Risk at Woolworth

Site/Access Control

Upon daily arrival at site and prior to commencement of work, Contractors are required to sign the “Visitors Book”, and in some Woolworths Limited sites, will then be issued with a “Visitor” sticker/badge which is to be worn at all times. A “Work Authority Form” (WAF) must be completed and signed by the Site/Duty Manager prior to the commencement of any works and includes the following sections on the form: Contractor details.

Description of requested work.
Contractor Work Record.
Site Orientation.
High Risk Tasks.
PPE.
Contractor‟s Statement.
Site/Duty manager Sign-in.

The “Work Authority Form” (WAF) (formerly known as the Maintenance Authority Form) is to be completed at the location of where the work is to be performed (provided it is safe to do so), prior to commencing the work. If “high risk” work is identified via the “Work Authority Form”, then a “Permit to Work” is also to be completed with the Site/Duty Manager so that appropriate safety precautions are identified for implementation. Typical high risk activities may include, but are not limited to: Hot Work.

Falls.
Electrical Work.
Gas Work.
Impairment of Essential Services.
Concrete Cutting.
Asbestos.

Upon completion of the works for that day the contractor is to notify the Site/Duty Manager. The Site/Duty Manager is to inspect the works undertaken, the parts/materials used, and that plant/equipment/work area have been left in a safe state. No work is complete, until the Site/Duty Manager or nominee has signed off the “Work Authority Form” for that day.

Work Authority Forms and Permit to Work forms are valid for up to 12 hours. If the work extends longer than 12 hours, or requires re-attendance on the next day or another day, a new Work Authority Form and Permit to Work is required. Forms are to be signed off upon completion of work on each day. Final sign-off on the WAF includes the following sections on the form: Job Details.

Cause of Plant/Equipment failure.
Parts/Materials used.
Status of Work.
Contractors Statement.
Site/Duty Managers Final Sign-off section.

Note: Trolley Collection, Cleaning, Hygiene, and Waste Collection contractors, are not required to complete a WAF, provided they: Are providing recurring services, at the same site.  Sign in to the Visitor book. (Trolley Collection and Cleaning Contractors only) Wear a company uniform.  Have a Woolworths Safety Induction ID Card in their possession. Have a SWMS available on request.

6.3 Hazards

A hazard is “anything that has the potential to cause injury, illness or damage to people, plant or the environment”. Hazards that are identified prior to or during the works are to be documented in your Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) and eliminated or controlled prior to commencement of works. Any site specific safety hazards should be brought to the attention of the Site/Duty Manager and any major hazards escalated to your Woolworths Limited representative. Asbestos

Asbestos registers are available onsite and are to be checked by the contractor prior to commencing any work. Specific areas within a store/site that contain asbestos are labelled. Only suitably licensed contractors can perform work on asbestos containing materials. 6.4 Safe Work Method Statements

Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) or Job Safety Analysis (JSA) are: To be completed for all works.  To include a description of the task(s) and how they will be undertaken. To be “Task Specific” and include a Risk Assessment to identify hazards and eliminate/control the risks in relation to the tasks and any hazards that may be unique to that site. To be presented to the Site/Duty Manager prior to the commencement of any works requiring a “Permit to Work” or deemed “high risk”. Made available to the Site/Duty Manager upon request for “non” high risk works.

Where a SWMS or JSA cannot be produced the work will not be permitted to commence. Note: SWMS are also designed to consider the protection from risk of our customers. Where appropriate, consideration should be given to customer safety e.g. signage, barricading, preventing unauthorised entry, etc. 6.5 Restricted Access Areas

Where “Restricted Access” areas are sign posted:
Permission is to be sought from the Site/Duty Manager prior to accessing those areas. Restricted Access areas are to be identified in a SWMS and include; – Why the area is restricted.
– Risk and controls of work taking place in that area.
If a geographically remote location or an isolated area of the site, the SWMS is to include: – Method of communication.
– Assessment of access for emergency situations.

