Outdoor Activities and Working Outdoors

3 Implement controls

Once hazards have been identified and risk assessed, the principal and/or their delegate, in consultation with the Health and Safety Representatives (HSR) and employees must ensure a control strategy to either eliminate or control the risk is developed and implemented. Examples include:

• develop internal policies or procedures as required (for example, wet day timetables, SunSmart UV policy or extreme weather conditions procedure)
• review traffic and pedestrian management plans
• identify employees who are required to work outdoors for extended periods of time (for example, maintenance workers, gardeners or Physical Education teachers)
• implement appropriate control measures to minimise the risks of those exposed to weather extremes or UV radiation for extended periods of time
• take note of weather reports and enhance control measures when weather warnings are issued
• check the SunSmart UV Alert to see forecast daily UV levels and the times sun protection is required
• provide information and training to employees who may be exposed to:
  • extreme hot or cold temperatures (for example, SunSmart posters)
  • UV (for example, Sunsmart)
  • animal or insect bites
  • noxious plants
  • adverse weather (lightning, rain, wind)
• ensure all employees are aware of the emergency plan including evacuation points and procedures that may be required:
  • at the workplace
  • at other workplaces
  • during a severe weather event
• ensure those with pre-existing medical conditions are appropriately managing their health and relevant medication, and that equipment is available for the duration of the outdoor activity
• ensure engineering controls are in place (for example, provision of natural or built shade)
• ensure appropriate personal protective equipment is available to employees and students (for example, broad-brimmed hats, AS1067 sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen or mosquito nets)