Approved Code of Practice for the Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods (28/06/2006) (Cth)
Approved Code of Practice for the Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods
I, KEVIN JAMES ANDREWS, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, approve the following Code of Practice under subsection 70(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) Act 1991.
Dated 28th June 2006
KEVIN ANDREWS
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
Name of Code of Practice
This instrument is the Approved Code of Practice for the Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods.
2 Application
Pursuant to paragraph 70(4)(a) of the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) Act 1991, this Code of Practice is to apply generally.
3 Commencement
This Code of Practice commences the day after it is registered.
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Table of Contents
Purpose
What is an approved code of practice?
Authority
Who this code applies to
How this code applies
Relationship of this code to other legislation
Definitions
1. Introduction
What are dangerous goods?
Dangerous goods v hazardous substances
Dangerous goods covered
2. Duties of manufacturers, importers and suppliers of dangerous goods
Duties of manufacturers and importers
Determination that a substance is a dangerous good
Duty to provide safety information
Duty to contain, package and label dangerous goods
Duties of Suppliers
Duty to contain, package and label dangerous goods
Duty in filling cylinders or containers with dangerous goods
Duty to provide safety information
Duties of suppliers or installers of plant or structures
3. Duties of Employers
Risk management
Step 1 - Hazard identification
Collecting information
Useful sources
Reviewing the information
Step 2 - Risk Assessment
Conducting a risk assessment
Reviewing and revising risk assessments
Record of the assessment
Step 3 - Control the risk
Step 4 – Review
4. Risk control strategies
Strategy 1 - Eliminate the hazard from the workplace
Strategy 2 - Substitute or modify the hazard
Strategy 3 - Isolate the hazard
Strategy 4 - Use engineering methods to control the hazard at its source
Strategy 5 - Use administrative controls
Strategy 6 - Introduce Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Strategy 7 - Control risk at the design stage
Implementation of risk control strategies
5. Specific risk control duties
Physical separation of dangerous goods from people, protected places, and other property
Separation of dangerous goods from incompatible substances
Keeping dangerous goods stable
Impact protection – structures and plant
Impact protection - containers for bulk dangerous goods
Spills and containment of dangerous goods
Transfer of dangerous goods
Fire protection
The fire protection system
Fire fighting equipment
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency procedures
Emergency plans
Elimination of ignition sources in hazardous areas
Safety Equipment
Control of hazardous atmosphere
Lighting
Security
Disposal etc of plant, equipment and containers
6. Employer’s duties - provision of information
Provision of information for health and safety procedures
Material Safety Data Sheets
Risk assessment
Information for plant and structures
Register of manifest quantities of dangerous goods for emergency purposes
Site Plan
7. Notification of storage and handling of dangerous goods
8. Marking and identification of containers
Marking of containers — dangerous goods received by employer
Marking of containers at the workplace
Containers for short-term storage of dangerous goods not required to be marked
Placards
Calculating quantities of dangerous goods.
Types of placards
Other placards – quantity of packaged dangerous goods or combustible liquids exceeds placarding quantity
Accuracy of placards
9. Duties to employees
Consultation
Induction, information, training and supervision
Induction
Training
Supervision
Visitors
Register of information about dangerous goods
10. Duties of an employer who builds, owns or operates a pipeline
11. Duties of employees
Appendixes
Appendix 1 Schedule 7 of the Regulations
Appendix 2 Schedule 8 - Placard requirements
Appendix 3 Standards and Codes
Purpose
The purpose of this Approved Code of Practice (code of practice) is to provide practical guidance on the storage and handling of dangerous goods for persons covered by the OHS (CE) Act.
What is an approved code of practice?
An approved code of practice is a source of expert practical information about safe work practices in specific circumstances. Detailed obligations are contained in the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) (National Standards) Regulations 1994 (the regulations). Where there are any inconsistencies between the code and the regulations, the regulations will apply.
Authority
The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations approved this code under section 70 of the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) Act 1991 (the OHS (CE) Act). This code came into effect the day after it was registered with the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments.
Who this code applies to
This code applies to employers and employees covered by the OHS(CE) Act, and manufacturers and suppliers that provide dangerous goods that are stored or handled in workplaces within the Commonwealth jurisdiction.
How this code applies
Sub-section 16(1) of the OHS(CE) Act states that:
An employer must take all reasonably practicable steps to protect the health and safety at work of the employer's employees.
This code:
provides practical guidance to people with a duty of care under the OHS(CE) Act;
should be followed unless there is another means of achieving the same or better standards of health and safety; and
is admissible as evidence in proceedings under the OHS(CE) Act and supporting regulations.
This code may be cited by:
an investigator; and/or
a health and safety representative in a provisional improvement notice.
Relationship of this code to other legislation
Under the current Commonwealth OHS framework, employers have a general duty of care to protect the health and safety of their employees. Employers must have an understanding of their general obligations under the OHS(CE) Act and all relevant regulations.
Where a particular obligation is not imposed in Part 8 of the OHS (NS) regulations, an employer must continue to implement procedures that are imposed under other parts of the Commonwealth OHS legislation. An example of this may pertain to the licensing requirements of plant, which are used with dangerous goods.
Further more, Part 4 of the regulations outlines the general requirements of plant safety and licensing requirements. Employers must continue to implement the requirements under other relevant parts of the OHS(NS) regulations as well as the requirements under Part 8.
Much of the terminologies used to describe dangerous goods are defined in the Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADG Code). The ADG Code provides information to people involved with dangerous goods. The information is used to:
correctly handle and store dangerous goods;
segregate incompatible goods; and
provide emergency services with vital information on hazard, fire fighting and personal protective equipment.
The ADG Code classifies dangerous goods according to the predominant type of risk involved. There are 9 classes of dangerous goods and these classes can be further subdivided to describe the risk more accurately. In addition to the predominant risk, dangerous goods can have other risks associated with them. The ADG Code refers to these risks as subsidiary risks.
The Australian Dangerous Goods Code, sixth edition (ADG Code 6th Ed), is administered by the Department of Transport and Regional Services and is available for purchase from CanPrint in paperback and on CD - covered by this code of practice will also find most of the information needed to classify dangerous goods, identify packaging groups, and correctly label dangerous goods. Notes contained within the regulations may identify references to items that can be found in the ADG code.
Definitions
The interpretations contained in the following legislation apply in this Approved Code of Practice for the Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods in Commonwealth employment:
a) OHS(CE) Act;
b) The OHS(NS) Regulations – Part 8 – The Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods; and
c) The ADG Code provides information on the classification of dangerous goods, identification of packaging groups, and correctly labelling dangerous goods. A note in the regulations may identify references to items that can be found in the ADG code.
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1. Introduction
1.1 Part 8 of the Occupational Health and Safety (Commonwealth Employment) (National Standards) Regulations 1994 (the regulations) outlines the specific duties of manufacturers, suppliers, employers, and operators of pipelines in relation to the manufacture, supply, storage and handling of dangerous goods in the workplace.
1.2 The regulations are designed to ensure that workplaces, which store and handle significant amounts of dangerous goods, assess and manage all identified risks and hazards by controlling them through work practices such as training, correct labelling and implementing effective emergency plans and procedures.
1.3 This approved code of practice should be read in conjunction with the regulations.
What are dangerous goods?
1.4 Dangerous goods are those substances that may be hazardous to people, property or the environment, and may cause accidents with disastrous consequences. Dangerous goods may be corrosive, flammable, explosive, oxidising or reactive with water.
1.5 Regulation 8.04(3) defines dangerous goods as goods that:
(a) are named in column 2 of Appendix 2 to the ADG Code; or
(b) meet the criteria in Chapter 2 of the ADG Code; or
(c) are determined by a relevant Competent Authority to be dangerous goods; or
(d) are C1 combustible liquids; or
(e) are C2 combustible liquids, if stored and handled with fire risk dangerous
goods (within the meaning of sub regulation (4)); or
(f) are goods too dangerous to be transported.
Dangerous goods v hazardous substances
1.6 In many cases, dangerous goods are confused with hazardous substances. Dangerous goods are classified according to their immediate physical or chemical hazards, such as fire, explosion, corrosion and toxicity that may affect life, health, property or the environment. Hazardous substances are classified only based on immediate or long-term health effects.
1.7 Dangerous goods and hazardous substances are covered by separate parts of the regulations to control the different risks involved. Part 6 of the regulations covers hazardous substances whilst Part 8 covers dangerous goods.
1.8 Many hazardous substances are also classified as dangerous goods, therefore, employers are required to comply with both sets of regulations.
Dangerous goods covered
1.9 Regulation 8.05 outlines the different classes of dangerous goods. Table 1 below summarises the dangerous goods covered by the regulations and therefore, this code.
Table 1 Classes of dangerous goods
| Classes of Goods | Description | Reference |
| Dangerous goods: Class 2 Class 2.1 Class 2.2 Class 2.3 Class 3 Class 4 Class 4.1 Class 4.2 Class 4.3 Class 5 Class 5.1 Class 5.2 Class 6 Class 6.1 Class 8 Class 9 | Gases Flammable gas Non-flammable, non-toxic gases Toxic gases Flammable liquids Flammable solids, etc. Flammable solids, self-reactive, desensitised Substances liable to spontaneous combustion Substances in contact with water emit flammable gases Oxidizing substances; organic peroxides Oxidizing substances Organics peroxides Toxic and infectious substances Toxic substances Corrosive substances Miscellaneous substances and articles | ADG Code |
| Goods too dangerous to be transported | Goods listed in Appendix 5 of the ADG Code and goods determined to be so by the Authority | ADG Code |
| Combustible Liquid: C1 C2 | Any liquid other than a flammable liquid that has a flashpoint, and that has a fire point less than its boiling point. Combustible Liquid with a flashpoint > 60.5°C and ≤ 150°C Combustible Liquid with flashpoint > 150°C | AS 1940 – The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids |
1.10 Three classes of goods are not covered by this part of the regulations. These classes include:
· Classes 1 (explosives);
· Class 6.2 (infectious substances);
· Class 7 (radioactive substances); and
· Asbestos.