Contractors are to contact the Site/Duty Manager if access is required to any areas under refurbishment. These areas may be under the control of a “Principal Contractor” and therefore entry to the area is to be co-ordinated with the Principal Contractor prior to entry

6.6 Hazardous Chemicals

Hazardous Chemicals must not be introduced onto the site without prior approval of the Site/Duty Manager and/or the Engineering Maintenance & Services (EMS) group. Hazardous Chemicals are to:

Be assessed to determine if an alternate “non” or “less” hazardous chemical can be used to perform the task. Have the relevant and current “Safety Data Sheets” (SDS) available at the work site.

SDS‟s must be current – no more than five years old.
Hazardous Chemicals include but are not limited to: solvents, cleaning agents, flammable liquids and gases. Hazardous Chemicals are to be:
Used without risk to workers, visitors and customers.
Stored securely and where unauthorised people cannot access them. Used and stored away from food.
Free from risk of falling or being knocked over.

Appropriately labelled.

When decanted into containers, have the correct labelling and safety information for the product identified on the container. Used in accordance with the manufacturer‟s instructions and SDS. Removed from store/site following use each day, unless prior agreement with the Site/Duty Manager and securely labelled and stored.

The use and control of Hazardous Chemicals is to be included in a SWMS. Any work that may generate fumes that are hazardous or objectionable must only be performed: In accordance with your SWMS.

Outside of trading hours, where possible.
With correct PPE
Mechanical ventilation where required.
With the approval of the Site/Duty Manager.

Is a gas mask needed?

6.7 Falls

Slips, trips and falls can be a major cause of injuries in the work place. Slip, trip and fall injuries can be prevented by:
Good housekeeping (eg. keep walkways clear at all times).
Reporting hazards.
Wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Good manual task practices.

Housekeeping is everybody’s responsibility. You can prevent these injuries by looking out for spills, keeping the floor clear of obstacles and by wearing the appropriate footwear. If you see something which could potentially cause a slip, trip or fall, don’t walk past it, do something about it, such as: Fix or isolate the problem, and

Inform the Site/Duty Manager of the situation. If the Site/Duty Manager doesn‟t know about it, they can not stop the situation re-occurring.

Any task requiring work to be completed where a person may fall from one level to another, where the risk of injury to themselves or someone else is reasonably likely is to be identified with control strategies documented in a SWMS. A SWMS is to consider, in descending order:

1. Work to be carried out on the ground or on a solid construction, that is; – Capable of supporting all persons and items on it
– Has a barrier around it to prevent a fall
– Even and readily negotiable surface and gradient
– Safe access & egress
2. A fall prevention device
3. A work positioning system
4. A fall arrest system

Any system of work protecting workers from a fall is to include emergency rescue requirements. Where there is risk of anything falling and striking someone below, barricading is to be used for that area

6.8 Hazardous Manual Tasks

Hazardous Manual Tasks are to be identified and eliminated or controlled via a SWMS. Where Hazardous Manual tasks are identified, the contractor is to provide resources to safely complete those tasks. Resources may include additional workers or appropriate lifting equipment. Manual Tasks can be a pain in the neck!

6.9 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal Protective Equipment, is to:
Be used when identified in a SWMS.

Meet relevant Australian Standards and be in good condition. Be provided by the contractor with training on its use in accordance with manufacturer‟s instructions.

The following items of PPE may be required, but not limited to, based on the tasks being completed: High visibility vest/clothing
Gloves
Protective Clothing
Safety glasses
Hearing protection
Safety footwear
Hard Hat
Masks
Signage
Barricades
Sun Protection (e.g. hats, long sleeved shirts, long shorts, sunblock)

High Visibility Clothing

Australian Standard compliant high visibility clothing is to be worn at all times whilst the contractor is working externally or in vehicle traffic area (e.g. on the petrol forecourt, bottle shop drive-thru, car park, garden, etc) or on sites where there is a specific requirement to wear them (e.g. distribution centres). Note: At some Woolworths Limited sites the entire area is designated as requiring high visibility clothing. Check site requirements upon arrival when signing in.

