Hazardous Substance Guidelines

Objective

This Guideline ensures hazardous substances are transported, handled, stored, labelled and disposed of in a manner that eliminates the potential for harm to persons and the environment. This guideline applies to all materials which meet the definition of a hazardous substance and which are stored, handled, transported or used or created as a result of processes at the workplace.

Procedures

1	Each Department will allocate responsibility to authorised staff for the co-ordination of hazardous substances. These staff will have expertise in hazardous substances and will undertake suitable training.
2	A risk assessment must be undertaken to determine the level of risk associated with the use of a hazardous substance. Such an assessment must factor in each hazardous substance in the workplace, the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for each hazardous substance, the labelling on the package (which identifies the relevant health and safety information) and the nature of the work required to be performed with the hazardous substance. A risk assessment must be revised at least every five years. The hierarchy of control is to be used in controlling the risk.
3	Atmospheric monitoring is to be provided if there is an exposure standard for the hazardous substance which is likely to have an adverse effect on the employee's health. Where monitoring results show control measures have deteriorated or are not effective, prompt action must be taken to minimise employee exposure. Records of atmospheric monitoring must be kept for at least 30 years.
4	Health surveillance is to be provided if there is an exposure standard for the hazardous substance, which is likely to have an adverse effect on the employee's health. The purpose of health surveillance is to detect adverse changes to health that may be due to occupational exposure to substances and in evaluating control measures.
5	A Hazardous Substances Manifest must be prepared and identify all hazardous substances. Emergency guidelines must incorporate actions to be taken where hazardous substances are or may be involved.
6	MSDS must be obtained for all hazardous substances held in the workplace. MSDSs must be accessible to all staff.
7	Hazardous materials storage areas will ensure product stability and segregation from any potentially reactive materials. The storage will display appropriate signs and emergency information.
8	All containers will be durably and accurately labelled.
9	In the event of new hazardous substances entering the workplace, a risk assessment will be undertaken and reasonable control measures put into place.
10	Disposal and treatment of hazardous substances will be performed by competent persons and in defined ways according to legislation. All waste at the workplace which meets the definition of prescribed waste under EPA guidelines is to be identified and appropriate measures documented for safe disposal in accordance with legislative requirements.`
11	Regular workplace inspections will include a check on storage areas, handling practices and disposal methods associated with hazardous substances.

Spill control

Measures will be taken to ensure any spills are contained and dealt with according to manufacturers and EPA requirements. Spill Kits, appropriate for the quantity of the substances stored, will be on hand in all areas where substances are stored.

Responsibilities

Executive Management	Executives are to make resources available and support the effective implementation of this guideline.
Managers	Managers are responsible for ensuring the above guidelines are adhered to.
Manager WHSE	The Manager WHSE is responsible for arranging training, atmospheric monitoring or health surveillance as appropriate and keep appropriate records.
Employees	Employees are responsible for following the guidelines relating to hazardous substances.

Scope

This guideline applies to all personnel who are employed, directly or indirectly, by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank.

Definition

Hazardous Substance: Means substances that have the potential to harm human health. They may be solids, liquids or gases and may be pure substances or mixtures.

Atmospheric Monitoring: Is the use of suitable and valid sampling and analytical techniques to obtain an estimate of the level of airborne contaminants.

Health Surveillance: Is the process of monitoring the health of employees exposed to certain hazardous substances.

Approval

This guideline was reviewed and approved by Executive in November 2002.