HAZARDOUS MATERIAL MANAGEMENT

Hazardous Materials Management is a significant element of many organisations’ Safety Management Systems (SMS). Any business that undertakes work requiring the manufacture, supply, storage, use or disposal of hazardous materials must implement a detailed procedure that covers how they manage this safely.

 

There are numerous Legislative and Australian Standard requirements that must be met in relation to hazardous materials. 

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Hazardous substances are agents that can adversely impact on human health, whereas dangerous goods are classified for their physical properties e.g. flammability, corrosive nature etc.  Both can have significant consequences if not managed correctly.  Many businesses often underestimate the risks involved, particularly those that only store a small amount of hazardous materials.

 

Control measures for managing these risks vary widely and can include:

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• Eliminate the use of hazardous materials altogether

• Use a less hazardous material

• Suitable containment i.e. ventilation, anti-static and earthing

• Procedures for the management of hazardous materials, handling procedures, permit to work and isolation processes, emergency planning, signage, training and atmospheric testing

• Personal protective equipment including respirators, gloves, goggles and protective clothing

• Bunded controls including spill response equipment, and more.

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AREAS COVERED: Australia Wide