1.11 Other Commonwealth, State or Territory legislation may apply in relation to these goods.
1.12 Regulation 8.02(2) specifies other dangerous goods that are not covered by this part of the regulations and therefore, this code:
Dangerous goods in transit.
· Dangerous goods are in transit if they are supplied to a workplace in a container that is not opened or are used at the workplace and the goods will be kept for no more than five (5) consecutive days.
Dangerous goods in a fuel system or equipment or that are essential to the operation of a fuel system or equipment.
· batteries connected to and are essential for the operation of mobile plant, equipment, vehicles, boats, aircraft and appliances;
· fuel in fuel tanks and systems connected to and are essential for the operation of mobile plant, equipment, vehicles, boats, aircraft and appliances; and
· dangerous goods contained in portable firefighting or medical equipment deployed for use at the premises.
1.13 Even though these goods are not specifically covered under Part 8, the OHS (CE) Act general duty of care still applies.
1.14 It is a requirement that the amount and location of goods in transit are included on the manifest register and site plan and they are properly packaged and labelled.
2. Duties of manufacturers, importers and suppliers of dangerous goods
2.1 Division 8.2 of the regulations outlines duties for those persons who manufacture, import or supply dangerous goods to Commonwealth workplaces.
2.2 Under the OHS(CE) Act, where a person who is not the manufacturer, imports goods, but does not have a place of business in Australia at the time the goods are imported, they are deemed to be the manufacturer.
2.3 The importer of dangerous goods is subject to complying with all manufacturers duties in the regulations.
Duties of manufacturers and importers
2.4 Subdivision 8.2.1 outlines the duties of manufacturers of dangerous goods including, but not limited to:
· determining substances as dangerous goods; and
· providing safety information.
Determination that a substance is a dangerous good
2.5 Regulation 8.09 specifies that where a manufacturer of dangerous goods is aware that employees at work will use a substance, the manufacturer be required to determine whether that substance is a dangerous good or not.
2.6 To make a determination, if the goods are specifically listed, the manufacturer should refer to chapter 2 of the ADG code. If the goods are not listed, the determination should be made according to the criteria in the ADG code.
2.7 The manufacturer is required to make this determination as soon as possible prior to the goods being manufactured. The determination of a dangerous good must be in writing and kept for the whole period the goods are manufactured.
2.8 The same process applies in relation to combustible and flammable liquids, however, AS 1940-2004 is the reference source rather than the ADG Code.
Duty to provide safety information
2.9 Regulation 8.10(1) Prior to, or at the time of delivery, a manufacturer must prepare and provide a material safety data sheet (MSDS) and other safety information to suppliers and employers where it is expected that employees will be using the supplied dangerous goods. This part does not apply to those manufacturers who supply C1 or C2 combustible liquids.
2.10 If requested, the manufacturer must provide any relevant and available information on the dangerous goods that is not contained in the MSDS.
Content of MSDS
2.11 An MSDS provides information to a person to assist with the safe storage and handling of dangerous goods. It also provides information to persons required to enter a workplace following an accident, with the exact properties of the dangerous goods used at that workplace.
2.12 An MSDS must include the name of every ingredient of the dangerous goods unless the identity of an ingredient is commercially confidential. Ingredients include diluents, solvents, wetting agents, stabilisers, inhibitors, and adulterants.
2.14 Regulation 8.10(7) allows a manufacturer to use the generic name of the ingredient if naming the goods would cause commercial disadvantage. This only applies if the ingredient is not a dangerous good and it does not have a known flow on effect.
2.15 Instead of naming the ingredient, the manufacturer may include a statement in the MSDS that the ingredient has been determined not to be a dangerous good. However, if there is a medical emergency involving the goods listed on the MSDS the manufacturer must disclose the name of the ingredient.
Review of MSDS
2.16 Regulation 8.10(5) says an MSDS must be accurate, kept up to date, and contain enough information to provide comprehensive advice on the dangerous goods. An MSDS should be reviewed at least every five (5) years, and it should be updated immediately when new information becomes available.
Guidance on MSDS
2.17 Regulation 8.10(2) clarifies that all MSDS must comply with the new National Code of Practice for the Preparation of Material Safety Data Sheets NOHSC: 2011 (2003) after 24 April 2006.
2.18 Other safety information may include, but is not limited to:
· summary reports produced under the Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989 (Commonwealth); and
· where it is available, other users may have specific information relating to the conditions for safe use, compatibility and chemical stability under particular conditions.
Duty to contain, package and label dangerous goods
2.19 Regulation 8.11(1) specifies that manufacturers of dangerous goods must contain, package, and label goods in accordance with the ADG Code before supplying the goods for use.
2.20 The manufacturer must ensure all information important to protect the health and safety of employees is included on the label.
Duties of Suppliers
2.21 Subdivision 8.2.2 outlines the duties of suppliers of dangerous goods including but not limited to:
· containing the goods;
· packaging and labelling the goods;
· filling gas cylinders; and
· providing safety information.
Duty to contain, package and label dangerous goods
2.22 Regulation 8.11(2) specifies that any person, who supplies dangerous goods, must ensure the goods have been contained, packaged and labelled in accordance with the ADG Code before supplying the goods for use.
2.23 Regulation 8.11(2) does not apply in cases where retailers receive packaged dangerous goods in a container provided by the purchaser. However, retailers must ensure that the container:
· will not react with the dangerous goods;
· was constructed to contain the dangerous goods;
· is not damaged;
· is clearly marked with the name of the dangerous goods; and
· cannot be mistaken for containing foodstuffs.
Duty in filling cylinders or containers with dangerous goods
2.24 Regulation 8.11(5) requires that when a person fills a cylinder, disposable container or aerosol container with Class 2 dangerous goods, such as gas, the cylinder or container must comply with paragraph 3.8.2 and Appendix 2 of the ADG Code.
2.25 The cylinder or container must be labelled and packaged in accordance with the ADG Code and provide all necessary information to protect the health and safety of persons using the cylinder or container.
Filling the cylinder
2.26 Cylinders are:
· generally designed to be used with a specific gas or group of gases;
· distinctively painted or marked to identify their contents; and
· have fittings that are only suitable for a particular gas.
2.27 Before filling the cylinder, an inspection of the valves, fittings, and protective devices such as neck rings and shrouds should be checked to ensure good working order. The use of adaptors are discouraged unless approved adaptors have been authorised by the original supplier of the gas or the manufacturer of the cylinder.
2.28 Cylinders must be marked appropriately to indicate they have been tested to withstand design pressures and display the period that the test is valid, (which can be up to 10 years). An imported gas cylinder should only be filled if it complies with AS 2030.1-1999 Cylinders for compressed gases.
2.29 A cylinder should not be filled if it:
· is not designed to be filled with gas;
· shows evidence of excessive corrosion or other damage
· shows any indication of leakage ; and
· is outside its current test date.
Duty to provide safety information
2.30 Regulation 8.12 requires suppliers to provide an MSDS the first time dangerous goods are supplied to a workplace. The supplier must also provide a copy of the current MSDS at any time the employer requests one.
2.31 This does not apply to a person who is a retailer and supplies packaged dangerous goods that are intended for retail display and sale.
2.32 Regulation 8.13 states that when requested, the supplier must provide any further information that is not contained in the MSDS, if it is relevant to the safe storage and handling of the goods.
Duties of suppliers or installers of plant or structures
2.33 Regulation 8.14 requires a person, who installs or supplies structures or plant at a workplace, which is expected to be used by employees, to ensure the plant or structure:
· is suitable for use with the dangerous goods it is intended to contain;
· conforms with the original design of the plant or structure without modifications; and
· is prevented from unintentional movement.
2.34 The supplier or installer must provide the employer with all information relating to:
· the installation, testing, commissioning, use, inspection, maintenance, dismantling and disposal of the plant or structure;
· explaining how the plant or structure should be operated and maintained; and
· stating any conditions or specifications that should be complied with to ensure the safety and health of employees when the plant or structure is in operation.
Initial design stage
2.35 The initial design of a plant or structure is an important stage to control the hazards and risks associated with storing and handling dangerous goods. If an employer engages a person to design plant for use by employees at work, the employer must ensure that the person is provided with relevant information about matters relating to the plant that may affect health and safety.
2.36 Where a structure or plant has been designed and built for use with a specific dangerous good, care should be taken if the plant is to be used with different goods. The employer should re-assess whether the plant is suitable for use with that good.
2.37 It may be necessary to put in place additional safeguards, such as barriers to guard against the plant or structure being damaged. If different risks are present, any decision to use the plant will need to take into account whether these risks can be controlled.
2.38 Part 4 of the regulations provides further guidance on the supply, installation and maintenance of plant and structures.
3. Duties of Employers
3.1 Division 8.3 outlines the duties of employers in relation to the storage and handling of dangerous goods.
3.2 This part of the code is designed to assist employers to meet the requirements of the regulations. Duties of employers include:
· control risks and hazards through a risk management process;
· provide safety information;
· provide induction and training sessions;
· supervise employees;
· ensuring placards are positioned within the workplace correctly;
· prepare a register of emergency procedures where there are large quantities of dangerous goods;
· provide notification as required to Comcare in relation to dangerous goods; and
· consult with employees.
