Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Overview of Risk Control Duties,Dangerous Goods Act1985

Overview of Risk Control Duties
Control by:
substituting
other goods and
reducing
quantity
r.407
Design of new
premises, plant,
processes and
systems of work
r.410
Structures and
plant
r.418
Protection from
impact r.421
Transfer of
dangerous goods
r.423
Ventilation
r.425
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18.4 Designing out risk
You must not use premises for the storage and handling of dangerous goods unless the
premises, plant, processes, systems of work and activities have been designed to eliminate
risks associated with storage and handling of dangerous goods, or, if this is not practicable,
reduce the risk so far as is practicable.
Design of the premises
Good design is the most effective tool you have to reduce risk. It means:
· reduced establishment costs;
· avoiding high operational costs caused by poorly set-out premises; and
· avoiding complex systems of work to cope with the constraints of poorly set-out premises.
An effective design process means that problems can be anticipated and solved before they
become real “bricks and mortar” problems.
Take account of any external factors in the layout of the premises, such as whether the
location and type of fire protection system meets with operational requirements of the
emergency services authority. If your premises has quantities of dangerous goods that exceed
the fire protection threshold and you intend to establish a fire protection system, you must
request the written advice of the emergency services authority in regard to the design of the
fire protection system, and have regard to that advice.
Designing a process with low risk
You must design out risk associated with a chemical or physical process by adopting the most
appropriate work method or system of work.
If a chemical process is involved, you may need to consider reaction pathways. Complexity,
equipment, efficiency, by products, cost, reliability and energy demand will influence the
selection of a particular reaction pathway. Where a physical process is involved, consider the
range of alternatives. For example, evaporation may be preferable to freeze drying, which
involves the reduction of temperatures and pressures.
You must identify the hazards and assess risks associated with each of the work processes
being considered. Select the process that eliminates the risk. If it is not practicable to do so,
adopt the process that most effectively reduces the risk.
Once a process has been selected, you must identify, assess and control any hazards that may
be associated with the use of dangerous goods in that process.
18.5 Categorisation of risk control measures
Regulations 407 and 410 combine to create, in effect, a three-step hierarchy. This is:
1. Elimination;
2. Control by substitution, engineering controls or isolation; and
3. Administrative controls or personal protective equipment
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You must not rely solely on administrative controls or personal protective equipment unless it
is not practicable to control the risk by measures higher in the hierarchy.
(a) Elimination
The most effective method of risk reduction is the elimination of risks at the source. This
includes eliminating either the dangerous goods or the activity which gives rise to the risk. If
you store and handle dangerous goods and the dangerous goods are essential to the operation
of the premises (for example, where your principal business is contract storage of dangerous
goods) then elimination of all risks associated with the dangerous goods is not likely.
Examples of the elimination of dangerous goods include:
· use of a physical process rather than a chemical process to clean an object, such as the use
of ultra-sound, high pressure water or even steam cleaning rather than solvent washing;
· water based rather than solvent based paints or powder coating;
· clips, clamps, bolts or rivets instead of an adhesive;
· hot melt or water-based instead of solvent-based adhesives; and
· producing chlorine in-situ by electrolysis rather than having to store or handle other
dangerous goods which contain chlorine or one of its compounds.
Examples of eliminating an activity which gives rise to risk include:
· replacing a forklift (possible ignition and mechanical damage to the packages) to move
flammable packaged dangerous goods around with a system of conveyors. In this case an
activity that is dependent on the driver’s skill and care has been eliminated and replaced by
a handling method that does not depend on the skill and care of an operator.
· replacing the manual filling of a large open vat mixing and reacting flammable and toxic
dangerous goods (principal risks being fire, explosion, toxic release or spillage) with an
enclosed continuous process utilising “in the pipe” mixing and reaction (principal risk
spillage). In this case the activity of hand filling is eliminated but the process (chemical) is
not altered.
· wet mixing of a friction-sensitive dangerous goods powder instead of a hazardous dry
mixing process.
(b) Substitution
You must consider substituting the dangerous goods with other goods that have a lower risk
associated with their storage and handling, and reducing the quantity of dangerous goods
stored and handled. When considering whether to substitute dangerous goods with another
substance, you should ensure that the replacement substance does not create a different type
of risk. You also need to consider all the risks arising from the storage and handling of the
replacement substance to determine whether substitution is practicable.
Examples of substitution include:
· degreasing with a detergent instead of a chlorinated or volatile solvent;
· a combustible liquid such as diesel instead of petrol and kerosene which are Class 3
flammable liquids;
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· a dangerous goods with a higher Packing Group number, for example, substituting xylene
(PGIII) for toluene (PGII);
· a less dangerous propellant in an aerosol, such as carbon dioxide Class 2.2 instead of unodorised
LPG of Class 2.1;
· dangerous goods without Subsidiary Risk; and
· using dangerous goods in a less dangerous form, such as a paste, pellets or a solution,
instead of a powder.
