1. INTRODUCTION
This Code provides guidance on managing the risks associated with demolition work by following a systematic process that involves:
•identifying hazards
• if necessary, assessing the risks associated with these hazards
• implementing control measures, and
• maintaining and reviewing the effectiveness of control measures.
Guidance on the general risk management process is available in the Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks.
CONSULTING YOUR WORKERS
Section 47
Section 48
The person conducting a business or undertaking must consult, so far as is reasonably practicable, with workers who carry out work for you who are( or are likely to be) directly affected by a work health and safety matter.
If the workers are represented by a health and safety representative, the consultation must involve that representative.
Consultation with workers and their health and safety representatives is required at every step of the risk management process. In many cases, decisions about construction work and projects are made prior to engaging workers, therefore, it may not be possible to consult with workers in these early stages. However, it is important to consult with them as the demolition work progresses.
Consultation may include discussions about:
• demolition methods
• type of risk control measures
• interaction with other trades
• Safe work method statements
• provision of appropriate amenities
• procedures to deal with emergencies.
CONSULTING, CO-OPERATING AND CO-ORDINATING ACTIVITIES WITH OTHER DUTY HOLDERS
Section 46
A person conducting a business or undertaking must consult, co-operate and co-ordinate activities with all other persons who have a work health or safety duty in relation to the same matter, so far as is reasonably practicable.
A construction workplace will often be shared by various persons conducting a business or undertaking, such as structural engineers, mobile plant operators and asbestos removalists. Persons with overlapping duties should exchange information about the risks associated with the demolition work and work together in a co-operative and co-ordinated way so that all risks are eliminated or minimised so far as is reasonably practicable.
Further guidance on consultation is available in the Code of Practice: Work Health and Safety Consultation, Co-operation and Co-ordination.
CODE OF PRACTICE | DEMOLITION WORK 5