Risk management
3.3 The SRCC recommends risk management as the preferable method for controlling risks. Risk management may be defined as:
· a method of assessing and controlling risks associated with an activity, function or process;
· the systematic application of organisational resources to the tasks of identifying, analysing, assessing, controlling and monitoring exposures to risk and adverse effects of such risks;
· the employer’s responsibility and should be conducted in consultation with employees and/or their representatives;
· an examination of what could harm a person which allows employers and employees to assess what precautions should be taken to prevent harm at work. In making such assessments employers and employees may:
- compare its control to other similar working environments,
- consult with industry associations and/or involved unions,
- consult with specialists, and
- consult with Comcare.
· a system which allows employers flexibility to devise tailor-made solutions to control risks in their workplace;
· a process which need not be awkward or complicated ; and
· an opportunity which allows all persons in the workplace to be consulted and possibly agree on what rules should apply.
3.4 Incidents from the storage and handling of dangerous goods can be prevented and managed by observing the following principles of risk management:
· hazard identification (Subdivision 8.3.1);
· risk assessment (Subdivision 8.3.1); and
· risk control (Subdivision 8.3.2).
Step 1 - Hazard identification
3.5 Regulation 8.15 requires an employer to identify any hazard associated with the storage or handling of dangerous goods foreseeable..
3.6 Hazard identification should highlight activities in the workplace that may affect persons involved with storing and handling dangerous goods.
3.7 In order to identify the hazards associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods the employer should:
· collect information on potential hazards using sources such as MSDS, consult with employees, suppliers or other persons with expertise;
· conduct regular inspections of the workplace and the methods of storage and handling;
· examine plans of the workplace including buildings, water, gas, electricity, compressed air, steam, drains, fire services, chemical pipelines, roads, access ways and engineering specifications of relevant plant; and
· discuss risks with the employers of nearby workplaces and the emergency services authority.
3.8 Employers must keep a written record of each hazard identified.
Collecting information
3.9 Hazard identification for structures, plant, equipment, systems of work and activities used in the storage and handling of dangerous goods involves collecting information on:
· physical components or characteristics that have the potential to harm the safety and health of a person and/or cause damage to property and the environment, either in their own right or in conjunction with the dangerous goods;
· systems of work, including normal operating procedures and unusual operating conditions which could give rise to harm or damage; and
· activities that may pose a threat to the dangerous goods.
3.10 When identifying the hazards, the employer should be aware of:
· the chemical and physical reactions of dangerous goods;
· possible reactions between dangerous goods and any plant, structures or other substances;
· manufacturing, transfer or transport processes at the workplace involving dangerous goods;
· plant and other structures used in the storage or handling of dangerous goods
· any information about the hazardous properties;
· the kind and characteristics of incidents which may be associated with dangerous goods;
· the location of dangerous goods; and
· environmental factors that may have an effect on the goods.
Useful sources
3.11 A number of important sources that may assist employers to identify hazards include safety information, inherent hazards, incidents and external factors.
Safety information
3.12 Safety information such as MSDS can provide the employer with information on the chemical and physical properties for use and safe handling requirements for the dangerous goods.
3.13 The chemical and physical properties of the dangerous goods that may represent or contribute to hazards in the particular storage and handling situation include:
· physical state;
· flashpoint, fire point and explosive limits;
· viscosity;
· density;
· particle size;
· vapour pressure;
· solubility and pH;
· reactivity;
· boiling and/or freezing point or range;
· electrical and/or heat conductivity; and
· the nature and concentration of combustible products.
Inherent hazards
3.14 The secondary dangerous goods hazards such as Subsidiary Risks are equally important as the primary dangerous goods classification. The inherent hazards of dangerous goods may include:
· fire;
· explosion; and
· toxic effects such as inhalation, ingestion, absorption through the skin or eyes, or corrosive action.
Incidents
3.15 Records or historical data related to injuries and illness may prove to be valuable sources of information.
3.16 Both internal and external incidents including dangerous occurrences and near misses that have occurred can provide useful information about the hazards or risks associated with dangerous goods.
External factors
3.17 Hazards may arise from sources outside the workplace.
3.18 Other hazards surrounding the workplace which are not related to dangerous goods may have the capacity to directly impact on the goods in a hazardous way. Fire risks are increased from areas where grass has been left to over grow or combustible items such as timber or cardboard boxes have been stored or dumped.
3.19 The proximity of railway lines, pipelines, mobile phone repeater towers, and protected places such as schools and public buildings are required to be taken into consideration when assessing the hazards associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods at a workplace.
Other sources
3.20 Other activities which are not directly related to the storage and handling of dangerous goods may generate potential hazards within the workplace. This may require the consideration of any adjacent storage areas that contain dangerous goods or the proximity of other work areas when identifying hazards.
3.21 Other sources of information which may provide the employer with information on the hazards and risks associated with dangerous goods include:
· package markings and labels;
· manufacturers or suppliers of dangerous goods or equipment;
· dangerous goods authorities;
· National Industrial Chemical Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) summary reports;[1]
[1] NICNAS summary reports are produced under the Commonwealth Industrial Chemical (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989
· sources listed in the National Code of Practice for the Preparation of Material Safety Data Sheets NOHSC: 2011 (2003);
· fire services;
· Office of the Australian Safety and Compensation Council (OASCC) (formerly NOHSC);
· trade union, employer and/or industry associations; and
· occupational health and safety consultants.
Reviewing the information
3.22 Having collected information about the dangerous goods and their potential hazards, the next step is to consider all processes and activities at the workplace, in relation to the storage and handling of dangerous goods.
3.23 All processes should be examined in detail. The employer should consider not only the official process but also how the procedures are actually performed and any short cuts that may occur. It is valuable to conduct a periodic walk through inspection of the workplace to observe actual practices relating to the storage and handling of dangerous goods.
Step 2 - Risk Assessment
3.24 A risk assessment determines whether there is a risk of injury to people or damage to the property from the storage and handling of dangerous goods. The purpose of a risk assessment is to:
· identify those risks that are required to be controlled;
· assist in making decisions regarding the priority in which risks need to be controlled; and
· develop a schedule for controlling all risks as soon as practicable.
3.25 Regulation 8.16(1) requires that every hazard is identified under Regulation 8.15; the employer must assess all risks associated with each hazard associated with dangerous goods.
Conducting a risk assessment
3.26 The employer should decide if there is sufficient expertise within the workplace to conduct the risk assessment or whether external advice is required. This decision will depend on the skills and experience available to undertake the risk assessment. The expertise required will depend on the classes of dangerous goods involved and the complexity of processes employed in the particular workplace.
3.27 At workplaces where complex dangerous goods processes are involved, it may be more effective to use a more highly structured process such as Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOP) or Hazard Analysis (HAZAN) to guide the hazard identification and risk assessment process. In some situations, it may be necessary to undertake a quantitative risk analysis (QRA) to assist in understanding the risks involved.
Reviewing and revising risk assessments
3.28 Regulation 8.16(3) requires that a review of each risk assessment should occur at least once every 5 years. A review must be carried out prior to the introduction of changes such as when:
· dangerous goods not normally kept at a workplace are introduced;
· dangerous goods are stored and handled in different areas since the last assessment was completed;
· new or improved control measures have become more practicable or safer; or
· plant or structures are modified.
Record of the assessment
3.29 Regulation 8.16(4) requires the employer to keep a written record of each risk assessment. The employer must keep the records up-to-date and those records must be made available to:
· Comcare on request;
· employees which may be affected by any risk contained in the assessment; and
· all health and safety representatives.
3.30 The amount of detail required to be recorded will vary depending on the nature and severity of the risks identified. If a risk does not need to be controlled, it may not be necessary to maintain an extensive record of the risk.
3.31 Generally, risk assessment records should include the:
· name of the workplace;
· names of assessors and their appointments;
· date the assessment was conducted;
· areas within the workplace that were assessed;
· dangerous goods for which the MSDS or other information were reviewed;
· processes or activities that were assessed;
· details of all risks identified;
· decisions about the risk and why they were made;
· practicality of reducing the risk; and
· controls in place to eliminate risks however if this is not possible, employers must control the risk.
Step 3 - Control the risk
3.32 Subdivision 8.3.2 outlines the necessity for a risk control process to be in place.
3.33 After completion of a risk assessment, consideration must be given to controlling the risks. The three main steps in risk control are:
· development and implementation of control policies and procedures, in consultation with employees;
· monitoring the effectiveness of the control strategies; and
· reviewing as necessary.
3.34 Part 4 of this code discusses risk control strategies in further detail.
Step 4 – Review
3.35 A risk management program is a repeating cycle - even though one hazard may be eliminated or controlled, the process continues. You will require a systematic monitoring and review system to identify the potential for new hazards which may be introduced into a workplace. These hazards can be due to circumstances such as:
· new technology, equipment or substances;
· new work practices or procedures;
· changes in work environment, e.g. moving offices, staff reduction; and
· new staff with different skill/knowledge levels.
4. Risk control strategies
4.1 Regulation 8.17 specifies that risks can be controlled by either:
· eliminating the hazard; or
· if this is not practicable, reducing the risk as far as is practicable.
4.2 A focus should be placed upon eliminating risks, for example, not using the dangerous goods at all. However, where the risk cannot be eliminated, it is necessary to implement a strategy that will reduce the risk as far as practicable. This may be achieved by:
· using dangerous goods with a lower risk; and
· reducing the quantity of dangerous goods at the workplace.
4.3 If a risk cannot be eliminated or reduced, the employer must implement appropriate engineering controls and systems of work to assist in reducing the risk.
4.4 Effective control strategies should be introduced based on hazard identification and risk assessment process along side other activities in the workplace.