6.10 Safety Signage

You will see a variety of signage on Woolworths Limited sites. Signage is provided for your safety and is to be observed at all times. Signage is colour coded as follows:
Red signs indicate fire equipment (fire extinguishers and hose reels, etc.)

Blue signs indicate that mandatory Personal Protective Equipment is required when entering the area.

Green signs are for emergency equipment (eyewash stations, first aid kits and emergency exits, etc).

Yellow signs are cautionary signs, which may indicate a spill, a wet floor or “sound horn” areas.

Please speak with the Site/Duty Manager if you are not sure what any particular signage means to you.

6.12 Incident Reporting

All incidents, injuries, near misses, involving a contractor undertaking works for Woolworths Limited are to be reported to the Site/Duty Manager immediately. Where an incident occurs, the Contractor is to provide details of the incident as soon as possible, to the Woolworths Limited department that engaged them to perform the works. Contractors are to assist in the completion of the Woolworths Limited Incident/Injury report form and participate in any incident investigation. Following a serious incident, external reporting to a regulatory authority may be required. Contractors will be required to cooperate with Woolworths in completing this.

Non – Disturbance Areas

In some instances the area will need to be preserved for a period of time for investigative purposes. This area is deemed a “Non-Disturbance” area, therefore works may not commence until cleared by the Regulatory Authority.

First Aid

First aid treatment or referral for medical treatment will be arranged where needed, for any contractor who is injured onsite. Many Woolworths Limited sites have first aid equipment, and large sites have workers trained to administer first aid. If you are injured onsite, report it immediately to a member of staff who will contact a Supervisor, First Aid Officer or arrange attendance at a local Medical Centre. This injury is to be reported to the Site/Duty Manager where relevant documentation is to be completed.

6.11 Emergency Procedures

Each site has emergency information that you need to be familiar with. As part of completing the “Work Authority Form” the Site/Duty Manager is to conduct a Site Orientation, which includes: Emergency information, including exits and meeting points.

Essential services equipment.

Each site has nominated wardens specifically trained to assist you in the event of an emergency and any evacuation requirements. During an emergency and/or evacuation you are to follow their instructions.

6.13 Spills

If you cause or come across a spill, prevent its spread and use signage or barricading to prevent injury whilst the „clean up‟ is being organised. Most Stores/Sites have dedicated spill kits available for use. See the Site/Duty Manager if assistance is required following a spill. Any task, where a spill is likely, is to be assessed and included in the SWMS. Contractors are to have spill equipment available if identified in their SWMS. Hazardous chemical spills must be disposed of correctly. See your Site/Duty Manager and review SDS and waste management procedures for correct method.

Stormwater Drains

You cannot use storm water drains to wash down or dispose of waste. All equipment is to be washed in designated areas only. If you suspect environmental contamination contact the Site/Duty Manager immediately. Storm water drains are to be protected in the event of any spill. An option may include but is not limited to bunding. EPA requirements are to be checked if a spill occurs.

6.15 Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking

No person is permitted to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs on a Woolworths Limited site. Any person suspected to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to commence work. Some Woolworths Limited sites provide a designated smoking area. Some medications can affect individual judgement and usually carry warnings on the packaging, e.g. do not operate equipment for 12 hours after taking this medication. Caution must be exercised and any concerns reported to the Site/Duty Manager. Woolworths Limited will review the ongoing contractual relationship where any contractor is suspected to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol

6.16 Plant & Equipment (P&E)
Plant & Equipment used onsite by Contractors is to be:
In good condition.

Stored and operated in accordance with Australian or other relevant standards. Be appropriate for its intended use.
Have up to date maintenance records, including electrical testing. Secured when not in use, to prevent unauthorised access or use. Operated by appropriately trained, licensed and competent persons.

