Ensure before any work commences, review and approve contractor Safe Work
Method Statements for the approved work
• Plan and regularly test emergency and rescue arrangements related to incidents
and potential scenarios with working in, on or around water

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