4.5 When developing risk control strategies, the action to control one risk should not create another. A particular risk control should not be applied in isolation unless the employer is satisfied that the other risk controls implemented will not be jeopardised.
4.6 Documents specifying risk controls generally apply to particular classes of dangerous goods. When using these documents, employers are to be aware that most of the risk control systems have been prepared as an integrated package, which involves engineering and administrative controls in addition to personal protection equipment. The application of risk controls is therefore likely to satisfy the risk control duty imposed by the regulations if all of the associated controls specified in the standard, having a bearing on the particular risk, are adopted.
Strategy 1 - Eliminate the hazard from the workplace
4.7 The most effective method of risk reduction is eliminating hazards and risks at the source which may include either the dangerous goods or activities which increases the level of the risk.
Eliminate the use of dangerous goods
4.8 Dangerous goods maybe essential for the operation of the workplace and therefore, elimination is not practicable. However, there may be situations where eliminating some dangerous goods may be appropriate. Some examples are:
· An employer could use a physical process rather than a chemical process to clean an object such as using high-pressure water or steam rather than solvents or use water based paints rather than solvent based paints;
· Where appropriate, use clips, clamps, bolts or rivets rather than adhesive; and
· Chlorine may be produced by electrolysis rather than storing/handling other dangerous goods which are comprised of chlorine or its compounds at the workplace.
Eliminate the activity
4.9 Designing the layout of a workplace is an effective way of minimising risks and hazards. Considerations to workplace layout may include:
· Ensuring that storage and handling areas are not used as thoroughfares to reduce the risk of collisions at the workplace; and
· Restricting employees from carrying ignition sources or prohibiting employees from having matches, lighters, mobile phones, or spark producing tools in work areas.
Strategy 2 - Substitute or modify the hazard
4.10 Substitution is the replacement of dangerous goods or hazardous activities that present a higher degree of risk associated with other dangerous goods, substances or activities of a lower risk. Substitution of a dangerous good for a product that is not dangerous can often be cost effective. The employer may be required to consider the following examples:
· Substituting a less volatile material to control a vapour hazard may cost less than the installation and maintenance of a mechanical ventilation system;
· It may be reasonable to substitute a non-dangerous good for a dangerous good by degreasing with a detergent instead of a chlorinated or volatile solvent;
· Substitute a flammable liquid with a combustible liquid; and
· Use dangerous goods with a single hazard as indicated by a single class without a subsidiary, risk rather than mixing goods that have one or more subsidiary risks.
Safer activities
4.11 Processes should be designed for activities which have higher risks and goods involved may be substituted for those which have a lower risk. These may include:
· using diluted acids and alkalis rather than concentrates;
· use stretch wrapping rather than flame heat shrink to palletised goods;
· use a pallet cage rather than stretch wrapping in areas where static electricity generated during the wrapping process would increase hazards;
· use a solid in paste or pellet form rather than as dust/powder;
· apply paint by brush rather than spray
· transfer packages by conveyor rather than forklift
· use non-sparking tools in a hazardous atmosphere
Reducing quantities
4.12 Reducing quantities of dangerous goods at the workplace usually leads to an overall reduction in risk. Methods of inventory reduction to minimise the risks of storage of dangerous goods at the workplace include:
· just in time ordering rather than storing large quantities of dangerous goods; and
· prompt disposal of dangerous goods which are no longer required.
4.13 Where a workplace does not have the appropriate facilities to store dangerous goods safely, an alternative storage location that is appropriate should be used to store the goods when the goods are not in use.
4.14 Careful planning is required to achieve an optimum inventory level. It may not always be possible to reduce the quantities of dangerous goods that are stored and handled at a workplace, even though this will usually reduce risk.
4.15 The additional movement associated with frequent delivery of dangerous goods that are required to stabilise other dangerous goods stored and handled at the workplace may create further risk.
Strategy 3 - Isolate the hazard
4.16 Isolation is the separation of dangerous goods from people and other property, including other dangerous goods. Isolation may be achieved by enclosing, separating by distance or by the use of barriers. The principles of isolation should be a high priority when establishing new workplaces for the storage and handling of large quantities of dangerous goods. Isolation methods may include:
· Distancing the dangerous goods from protected works, other dangerous goods people and other properties so interaction is not possible;
· Enclosing a hazardous activity;
· Storing incompatible dangerous goods, such as Class 5.1 oxidizing agents and flammable or combustible materials, in separate buildings which are separated by sufficient distances so that interaction is impossible and an incident in one area will not involve another; and
· Installing a screen wall such as a vapour barrier that has an appropriate fire resistance level to provide additional isolation.
Strategy 4 - Use engineering methods to control the hazard at its source
4.17 Engineering controls including structures, plant, equipment and processes that are designed to reduce the hazards associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods, such as:
· minimising the generation of dangerous goods;
· containing or suppressing dangerous goods including their vapours and dusts;
· eliminating, confining or controlling hazardous processes, plant or equipment that may pose some threat to the dangerous goods;
· protecting dangerous goods and installations from external factors such as rain or sunshine; and
· limiting the area of contamination in the event of spills or leaks.
4.18 Examples of engineering controls may include:
· Enclosing the dangerous goods or external hazard;
· Providing adequate ventilation;
· Sparging or blanketing exposed liquid surfaces with an inert atmosphere to prevent an explosive atmosphere forming;
· Developing automatic processes to eliminate human error;
· Fitting sensors and controls for liquid levels, pressure or temperature to minimise loss and formation of hazardous atmospheres and eliminate overflow and uncontrolled reactions;
· Specify the right electrical circuitry;
· Construct barriers between incompatible goods; and
· Install suitable devices to protect installations from external hazards.
Strategy 5 - Use administrative controls
4.19 Administrative controls are systems of work that can eliminate or reduce risks that consist of properly designed, implemented work practices and procedures that are often used in support of engineering controls.
4.20 The most important aspect of introducing effective administrative controls is ensuring people are properly informed and trained to implement the controls.
4.21 Administrative controls rely on agreed work practices and procedures between the employer and employee. It is important that these controls are simple and developed to match the skills and capabilities of the people who will use them.
4.22 Examples of administrative controls may include:
· document safe work procedures that describe the correct methods for performing all activities;
· implementing operating procedures that ensure the integrity of structures, plant and equipment are maintained at all times;
· conduct training and supervision to provide the necessary knowledge and skills required to ensure correct procedures are followed safely;
· introduce procedures that limit the number of people in the dangerous work area but also prevent lone occupancy;
· introduce job rotation for employees to limit the period of exposure;
· introduce procedures to ensure that work involving inspection, maintenance, repair testing and cleaning is carried out to minimise risk;
· regularly clean contamination from walls and surfaces, dust and drip removal from all work areas and ensuring lids on containers are in place when not in use or when being moved;
· monitor workplaces to ensure that safe working conditions are maintained;
· develop procedures for waste disposal and effective decontamination and inventory control;
· develop well designed and rehearsed emergency procedures; and
· enforce controls on activities that are inconsistent with the safe storage and handling of dangerous goods, such as eating, drinking, and smoking.
Strategy 6 - Introduce Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
4.23 PPE consists of devices and clothing that provide individual employees with additional protection from hazards. When used correctly, they are used in conjunction with other control measures to further reduce risk.
4.24 As a matter of principle, PPE should not be used as the sole control measure except where no other measures are practicable. However, its use with other control measures may often reduce the risk of personal injury.
4.25 For PPE to be effective, an employer must ensure protective devices are selected that provide the required level of protection from risks associated with the particular task. Only approved clothing and equipment are to be used.
4.26 It is imperative that all employees understand the proper use of the equipment and the circumstances where it should be used. Detailed instruction for the correct use of personal protective equipment and the circumstances it is used are essential.
4.27 All equipment is to be readily available, clean and sized correctly for all employees who are required to use it. An effective system of cleaning and maintenance should be devised and implemented by trained staff in accordance with a maintenance and servicing schedule.
4.28 In some cases, it will not be possible to reduce the risks to an acceptable level without the use of PPE. An MSDS for dangerous goods will normally contain recommendations on the selection and use of personal protection equipment for that particular dangerous good. This advice should be followed unless the employer determines, following a risk management assessment and in consultation with employees, that other protection measures would be more appropriate. More guidance appropriate to particular types of PPE can be located in Australian Standards AS1940-2004 (Storage and handling of combustible material).
Strategy 7 - Control risk at the design stage
4.29 One of the best times to develop a risk control strategy is at the design stage. Well-considered design can reduce establishment costs and help avoid ongoing operational costs that can result from a poorly set out and complex systems of work. Considerations at the design stage may be:
· Designing the workplace layouts by ensuring the storage of incompatible substances and fire risk goods are located away from any bulk storage of combustible goods; and
· Buildings can be purpose designed and constructed of materials suitable for the types of goods to be stored and handled at the workplace.
4.30 It is not always possible to design the workplace from a blank canvas. In many cases, the storage and handling of dangerous goods must be accommodated within an existing workplace where there are constraints with the location of buildings and outside storage areas.
4.31 There is often limited scope for redesigning access to the workplace or within the workplace. However, it will still be possible to redesign systems of work and processes to reduce the risks associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods.
Process design
4.32 Risks associated with a chemical or a physical process should be designed out by adopting the most appropriate work method or system of work.
4.33 Where there is a choice of chemical reactions that involve dangerous goods, each possible reaction pathway will have certain inherent hazards and risks associated with it.
4.34 Similarly, there may be a choice of physical processes that are available to achieve the same result. For each of the alternatives, the hazards should be identified and their relative risks assessed. The processes that result in the lowest overall risk should be selected.