Plant and Equipment Hazards are to be identified and eliminated or controlled in a SWMS. Where a licence is required to operate plant or equipment, the operator is to have a valid licence to operate that plant and equipment. You may be required to show this licence before operating any plant or equipment when used on a Woolworths Limited site.

When servicing or working on Woolworths Limited equipment, the equipment is to be left in a safe manner in preparation for normal operational use. Woolworths Limited plant and equipment is not to be used by Contractors. If you require assistance, then contact the Site/Duty Manager. Any equipment that may cause excessive noise levels is to be used outside of trading hours. If this is not practical discuss the matter with the Site/Duty Manager. A trainee or apprentice is not to be left unsupervised, and is to have received adequate training in performing the task. Important: Our rules are simple:

No Licence – No Driving, No Operating!

6.17 Ladders

Ladders are not a fall protection measure, they are a means of providing access/egress to a work area (Contractors are not to use ladders unless trained in safe work practices in relation to ladders). Only ladders complying with AS/NZ 1892 (or equivalent) are to be used. Where ladders are used in areas near pedestrians, fork lifts, and pallet jacks etc, the SWMS is to specify the measures to be implemented to prevent the ladder being knocked over, e.g.: Safety Cones.

Barricades.
Second person to hold ladder and to restrict access to the area.

Contractors use of ladders:

All ladders must be rated “industrial” with a load rating of at least 120kg. Check ladder for defects before every use. Consider whether you need a second person to assist you or to hold the ladder. A second person may also be needed if you are working in an isolated area. Always have two hands free to ascend and descend.

Ladders should be used on a firm, level, non-slip surface.
Work facing the ladder.
Work within arm‟s reach to avoid falling sideways.
Do not use above something that could further injure you if you fall on to it. Never “walk” the ladder while standing on it.
Do not work above another person.
Do not use in the arc of an opening door, or access area without sealing them off. Do not leave any ladders which are in use unattended.
Only insulated ladders should be used for electrical work.
Do not use any power tool specifically designed to be operated with two hands. Do not use tools requiring a high degree of leverage type force (eg stillsons (used by plumbers), crowbars or pinch bars). 6.18 Electrical Equipment and Leads

Electrical equipment and leads are to be:
Compliant with AS/NZS 3760 In-service Safety Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment. Maintained and in good working condition e.g.
regularly checked for exposed wires, frays, loose plugs/sockets, nicks, cuts, corroded terminals and plugs. Tested and tagged.

Do not place tape over electrical equipment.
Most sites generally provide Residual Current Devices (RCD) and protected General Purpose Outlets (GPO). Always consider personal safety by plugging in before switching the GPO on, and always switch off the GPO prior to removing the plug.

6.19”Danger” & “Out of Service” tags
Equipment labelled with a “Danger” tag or “Out of Service” tag must not be used or have the label removed, except by the repairing contractor once the equipment has been repaired and returned to normal operation. Prior to carrying out repairs on any equipment that has been tagged with either a Danger tag or an Out of Service tag, the contractor is to understand the defect from the person identified on the tag or the Site/Duty Manager.

Upon completion of repair works the Danger tag is then to be attached to the book copy (white copy) of the Work Authority Form by the Site/Duty Manager. When contractors identify defective equipment, it is to be removed from service, an “Out of Service” or “Danger” applied, and the Site/Duty Manager advised. As a minimum the following information needs to be included on the tag: Equipment Description

Name of person attaching tag
Company Name
Date/time
Reason
Contact Number

6.20 Security

Under no circumstances are Contractors permitted to interfere with any Woolworths Limited plant, equipment, facility or amenities, unless they are authorised to undertake repairs or maintenance of such plant and equipment by the Site/Duty Manager. Contractors are to comply with all site access and sign-in instructions and requirements at all times, and obtain and display a “Visitor” sticker.

Contractors must obey all lawful directives of any Woolworths Limited employee at all times. Where it is a contractual requirement for Contractors to wear a company uniform or identification, they are to do so.

