Working Alone, in Isolation or from Home

3. Suggested standard types and approval levels

Low risk rating

Group Approval may be given for this type of work, e.g. a competent worker

• studying, working in computer labs, office or clerical work

Medium risk rating

Group Approval may be given for this type of work, e.g. a competent worker

• painting or drawing
• video and picture production
• working with small amounts of hazardous substances where the risk assessment identifies the risk is moderate

High risk rating

Individual Approval’ may be given to employees provided adequate controls have been implemented as described in legislation, a Code of Practice or Australian Standard. These documents identify current accepted work practices for high risk activities.

High risk hazards which may be identified include:

• operating equipment or machinery, including workshop machinery, capable of inflicting serious injury, such as lathes and power saws
• working with, or near, highly toxic or corrosive substances where there is a significant risk of exposure to the substance, taking into account the volume used
• using apparatus that could result in explosion, implosion, or the release of high energy fragments or significant amounts of toxic or environmentally damaging hazardous material
• working at a height over two. metres e.g. climbing ladders
• working with exposed energised electrical or electronic system with powers exceeding 100 VA and voltages exceeding 40 V
• working with significant volumes of hazardous substances.
• welding

Note: every effort should be made to reduce the level of risk to a low or moderate level.

Note: no approval will be given if a high risk hazard still exists after controls are put in place.