Design of structures and plant
4.35 All structures and plant associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods should be:
· designed so the risks associated with each item are eliminated as far as practicable, while ensuring the risks of the total system are minimised;
· manufactured to a high standard within the design specification, and from quality, durable materials which will not be adversely affected by the planned storage and handling of the dangerous goods;
· installed only after all hazards associated with the installation have been identified, their risks assessed and control measures implemented as required;
· commissioned only after undergoing thorough testing to ensure that any unpredicted hazards have been identified, control measures implemented and agreed procedures developed to ensure safe operation;
· operated only in accordance with the agreed procedures by authorised personnel who have received appropriate training in the correct procedures;
· maintained and repaired as required to ensure additional hazards or increased risks are prevented during normal operation or breakdown; and
· if required, decommissioned in a manner which does not introduce additional risks or, where this is not practicable, the additional risks are minimised and controlled.
4.36 It is more effective to incorporate isolation and engineering controls into structures and plant at the design stage, rather than to attempting to modify existing designs and installations. It may not be practicable to retrofit control features such as spill containment or natural ventilation once the plant or structure has been installed.
Implementation of risk control strategies
4.37 Once the employer has determined the risk control measures mechanisms should be implemented, applied and practised on a continuous basis.
4.38 Over time, there is an ever-increasing risk of familiarity when working with a hazard. This may lead to complacency and shortcuts with potentially tragic outcomes may result. Employers should consult employees and their representatives regarding ways to guard against this occurring.
4.39 Where there are a number of risks and administrative control measures to be implemented in a workplace, a further administrative control such as a Safety Management System (SMS) may be required to monitor the compliance and effectiveness of these controls.
4.46 Whether or not a SMS should be developed and the detail that it contains is dependent on the nature of activities at the workplace. Many corporate and proprietary systems exist, which have common features, such as:
· scope, policy and objectives;
· assignment of responsibilities;
· operating procedures;
· standards, codes and laws;
· management of change;
· scheduling and establishing procedures for reviews; and
· system auditing and corrective action.
4.47 Only people who have the appropriate levels of qualifications, knowledge, skills and experience should be in control of work areas. Arrangements for adequate supervision of all workers should be in place at all times where dangerous goods are stored and handled.
4.48 All risks with unacceptable consequences must be actioned immediately. It may be necessary to close down operations to eliminate the risk in the short term until effective risk control measures are in place.
4.49 If breaches of the regulations occur, action must be taken as soon as practicable to address the breach and any risk resulting from that breach must be eliminated or reduced as far as is practicable.
5. Specific risk control duties
5.1 Regulations 8.18 to 8.27 relate to the duties employers must adopt to control risks, including:
· physical separation;
· keeping dangerous goods stable;
· impact protection of structures, plant and containers;
· maintaining the integrity of containers;
· transfer of dangerous goods;
· fire protection; and
· emergency preparedness.
Physical separation of dangerous goods from people, protected places, and other property
5.2 Regulation 8.18 requires an employer to eliminate any risk to a person, protected place or any property at, or outside the workplace which may result from a dangerous occurrence, involving the storage or handling of dangerous goods.
5.3 If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk, the employer must reduce any risk by separating the dangerous goods from the person, protected place or other property.
5.4 Physical separation is the principal method by which risks to other occupancies are minimised. Separation fulfils a dual purpose by:
· protecting other occupancies from dangerous goods; and
· protecting dangerous goods from the other occupancies.
5.5 Separation may include:
· isolating the dangerous goods, by distance;
· using effective barriers; and
· a combination of both.
5.6 In deciding what may be effective to control a specific risk, an employer should consider the types of hazard and risks the dangerous goods stored and handled in the workplace may pose to adjacent properties. This analysis should include:
· the quantity of dangerous goods stored and handled in the work area;
· the type of installation and the processes applied to the dangerous goods in the work area and their associated hazards;
· all other activities in the work area which may increase the risks; and
· any control measures in place that will reduce the risks.
5.7 If possible, separation distances should be applied in a way that risks would not require additional control measures. However, if this is not possible, barriers may be required.
5.8 The employer should consider any risk posed to a barrier used instead of or, in conjunction with separation, when used to isolate dangerous goods. For example:
• the effect that climatic elements may have on a barrier and its effectiveness;
• the level of fire resistance provided by the barrier; and
• the structural capability which may be required to withstand weather and overpressure resulting from internal or external incidents.
Separation of dangerous goods from incompatible substances
5.9 Regulation 8.19 requires employers to separate dangerous goods from all other goods they are not compatible with to assist in the prevention of any dangerous interaction.
5.10 Segregation would generally apply in this instance as it involves storing and handling incompatible goods in separate areas, or using physical barriers or distances if they must be stored within the same area.
5.11 As a rule, dangerous goods should not be stored above or below other goods with which they may interact.
5.12 As far as is practicable, an employer must not allow dangerous goods to:
· interact with incompatible goods; and
· contaminate food, food packaging and personal use products, such as cosmetics, cigarettes, medication and toiletries.
5.13 Workplace systems and procedures must be developed and enforced which includes the training and supervision of personnel to ensure the segregation of incompatible substances at all times.
Keeping dangerous goods stable
5.14 Regulation 8.20 requires that unless the goods are about to be used in a manufacturing process, an employer must ensure that as far as is practicable they are stored or handled to ensure they do not accidentally become unstable, decompose or change. This will assist in avoiding increased risks associated with the goods, or creating a different hazard from those already identified as many dangerous goods can be highly reactive, unstable, or self-reactive except under controlled conditions.
5.15 An employer must make sure the dangerous goods are stored in accordance with the ADG Code or the manufacturer’s specifications, if the stability of the goods depends on the employer:
· maintaining specified proportions of substances that constitute the dangerous goods;
· including a stabilising ingredient; and
· keeping the goods at or below a control temperature.
5.16 This regulation does not apply to goods if they are about to be used in a manufacturing process.
Impact protection – structures and plant
5.17 Regulation 8.21 requires that to prevent damage from the movement of the structure or plant including any attached pipe work or equipment, an employer must ensure that structures or plant used for the storage or handling of dangerous goods are appropriately located and fixed to a stable foundation if necessary.
5.18 The most likely source of impact are vehicles or other mobile plant, an employer should also consider any threats from external sources such as nearby railways, airports or construction activities.
5.19 Measures required for preventing or controlling impact normally depends on the nature of risks. Impact protection measures may be necessary for:
· structures containing dangerous goods;
· plant and equipment including storage and process vessels, associated pipe work, pumps and controls;
· storage areas (including transit storage) for packages, IBCs and associated shelves and racks; and
· exposed parts of the fire protection systems.
5.20 Installation of crash protection measures, such as bollards and guardrails may provide impact protection. The design of these measures should absorb the energy of any reasonably foreseeable impact and minimise the likelihood of injury to anyone involved in the incident.
Impact protection - containers for bulk dangerous goods
5.21 Regulation 8.22 requires that a container and the pipe work or equipment attached must be protected from damage, which may result from activities in the workplace.
5.22 Bulk containers are usually designed focussing on the storage of the goods rather than the impact from other objects. The employer should be aware of:
· the integrity of the container;
· location of the container; and
· any underground tanks.
Integrity of container
5.23 Understanding the risks associated with leaks from bulk containers, employers should pay particular care to factors that are required to maintain the integrity of the storage container in all operating conditions. Factors to consider include:
· structural soundness to withstand stresses from the product being stored;
· stability, rigidity and suitability of foundations;
· stresses imposed by pipe work and other attachments;
· atmospheric conditions including sun, wind and rain;
· the effects of external impacts; and
· the extent to which an acceptable level of corrosion is to be allowed for over the service life of the container.
Location
5.24 Bulk containers should be located to provide the minimum separation from other occupancies.
Underground Tanks
5.25 Underground tanks should be constructed, located and protected to eliminate risks and threats to the environment from:
· failure, usually due to corrosion or stress loading which may allow the escape of dangerous goods into the water table; and
· spills from above ground pipe work and filling points.
5.26 The seepage of dangerous goods from an underground tank, or through faulty foundations of an underground tank, may go undetected for years. Leaked material can migrate through the water table and present a risk to people and property for considerable distances from the leaking tank.
5.27 Other risks involved with the seepage of underground tanks are the threat of dangerous goods building up in locations such as telecommunication pits or basements of buildings. This may endanger the people who are required to access these locations for the purpose of employment or residence.
5.28 Underground storage installations for bulk dangerous goods and combustible liquids are usually subject to additional controls from environmental authorities, and local government.
Spills and containment of dangerous goods
5.29 Regulation 8.23 requires that if a spill, leak or accidental release of dangerous goods occurs, appropriate actions must be taken to contain the dangerous goods within the workplace.
5.30 Leaving containers open when not in use is one of the principal sources of dangerous goods incidents. This leads to spillages, generation of ‘hazardous atmosphere’ and fire. Procedures, supervision and training should ensure containers are sealed when not in use.
5.31 The design of a spill containment system should ensure that the risks associated have been assessed and it is large enough that all spills can be held safely until cleaned up. Factors the employer should be aware of include:
· the nature of the dangerous goods (whether liquid or solid);
· the quantity of the dangerous goods;
· the size of the largest container or reasonably foreseeable largest spill;
· the potential impact if the dangerous goods escape to the environment;
· whether it is necessary to provide for the management of firewater at an incident;
· a separate spill containment is provided for incompatible goods;
· the materials used to construct the containment system, as well as any materials used for absorption, are compatible with the dangerous goods;
· other materials in the vicinity that will prevent contamination of groundwater or soil; and
· the systems integrity will be maintained in any foreseeable incident.
