Service OHS Support

Walk through the service with staff who use the spaces and equipment. Tick the items considered and record anything requiring action.

• Floors and paths are even, clear and in good condition.
• Spills and wet areas can be managed promptly.
• Entrances, exits and emergency routes are unobstructed.
• Indoor and outdoor work areas have suitable lighting.
• Furniture and equipment are stable and maintained.
• Frequently used items are easy for staff to access.
• Heavy or awkward items are not stored too high or too low.
• Trolleys or other aids are available where appropriate.
• Staff can work with children without prolonged awkward postures.
• Electrical leads and equipment do not create hazards.
• Chemicals are labelled, stored safely and have current safety data sheets.
• Staff facilities and work areas are suitable and accessible.
• After-hours and personal-security arrangements are understood.
• Staff know how to report hazards, injuries and near misses.
• Previously identified actions have been completed and reviewed.
• Staff have been asked about concerns or improvement ideas.

Use these questions when a task involves lifting, lowering, carrying, pushing, pulling, holding, restraining, repeated movement, sustained posture or high force.

1. What is the task and when is it completed?
2. Who completes it, how often and for how long?
3. Does it involve bending, twisting, reaching, kneeling, squatting or working at child height?
4. Does it involve repeated movements, sustained posture, high force or an unstable load?
5. Have staff experienced discomfort, fatigue, pain, injury or a near miss?
6. Can the task or unnecessary handling be eliminated?
7. Can the item be made lighter, smaller, more stable or easier to grip?
8. Can storage, furniture, room layout or delivery location be changed?
9. Can a trolley, mechanical aid or height-adjustable item be used?
10. Can the work be reorganised to reduce repetition or sustained awkward posture?
11. Have the staff who perform the task been consulted about the proposed change?
12. When will the change be reviewed to confirm that it works?

• Frequently used items are stored between approximately knee and shoulder height where practicable.
• Heavier items are not stored overhead or at floor level where avoidable.
• Shelves, cupboards and storage units are stable and suitable.
• Storage areas do not obstruct paths, exits or access to emergency equipment.
• Items do not project from shelving or create a striking hazard.
• Staff can see and reach items without climbing on furniture.
• Suitable steps or access equipment are available where required.
• Mobile equipment moves freely and has functioning wheels or brakes.
• Equipment is inspected and maintained in accordance with its instructions.
• Damaged or unsafe equipment is removed from use and reported.
• Deliveries can be placed close to their intended storage location.
• Staff have been consulted about storage problems and possible changes.

• Floors, paths, ramps, steps and outdoor surfaces are in good condition.
• Wet or slippery areas can be identified and managed quickly.
• Walkways are free from boxes, cords, bags, toys and stored equipment.
• Loose mats or floor coverings do not create a trip hazard.
• Changes in floor level are visible and appropriately managed.
• Entrances and outdoor walkways are considered during wet weather.
• Work areas, entrances, car parks and paths have suitable lighting.
• Handrails and steps are secure and maintained.
• Staff do not need to carry unstable loads that obstruct their view.
• Suitable access equipment is used instead of chairs or furniture.
• Staff know how to report damaged surfaces and maintenance needs.
• Previous slips, trips and near misses have been reviewed for recurring causes.

Use this simple record when discussing a hazard, reviewing a task or considering a change that may affect staff health and safety.

This planner does not replace the applicable NERPSA hazard, injury, illness, incident or near-miss reporting process.