6.21 Working Outdoors
Be SunSmart

Working in hot conditions may result in a number of adverse health effects, ranging from discomfort to serious illness. Consideration is to be given to: Drinking water

Drink water regularly before, during and after working in the heat to prevent dehydration. Rest breaks

Where temperatures are excessive and shade not readily available, regular rest breaks are to be considered. Personal Protective Equipment may be required when working outdoors, which may include sunscreen and sun hat, and are to be considered in the SWMS. Tips for working outdoors:

1. Slip on sun protective clothing
2. Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen
3. Slap on a hat
4. Seek shade
5. Slide on some sunglasses
6. Stay hydrated
6.21 Working Outdoors
Be SunSmart

Working in hot conditions may result in a number of adverse health effects, ranging from discomfort to serious illness. Consideration is to be given to: Drinking water

Drink water regularly before, during and after working in the heat to prevent dehydration. Rest breaks

Where temperatures are excessive and shade not readily available, regular rest breaks are to be considered. Personal Protective Equipment may be required when working outdoors, which may include sunscreen and sun hat, and are to be considered in the SWMS. Tips for working outdoors:

1. Slip on sun protective clothing
2. Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen
3. Slap on a hat
4. Seek shade
5. Slide on some sunglasses
6. Stay hydrated
6.22 Construction Zones

It is possible for either a part or whole of a site to be under refurbishment or construction. The area under refurbishment or construction is called a “Construction Zone” and may typically be hoarded, cordoned or barricaded off, and be under the control of a “Principal Contractor”. It is possible for parts of the site not under construction or refurbishment to continue to trade as per normal.

When arriving at a site under refurbishment or construction the Site/Duty Manager will advise you of this. It is important for you to advise the Principal Contractor of the purpose of your visit to check if your work will impact or be impacted by other contractors working onsite, and of any impairment and specific PPE requirements. If required to enter the “Construction Zone”, the Woolworths Limited Construction Department have mandated a minimum PPE requirement of all contractors, of: Safety Hi-Viz Vest.

Enclosed Footwear.
Gloves.
Safety Eyewear.
Additional PPE may be required depending upon state requirements and current work activities in the Construction Zone.

If required to enter a Construction Zone out of hours or whilst the Principal Contractor is not onsite, use the emergency contact number posted at the entrance of the Construction Zone. Always check first with the Principle
Contractor prior to commencing your works. 6.23 Traffic Management Traffic Management requirements must be observed at all times, including: All speed limits, traffic flows and other specific traffic management rules. Vehicles are to be immobilised prior to loading or unloading. Vehicle parking is permissible only in designated parking areas, parking in other areas will not be tolerated. Sound the vehicle’s horn when approaching blind situations. When working in traffic thoroughfares, PPE such as appropriate footwear and high vis vests are to be worn.

Pedestrian Movement

When moving around the site as a pedestrian, walk within all designated pedestrian zones, unless required otherwise by your work activity. Traffic and pedestrian considerations, particularly including bulky or dangerous equipment, or moving supplies through public areas, are to be documented in the SWMS with appropriate controls implemented. Use of Barricading is to be considered at sites with high levels of traffic flow. When preparing SWMS, special attention to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow is to be taken into account.

6.24 Contractor’s Visitors and Children
When engaged as a contractor, the contractor‟s children and pets are not permitted onsite with the contractor whilst carrying out works.

6.25 Facilities
Kitchens and Lunchrooms
Where provided, a lunchroom including tea and coffee facilities are available to all staff and Contractors.

Toilets
Toilet facilities are available at most stores/sites for Contractors. All provided facilities are to be kept clean and tidy and any issues reported to the Site/Duty Manager

6.26 Centre Management
The requirements for working on Woolworths Limited sites are set out throughout this document. Where works are to be conducted outside of the Woolworths Limited tenancy, or will impact areas outside of the control of Woolworths Limited then Centre Management are to be consulted prior to the commencement of works.