Transfer of dangerous goods
5.32 Transferring dangerous goods generally poses a far greater risk than those experienced in static storage areas. The goods will frequently be unconfined at some stage of the transfer process that may include pouring or pumping dangerous goods from one contained to another.
5.33 Regulation 8.24 requires employers to ensure any risks associated with the transfer of dangerous goods to, from or within the workplace are eliminated. If elimination is not possible, the employer must control the risk by avoiding spillage or overflow, reducing static electricity, vapour generation, ensuring transfer fittings are compatible, avoiding sources of ignition and ensuring that the dangerous goods remain stable.
5.34 The transfer system design and its operation should achieve the safe transfer of dangerous goods and take into account factors including:
· hazards associated with dangerous goods and the proposed method of transfer;
· required flow or transfer rates and quantities; and
· external hazards and adjacent activities.
5.35 It is essential that all components of the transfer system are compatible with, or suitably protected from, the goods being transferred. The ADG Code also includes specific requirements for the transfer of dangerous goods.
Preventing spills
5.36 Particular care is required where spillage may occur away from spill containment installations, such as the transfer by pipe work through areas without bunding.
5.37 Methods for preventing spills and overflow include:
· overflow protection equipment on receiving vessels;
· flow and pressure regulators on pipe work or pumps;
· interlocking of valves and switches; and
· systems for detecting losses from pipe work and fittings, such as static pressure loss detectors, measurement to determine losses in transfer or external sensors.
Static electricity
5.38 The prevention of static electricity generation must be controlled when transferring non-conductive flammable and combustible liquids, finely divided combustible powders and any other dangerous goods with a flammability hazard.
Vapour emissions
5.39 Vapour emissions resulting from transfer can be minimised by considering the following:
· the use of enclosed transfer systems;
· keeping lids open only for the minimum period required for transfer;
· minimising exposed surface areas;
· avoidance of splash filling;
· minimising the temperature of liquids being transferred; and
· providing extraction ventilation for all sources of vapour.
5.40 Compatibility is required for all items that may need to interconnect, including:
· hoses, couplings and associated fittings;
· earthing connections;
· vapour recovery connections; and
· telemetry where required.
Fire protection
5.41 Regulation 8.25 outlines the requirement to have a fire prevention and fire protection system in the workplace.
5.42 Workplaces must have fire protection and fire fighting equipment that is designed for use in relation to the types and quantities of dangerous goods, which are stored or handled at the workplace.
5.43 When assessing the appropriate fire protection methods, the employer must consider:
· the conditions under which the goods are stored and handled at the workplace;
· the fire load of the dangerous goods;
· the compatibility of the dangerous goods with other goods;
· risks from other sources; and
· proximity to other workplaces or premises.
The fire protection system
5.44 The fire protection system must provide the capacity to quickly control and extinguish any fire that occurs involving the dangerous goods. It must also, effectively protect the dangerous goods stored within the workplace from any fire in adjacent properties.
5.45 The Building Code of Australia may not be sufficient for fire protection of different types of buildings. For the storage and handling of dangerous goods, additional fire protection from the goods and the particular hazards and associated fire loads are required.
5.46 The fire load will depend on the particular hazards of the dangerous goods and combustible liquids and on the quantities being stored and handled in the work area. Other factors that may influence the fire load and the amount and type of protection needed include:
· storage configuration, height, and density of the dangerous goods;
· location, design, type of construction and total floor area of the building or work area;
· nature of any structures, plant, and equipment including their materials of construction;
· type of operations in the building or work area, with particular attention to
whether the goods are bulk, or in open or closed packages;
· if any processing of dangerous goods occurs within the workplace.
5.47 The fire protection system should provide protection on and off the premises for:
· dangerous goods installation from other exposure
· other exposure from the dangerous goods.
5.48 Attention should be given to the types of structures present, with current and future activities.
Water supply
5.49 A reliable water supply will be required for the protection system at most premises where dangerous goods and/or combustible liquids are stored and handled. The supply must be sufficient to supply both the internal fire protection equipment and additional equipment, used by the emergency services authority controlling a fire at the premises.
5.50 Where sufficient supply is not available from the main water supply, it may be necessary to supplement this with additional water storage and/or pumps. If the local authorities permit it, water may be obtained from reliable alternative sources such as close by rivers and dams, using whatever resources are suitable.
5.51 The emergency services authority that is attending a fire at the workplace should be requested to conduct regular checks on the adequacy of the local water supply and pressure within the workplace.
Fire alarm systems
5.52 The design and installation of the fire alarm system should contain:
· automatic systems capable of being operated manually through the use of clearly identified alarm activators at convenient and safe locations, easily accessible to work areas;
· alarm signals that are distinguishable from any other signal to permit ready recognition, and is clearly audible throughout the premises;
· an effective visual system as an alternative, should be installed where there are high noise levels or the use of protective clothing may prevent the recognition of an alarm signal; and
· a system that remains operable if the main power supply fails.
Fire fighting equipment
5.53 Fire fighting equipment should be located so that:
· it is in a conspicuous position;
· it is readily accessible in the event of an incident, preferably being sited adjacent to exit doors or on exit routes;
· it is convenient to, and readily accessible from, the risk being protected; and
· all dangerous goods and other items being protected can be directly reached by the fire-fighting medium.
5.54 Installation, testing and maintenance of fire fighting equipment must be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
5.55 All fire fighting equipment is to be appropriately labelled. It may prove to be beneficial to the employer to confirm the labelling is correct with the relevant emergency services authority.
5.56 If at any stage the fire protection or fire fighting equipment becomes ineffective, the employer must ensure that any risk resulting from the loss of these items are assessed. If alternative resources cannot be obtained to provide the required level of protection, it may be necessary to cease operating until effective fire protection can be restored.
Hose reel systems
5.57Hose reel systems must be located on each storey of a building where dangerous goods are stored and handled. Where the total floor area exceeds 300m², hose reels should reach every location and installations within the building. Appropriate hydrant hose systems may be substituted for fire hose reels, if there are trained persons capable of safely using the equipment.
5.58 Hose reels should be provided with a hose length of 36m, have appropriate signage, and are protected by a cabinet or other suitable means if it is in an environment where it may be damaged.
5.59 Foam hose reels should be capable of producing satisfactory foam that meets the manufacturers’ specifications, suitable for the risks being protected and are to be identified by appropriate signage.
Fire hydrants
5.60 Fire hydrants should be equipped with hose branch and nozzle except where it is not appropriate and prudent to do so, for example:
· where this equipment may be susceptible to theft; and
· there are no personnel properly trained to operate them.
5.61 External hydrants should be:
· in a convenient position, but in a safe distance from exit doors and hard standing areas;
· easily visible with appropriate identification signs; and
· capable of providing the appropriate coverage.
Monitors
5.62 Monitors are to be installed in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications and should be installed where fire control may require the direction of large quantities of firewater (or equivalent) at a fixed installation, with minimum exposure to risks for fire fighters.
5.63 Monitors should be installed in consultation with the relevant fire brigade.
Automatic sprinkler systems
5.64 Automatic sprinkler systems may comprise of:
· individual-actuation sprinklers;
· deluge sprinklers;
· foam sprinklers; and
· a combination of any of the above.
Portable fire extinguishers
5.65Portable fire extinguishers should be clearly visible, readily available, unobstructed and convenient to the relevant risk but not adversely affected by hazardous or climatic conditions. AS (2444-2001) provides relevant information on the selection and storage of fire extinguishers.
Emergency Preparedness
5.66 Emergency procedures and a written emergency plan should be prepared where quantities of dangerous goods in a workplace are greater than the manifest levels set out in Schedule 7 of the regulations.
Emergency procedures
5.67 Regulation 8.26(a) requires emergency procedures be developed, implemented and maintained for all workplaces that store and handle dangerous goods. This ensures the safe handling of all assessed emergencies such as fire, spillage, vapour release, uncontrolled reaction and external threats.
5.68 The extent of emergency procedures required will depend on the size and complexity of the workplace, types and quantities of dangerous goods and the processes involved when the goods are in use.
5.69 Employers must communicate and train all employees and other relevant persons who may be affected if emergency procedures are required.
5.70 Emergency procedures should include:
· the means of raising the alarm;
· the method for the summoning the appropriate emergency services; and
· any actions to be taken by employees in an emergency to ensure the safety and health of all persons and to minimise damage to property and the environment.
5.71 An example of an effective emergency procedure is a simple one-page document; in point form, suitable for display on signs or carrying by employees or visitors as a pocket card.
5.72 Regulation 8.26(b) requires that appropriate clean-up equipment is available for use in case of an emergency.
Emergency plans
5.73 Regulation 8.27 requires employers to ensure that an emergency plan is developed, implemented and maintained at the workplace where:
· dangerous goods with amounts larger than the manifest quantity in Schedule 7, are being stored and handled at the workplace; and
· dangerous goods of a Class mentioned in column 2 of an item of Schedule 7 are being stored and handled at the workplace.
Purpose of a plan
5.74 The purpose of an emergency plan is to minimise the effects of any dangerous occurrence or near miss at a workplace. The emergency plan should enable the employer to prioritise and focus on the most likely incidents. It should incorporate actions required for worst-case scenarios and should be adaptable in all circumstances dependent upon the severity and the type of incident.
5.75 The emergency plan should also ensure that appropriate clean-up equipment and material, such as absorbents and neutralisers are available for use in case of an emergency.
Consultation and communication
5.76 During the development of the emergency plan, employers should:
· consult with employees, employee representatives, and the relevant emergency service authority; and
· provide a copy of the plan to the emergency services who may then issue written advice to the employer about the plan. If this occurs, the employer should consider the advice.
