General safe work expectations
- Look after your own safety and watch out for the people around you.
- Report hazards, near misses and incidents promptly — don’t work around them.
- Follow procedures and signage, and ask if you’re unsure.
- Keep your area clean and walkways clear.
Working at a desk
- Set your chair, screen and keyboard to a comfortable position (see the workstation SOP).
- Take short breaks and change posture regularly.
- Report any discomfort early so a workstation check can be arranged.
Using computers and screens
- Position the screen about an arm’s length away, top of screen near eye level.
- Reduce glare from windows and lights where you can.
- Give your eyes a rest from the screen periodically.
Printers and photocopiers
- Load paper gently and don’t overfill the tray.
- For jams, follow the on-screen guide; never force rollers or hot parts.
- Log a Service Desk ticket for toner changes, repeated jams or spills.
Manual handling of files and boxes
- Plan the lift, keep the load close, bend your knees and avoid twisting.
- Use a trolley for more than two boxes or anything awkward.
- Store heavy items between knee and shoulder height; ask for help when needed.
Kitchen safety
- Don’t overload power outlets or run several high-draw appliances on one board.
- Clean up spills straight away to prevent slips.
- Report damaged appliances and tag them out of use.
Electrical safety
- Check leads and plugs for obvious damage before use.
- Don’t daisy-chain power boards or run cords across walkways.
- Report damaged equipment and leave it switched off until checked.
Walkways and trip hazards
- Keep aisles, exits and fire egress clear at all times.
- Route and cover cables so they aren’t a trip hazard.
- Close drawers and cupboards fully after use.
Reporting hazards
- Use the hazard form to log anything unsafe — it goes to your supervisor and the WHS Coordinator.
- Add enough detail for someone to find and fix it.
- Make the area safe in the meantime if you can do so without risk.
Responding to incidents
- In an emergency, call 000 first, then follow the emergency procedures.
- Get first aid for any injury and tell your supervisor.
- Report the incident so it can be reviewed and prevented from happening again.