Any work that may impact a centre‟s infrastructure (eg. air conditioning, fire & sprinkler or smoke detection systems, roof, plumbing, etc) are only to be undertaken with the prior permission of Centre Management. Contractors may also be required to undertake Centre Management‟s induction process and adhere to their specific Health & Safety requirements.

6.27 Housekeeping and Storage
Work areas are to be kept clean and orderly. Contractor‟s waste and scrap is to be removed at least once per day. If the work activity generates a large amount of waste, then the site is to be cleaned and cleared more frequently. Contractors are responsible for the removal of waste created as a result of their works. Only with the permission of the Site/Duty Manager may they use the onsite waste facilities to dispose of that waste. With the permission of the Site/Duty Manager, recyclable materials may be disposed of in the designated area.

Dangerous goods and Hazardous chemicals must not be disposed of in general use waste bins, these wastes are to be removed from site by the contractor and disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements. Proof of disposal methods and/or certificates may be requested. Contractor work areas will be subject to the regular housekeeping safety inspections. Results may be used to determine the future allocation of contracts. A clean site is the first

step to a safe site.
6.28 Noise
Many sites are surrounded by residential areas. For the sake of these communities and other workers, noise is to be kept to a minimum. Internal noise is governed by OH&S regulations and should not exceed 140dB at any time, or 85dB over an eight hour period.

Where noise is likely to be excessive, alternative strategies are to be considered and documented in the SWMS. Considerations may include staggering the works or using alternative methods. External/environmental noise is governed by the EPA or the local council and is usually measured at the boundary line. Note: Some sites have noise curfews, please check with the Site/Duty Manager.

6.29 Bullying and Harassment
Woolworths Limited is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, bullying and harassment. You have a responsibility to behave in a manner that treats others with dignity and respect. This includes the workplace and at Company functions. Woolworths Limited also opposes discriminatory, bullying or harassing behaviours such as but not limited to: Gestures.

Language.
The display of offensive electronic or written material.
Public speeches, in the workplace that unreasonably offends, humiliates or intimidates such as: – Sexual harassment involving inappropriate jokes,

– Suggestive comments or the display of offensive material whether it be in print, computer or text message, or any unwelcome behaviour of a sexual nature; – Physical molestation including physical or sexual assault, indecent exposure, inappropriate or unwelcome touching and requests for sexual favours; – Bullying behaviour such as verbal and physical abuse or threats, – Foul and abusive language or intimidation;

Any Contractor that commits or threatens to commit a bullying or harassing act towards another person or property at work, or a work related event, will be removed from site and the future of the contract reviewed, exclusive of any other civil remedy or criminal penalty that may be pursued if appropriate.

6.30 Consequences for Violation

The following points outline consequences that will apply to the Contractor for non-compliance, and will be applied upon assessment of the severity and frequency of the non compliance amongst other considerations.

The consequences are listed in order of severity: 1. The issuing of a Warning Notice for a violation to individual(s) and/or the contracting company(s). Warnings are verbal or written notices placing an individual(s) and/ or the contracting company(s) on notice for a violation. Two warnings given in a three month period may result in the automatic escalation of consequences to a suspension or breach.

2. Suspended from attending a nominated Woolworths Limited site(s) for a defined period of time. Suspension is the temporary measure of not allowing an individual(s) and/or contracting company(s) the right to conduct work at a Woolworths Limited site, or the non-issuing of future jobs to an individual(s) and/or contracting company(s) for a defined period of time.

3. Excluded from attending a nominated Woolworths Limited site(s) indefinitely. Exclusion is the permanent measure of not allowing an individual(s) and/or contracting company(s) the right to conduct work at a Woolworths Limited site(s), or the non issuing of future jobs to an individual and/or contracting company(s) for the life of the contract.

4. Contract termination with the possibility of future restrictions on tendering work for Woolworths Limited.