5.77 Employers should consult with local government authorities for environment and planning to ensure compliance with any legislation and emergency planning in the jurisdiction. The employer should also consider consulting with neighbours if an emergency may affect adjoining properties.
5.78 The emergency plan should be communicated to all persons who may be affected by an emergency.
Content of emergency plan
5.79 The emergency plan should be comprehensive and should coordinate all aspects of emergency management, including:
· copies of all emergency procedures;
· responsibilities of key persons in managing emergencies;
· circumstances to activate the plan;
· systems for raising the alarm;
· estimating the extent of the emergency;
· summoning emergency services authorities in the event of an emergency is, or has the potential to become a dangerous occurrence;
· protection of all persons including detailed evacuation procedures and methods for accounting for all people at the workplace;
· isolation of the emergency area to prevent entry by non-essential personnel;
· roles of on-site emergency response teams;
9.7 The process used for consultation should consider the needs of employees and employee representatives from a non-English speaking background. The employer should also have regard to the literacy needs of employees in the workplace.
9.8 Examples of consultation methods are:
· direct discussion;
· toolbox meetings;
· quality circles;
· health and safety committee meetings;
· quality reports;
· hazard inspections; and
· special working parties.
Induction, information, training and supervision
9.9 Regulation 8.58 specifies that an employer must provide induction, information, training and supervision for all employees and anyone else under their control who is involved with the storage and handling of dangerous goods. This would include contractors and consultants.
Induction
9.10 To be effective induction and training should be designed to take into account the requirements of particular employees and the tasks they perform.
9.11 Depending on the complexity of the operation, the employer should consider the use of a formal induction program. The system must seek to ensure each person who may be involved with the storage and handling of dangerous goods, achieves the appropriate knowledge and competencies and is effectively supervised until they are capable of performing their duties safely.
Training
9.12 Training must be provided for those persons who work directly with dangerous goods but should also be provided for those who:
· purchase and distribute goods;
· operate, test, inspect, clean, or adjust plant and equipment used with the goods; and
·
provide and maintain fire protection and personal protection equipment.
9.13 It is especially important to ensure managers and supervisors who manage or supervise people in tasks affecting the storage and handling of dangerous goods are properly trained.
9.14 Although training plays an important part in ensuring effective risk control, high levels of training and instruction cannot replace effective measures to control the risk.
9.15 Training for employees must enable them to perform their tasks safely in accordance with the regulations. Training and induction is required to ensure employees are aware of the properties of dangerous goods they are working with and the risks associated with them.
9.16 Training is to include instruction relating to the following matters:
· the relevant provisions of the dangerous goods regulations and this code of practice;
· the nature of the hazards and properties of dangerous goods;
· the processes for identifying, assessing, and controlling each risk associated with the employee’s duties;
· the use and maintenance of measures for the control of each risk;
· safety systems (if any) and the systems of work that relate to the storage and handling of the dangerous goods;
· the safe management and safe conduct in the workplace;
· the effective operation of the emergency plans for the workplace;
· issues relating to plant and equipment;
· the equipment that may be required for use in an emergency;
· the correct use, fitting, and maintenance of personal protection equipment; and
· specific controls, which are, required around dangerous goods installations.
9.17 Following training employees should be able to demonstrate:
· an understanding of the hazards and risks associated with working with dangerous goods;
· the processes, procedures and practices relating to their specific work area;
· what to do if an incident/accident occurs;
· emergency procedures relevant to their work area; and
· reporting of incidents or other matters that may have an impact on the risks associated with the dangerous goods.
9.18 Training review should include the ongoing monitoring of work practices to ensure that safe practices are maintained.
9.19 If changes such as the introduction of new dangerous goods or plant, a change in operating procedures or changes in the layout occur in the workplace the requirement for further training should be assessed. Additional training should be undertaken before changes are implemented. Refresher training should also be undertaken regularly to ensure all persons at the workplace maintain their skills and knowledge.
9.20 A record of any induction and training activities for each employee must be kept for at least 5 years. Training records should include:
· the names of the employees or other trainees;
· dates of attendance;
· the title and content of the training course;
· the duration of training;
· the name of the training provider; and
· how outcomes of training were assessed.
Supervision
9.21 Only supervisors who have sufficient training and knowledge with dangerous goods should be appointed in roles that influence how employees’ or contractors’ apply procedures. These people should be capable of providing instructions and advice, which always lead to safe outcomes.
Visitors
9.22Visitors in the workplace may create an increased risk with storage and handling system and the dangerous goods. The employer can guard against this by providing appropriate information, controlling access and providing suitable supervision to visitors as required. Controls measures should be put in place to ensure as far as practicable the risk to visitors and others are minimised.
9.23 An employer must ensure that unauthorised access to the workplace is controlled by implementing effective security measures. In view of the hazards associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods, access to premises and work areas must be restricted to those having a legitimate purpose.
9.24 Notwithstanding the provision of information, employers may consider keeping visitors under constant supervision while they are at the workplace.
Register of information about dangerous goods
9.25 Regulation 8.59 requires an employer to keep an updated hardcopy register listing each of the dangerous goods stored or handled at the workplace.
9.26 The register should provide the product names of the dangerous goods that are stored or handled in the workplace. The register should also include the MSDS for each of the dangerous goods where one is required under the regulations. The register must be readily accessible to an employee who works with dangerous goods or an employee representative.
9.27 Dangerous goods contained in a package that under the ADG code does not have to be marked and dangerous goods in transit do not have to be included in the register.
9.28 The register should be updated when:
· new dangerous goods are stored or handled in the workplace;
· the use of existing dangerous goods are discontinued; and
· the manufacturer or supplier of dangerous goods on the register provides a revised MSDS.
9.29 As the MSDS must be updated by the manufacturer every five years therefore all MSDS contained in the register should be less than five years old.
9.30 If an employer must keep a register under Part 6 of the regulations, the majority of the information contained in the register will be the same. It is possible to maintain a single register as long as it meets all the requirements determined in both sets of regulations.
10. Duties of an employer who builds, owns or operates a pipeline
10.1 Division 8.4 of the regulations apply to an employer who builds, owns or operates a pipeline.
10.2 Regulation 8.62 specifies that if an employer builds a pipeline, the employer must ensure that the pipeline is:
· designed, manufactured, installed, commissioned, operated, maintained and decommissioned so that a risk associated with the pipeline is eliminated; or
· if it is not practicable to eliminate the risk, the risk is reduced as far as practicable.
10.3 The employer must also ensure that as far as practicable, activities, structures, equipment or substances that do not form part of the pipeline do not affect the dangerous goods or the pipeline in a manner that increases risk.
10.4 To ensure the pipeline is located and operated in a safe manner the employer must undertake hazard identification and a risk assessment to identify and control any risks associated with operating a pipeline. Controls should be in place to reduce risks associated with a pipeline and its contents to people at a workplace or at areas, which the public may have access to.
10.5 Each risk assessment is to be reviewed within every five-year period. If circumstances change, new risks are introduced associated with the operation of the pipeline or other information becomes available, a new risk assessment is to be completed.
10.6 The employer should put in place controls to ensure that, as far as practicable:
· unintentional movement of the pipeline is prevented;
· the pipeline is sound and is fit for the purpose it is designed;
· emergency shutdown devices are fitted to the pipeline; and
· any maintenance work carried out on the pipeline does not contribute to or cause a dangerous occurrence.
Notification in relation to pipelines
10.7 Regulation 8.63 specifies if on 1 May 2006, an employer is operating a pipeline that will carry dangerous goods, Comcare must be notified by 1 August 2006. The notification must be in writing using the approved form containing the following information:
· the name of the employing agency who owns and operates the pipeline;
· the location of the pipeline including where it begins and ends (the supplier and receiver of the goods);
· the name, title and contact details of two people responsible for the pipelines operation;
· whether current procedures for the safe operation and maintenance of the pipeline are in place;
· whether current procedures for responding to an emergency relating to the pipeline are in place;
· details of pipeline identification numbers which are used in the workplace;
· details of emergency services points of contact;
· details of each Class of dangerous goods being transferred through the pipeline; and
· the average and maximum quantities of dangerous goods being transferred through the pipeline each calendar year.
10.8 If an employer intends to begin operating a pipeline line after 1 May 2006, they are required to notify Comcare with all details specified in 10.7 prior to the operation of that pipeline commencing.
10.8 Re-notification is required every two years unless any information contained in paragraph 10.7 changes or if any of the following circumstances apply:
· before action is taken to modify, relay or renew the pipeline, or to make the pipeline safe.
· if all or part of the pipeline is removed, decommissioned, closed or abandoned.
11. Duties of employees
11.1 Regulation 8.67 requires an employee or contractor that is aware of a matter that may affect the ability of the employer to comply with the regulation, to report it to the employer as soon as practicable.
Appendixes
Schedule 7 of the Regulations – Quantities of dangerous goods
Schedule 8 of the Regulations - Placard requirements
Standards and Codes applicable to all classes of dangerous goods
|
Appendix 1 Schedule 7 of the Regulations
| Item | Dangerous goods | Packing group | Placarding quantity | Manifest quantity |
| 1. | Class 2.1 | 500L | 5 000L | |
| 2. | Class 2.2, Subsidiary risk 5.1 | 2 000L | 10 000L | |
| 3. | Class 2.2, other than Subsidiary risk 5.1 | 5 000L | 10 000L | |
| 4. | Class 2.3 | 50 L | 500 L | |
| 5. | Aerosols | 5 000L | 10 000L | |
| 6. | Cryogenic fluids | 1 000L | 10 000L | |
| 7. | Class 3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, or 8 | I | 50 kg or L | 500 kg or L |
| 8. | Class 3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, or 8 | II | 250 kg or L | 2 500 kg or L |
| 9. | Class 3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, or 8 | III | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 10. | Class 3 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 11. | Class 4.1 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 12. | Class 4.2 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 13. | Class 4.3 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 14. | Class 5.1 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 15. | Class 5.2 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 16. | Class 6.1 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 17. | Class 8 | Mixed | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 18. | Class 9 | II | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 19. | Class 9 | III | 5 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 20. | Class 9 | Mixed | 5 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L |
| 21. | Mixed Classes of the placarding quantity for each of which is 2 000 kg /l or less | 2 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L | |
| 22. | Mixed classes of the placarding quantity for at least one of which is 5 000 kg/l or more | 5 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L | |
| 23. | Goods too dangerous to be transported | 5 kg or L | 50 kg or L | |
| 24. | Combustible liquids stored or handled with fire risk dangerous goods | 1 000 kg or L | 10 000 kg or L | |
| 25. | C1 combustible liquids in bulk containers | 10 000 L | 100 000 L | |
| 26. | C1 combustible liquids in packages | 50 000 L | 100 000 L | |
| 27. | C1 combustible liquids in bulk and packages combined | 50 000 L | 100 000 L |
Appendix 2 Schedule 8 - Placard requirements
1 Bulk dangerous goods
(1) A placard for bulk dangerous goods must:
(a) have dimensions not less than the dimensions shown in Figure 1; and
(b) show the following details for the goods in the following positions on the placard:
(i) in position (a) — the proper shipping name;
(ii) in position (b) — the UN number;
(iii) in position (c) — the Hazchem code;
(iv) in position (d) — the class label and the subsidiary risk label (if any).
(2) The numbers and letters used for the proper shipping name, UN number and Hazchem code must be:
(a) black on a white background; and
(b) if the proper shipping name takes no more than 1 line — at least 100 mm high; and
(c) if the proper shipping name takes 2 lines or more — at least 50 mm high.
(3) Despite paragraph (2) (a), a letter of the Hazchem code may be white on a black background.
(4) The class label must:
(a) comply with the form and colouring specified in Chapter 7 of the ADG Code; and
(b) if there is also a subsidiary risk label — have sides of at least 200 mm; and
(c) if there is no subsidiary risk label — have sides of at least 250 mm.
(5) A subsidiary risk label must:
(a) comply with the form and colouring specified in Chapter 7 of the ADG Code; and
(b) have sides of at least 150 mm.
Figure 1 Template for a placard for bulk dangerous goods
Figure 2 Example of a placard for bulk dangerous goods
2 C1 COMBUSTIBLE liquids
A placard for C1 COMBUSTIBLE liquids must display the words ‘COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID’ as shown in Figure 3:
(a) in black capital letters at least 100 mm high; and
(b) in lettering of the kind shown in Figure 3; and
(c) on a white or silver background.
Figure 3 C1 COMBUSTIBLE liquids placard
3 Packaged dangerous goods
(1) A placard for packaged dangerous goods must:
(a) display the class label for each of the dangerous goods to which the placard relates; and
(b) comply with the form and colouring specified in Chapter 7 of the ADG Code.
(2) Each class label must have sides of at least 100 mm.
Figure 4 Example of a placard for packaged dangerous goods
4 HAZCHEM outer warning placard
(1) A HAZCHEM outer warning placard for dangerous goods must:
(a) be at least 120 mm high; and
(b) display the word ‘HAZCHEM’ as shown in Figure 5:
(i) in red capital letters at least 100 mm high; and
(ii) in lettering of the kind shown in Figure 5; and
(iii) on a white or silver background.
Figure 5 Outer warning placard
5 Goods too dangerous to be transported
(1) A placard for goods too dangerous to be transported must:
(a) be in the form shown in Figure 6; and
(b) display the words ‘UNSTABLE’, ‘GOODS’, ‘TOO DANGEROUS’ and
‘TO TRANSPORT’ on separate lines as shown in Figure 6:
(i) in black upper-case text; and
(ii) in lettering of the kind shown in Figure 6; and
(c) when used in a placard for packaged dangerous goods — have sides of at
least 100 mm; and
(d) when used in a placard for dangerous goods in bulk — have sides of at
least 250 mm.
(2) The background colour for the top half of the placard must be the colour described as Canary 2 in paragraph Y11 of AS 2700-1996.
(3) The background colour for the bottom half of the placard must be the colour described as Signal Red 2 in paragraph R13 of AS 2700-1996.
Figure 6 Goods too dangerous to be transported placard…
Appendix 3 Standards and Codes
STANDARDS AND CODES APPLICABLE TO ALL CLASSES OF DANGEROUS GOODS
National Code of Practice for the Preparation of Material Safety Data Sheets [NOHSC:2011], Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra
National Code of Practice for the Labelling of Workplace Substances [NOHSC:2012], Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra
Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail (ADG Code), Federal Office of Road Safety, Canberra (Version 6)
AS 2243 Safety in laboratories
AS 2430 Classification of hazardous areas
AS 3833 The storage and handling of mixed classes of dangerous goods in packages and intermediate bulk containers
AS/NZS HB76 Dangerous Goods Initial Emergency Response Guide
AS/NZS 4360 Risk management
AS 1020 The control of undesirable static electricity
AS 1319 Safety signs for the occupational environment
STANDARDS AND CODES SPECIFIC TO ONE PARTICULAR CLASS OF DANGEROUS GOODS OR TO SPECIFIC TYPES OF DANGEROUS GOODS WITHIN A CLASS
Class 2 Gases
AG 501 Australian Gas Association Industrial and Commercial Gas Fired Appliances Code of Practice AG 501
AG 504 Australian Gas Association Code of Practice for Natural Gas Vehicle Refuelling Stations AG 504
AG 601 Australian Gas Association Gas Installation Code of Practice AG 601
AS 1596 The Storage and Handling of LP Gas
AS 1894 Code of practice for the safe handling of cryogenic fluids
AS 2022 SAA anhydrous ammonia code
AS 2030 Cylinders for compressed gases
AS 2090 Uninsulated road tank vehicles for compressed liquefiable gases
AS 2337 Gas cylinder test stations
AS 2927 The storage and handling of liquefied chlorine gas
AS 3961 Liquefied natural gas - storage and handling
AS 4332 Storage and handling of gases in cylinders
AS 4289 Oxygen and acetylene reticulation systems
Class 3 Flammable and combustible liquids
AS 1692 Tanks for flammable and combustible liquids
AS 1940 The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
AS 2106 Methods for the determination of the flashpoint of flammable liquids (closed cup)
AIP CP4 Design, installation and operation of underground petroleum storage systems (UPSS)
AIP CP22 The removal and disposal of underground petroleum storage tanks
Class 4 Flammable solids; substances liable to spontaneous combustion; substances that in contact with water emit flammable gases
AS 1678.4 Emergency Procedure Guide - Transport - Group text EPG for Class 4.1 substances - Flammable solids; substances liable to spontaneous combustion; and substances that in contact with water emit flammable gases
Class 5 Oxidising agents and organic peroxides
AS 2714 The storage and handling of hazardous chemical materials - Class 5.2 substances (organic peroxides)
AS 4326 The storage and handling of oxidising agents
Class 6 Toxic substances
AS/NZS 4452 The storage and handling of toxic substances
AS 4081 The storage, handling and transport of liquid and liquefied polyfunctional isocyanates
Class 8 Corrosive substances
AS 3780 The storage and handling of corrosive substances
Class 9 Miscellaneous dangerous goods
AS/NZS 4681 The storage and handling of Class 9 (miscellaneous) dangerous goods and articles
STANDARDS AND CODES APPLICABLE TO AN INDUSTRY OR PARTICULAR SITUATION
AS 2507 The storage and handling of pesticides
AS 3846 The handling and transport of dangerous cargoes in port areas
STANDARDS AND CODES APPLICABLE TO PARTICULAR DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
AS CB 18 SAA pressure piping code
AS 2809 Road tank vehicles for dangerous goods
AS 2865 Safe working in a confined space
AS 3000 SAA wiring rules
AS 3873 Pressure equipment –operation and maintenance
‘BCA’ Building Code of Australia
STANDARDS AND CODES APPLICABLE TO PIPELINES
AS 1345 Identification of contents of piping, conduits and ducts
AIP CP5 Pipeline and underground tank identification
FIRE PROTECTION STANDARDS AND CODES
General
AS 1221 Fire hose reels
AS 1603.5 Manual alarm call points
AS 1670 Automatic fire alarm installations
AS 2118 Automatic sprinkler installations
AS 2419 Fire hydrant installations
AS 2441 Fire hose reel installations
AS 2941 Pumpsets
NFPA 11 Low expansion foam
NFPA 11A Medium and high expansion foam
NFPA 11C Mobile foam apparatus
NFPA 17 Dry chemical extinguishing systems
NFPA 12 Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems
Fire Extinguishers
AS 1841.1 General requirements
AS 1841.2 Water type
AS 1841.3 Wet chemical extinguishers
AS 1841.4 Foam type
AS 1841.5 Powder type
AS 1841.6 Carbon dioxide type
AS 1841.7 Vaporising liquids
AS 4265 Wheeled fire extinguishers
AS 2444 Selection and location
AS 1850 Classification of extinguisher
AS 1851.1 Maintenance
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
AS 2919 Industrial clothing
AS 3765.2 Clothing for protection against hazardous chemicals - Limited protection against specific chemicals
AS/NZ 1337 Eye protectors for industrial applications
AS/NZ 2161 Occupational protective gloves - General requirements
AS/NZ 1800 Occupational protective helmets - Selection, care and use
AS/NZ 2210 Occupational protective footwear - Guide to selection, care and use
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