(c) Reducing quantities stored and handled
You must consider reducing the quantity of dangerous goods stored and handled. The
principle of reducing quantities of dangerous goods that are kept in storage is generally sound
but there a number of circumstances where the principle is not applicable. The most common
circumstances are where the premises is specifically designed to store dangerous goods –
either to contain the output from production at a manufacturer’s premises, or where the
occupier’s business is warehousing or contract storage. In some circumstances, the risk
assessment process may result in a risk control that determines a minimum quantity of
dangerous goods that must be maintained at the premises. For example, it may be necessary to
ensure that stock levels of a dangerous goods used as a stabiliser do not fall below a critical
level.
Ways to reduce quantity levels include:
· careful attention to inventory levels through effective stock control, such as the use of justin-
time ordering and supply arrangements;
· prompt disposal of dangerous goods no longer needed;
· selecting manufacturing and handling processes that are continuous rather than batch
processes;
· selecting chemical processes that have high conversion rates and result in less recycling or
stockpiling of raw materials; and
· using just-in-time in manufacturing areas (ie. only handling those dangerous goods that are
necessary for a production shift rather than stock piling the supply for several shifts in the
manufacturing area).
Care is necessary, however, to achieve the optimum inventory level. The optimum level that
may have been determined through cost control may not be the same as the optimum level
that should be achieved to reduce risk. For example the additional vehicle movements and the
increased handling associated with more frequent deliveries can create further risk.
(d) Engineering controls
Engineering controls are controls which use engineering measures to change the physical
characteristics of structures, plant, equipment and processes to reduce the risk associated with
the storage and handling of dangerous goods. They achieve this in a number of ways, by:
· minimising the generation of dangerous goods;
· containing or suppressing dangerous goods, including their vapours and dusts;
· eliminating, confining or controlling hazardous processes, plant or equipment that may
pose a risk to the dangerous goods;
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· protecting dangerous goods and installations from external hazards and/or environmental
factors such as rain or sunshine; or
· limiting the area of contamination in the event of spills or leaks.
Engineering controls that should be considered include:
· totally or partially enclosing the dangerous goods or external hazard;
· providing adequate spill control to deal with the largest foreseeable spill (refer to section
19.6);
· specifying and installing appropriately rated electrical circuitry, fittings and equipment to
minimise ignition hazard (refer to section 19.8);
· providing adequate ventilation, including local exhaust ventilation, to eliminate flammable
or harmful atmospheres (refer to section 19.9);
· sparging or blanketing exposed liquid surfaces by an inert atmosphere to reduce
evaporation and prevent explosive atmosphere formation;
· automating processes to eliminate human exposure and error;
· fitting sensors and controls for liquid levels, pressure and/or temperature, to minimise loss
and formation of hazardous atmospheres, and eliminate overflow and uncontrolled
reactions;
· fitting safety critical control devices, alarms and critical condition shut-down devices;
· installing lighting which provides ample illumination for the tasks to be performed (refer to
section 19.10);
· installing fire detection systems and fire control systems (refer to section 23); and
· incorporating suitable protective devices to protect installations from external hazards,
such as crash barriers to protect from moving vehicles.
Appendix 7 provides further guidance on engineering controls for storage and handling sites.
(e) Isolation
Regulation 415 requires that you ensure the risk to people, property and other dangerous
goods at or beyond the boundaries of your premises is controlled by isolation.
Isolation is the separation of dangerous goods from people and other property, including other
dangerous goods. Physical separation is the principal method by which such risks are
controlled. Separation fulfils a dual purpose: protecting the other occupancies from the
dangerous goods; and protecting the dangerous goods from the other occupancies. Many
Australian Standards refer to “protected works” and define the expression it terms of different
types of occupancies, buildings or structures. All the various definitions for “protected works”
fall within the scope of property and do not limit it.
Distance, the use of effective barriers (such as fire rated walls or vapour barriers) or a
combination of both may achieve separation. The types of barriers used will be dependent on
the nature of the risks to be isolated.
Examples of isolation include:
· distancing the dangerous goods from people and other property;
· enclosing a hazardous activity, such as decanting in a fume cupboard where emissions can
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be controlled by the use of scrubbers; and
· installing a vapour barrier with an appropriate fire resistance level (FRL)13 to provide
additional isolation.
Determining separation distances
Factors to consider include:
· the types of hazards exhibited by the dangerous goods and the risks they pose to the other
occupancy;
· the quantity of dangerous goods stored and handled in the work area;
· the type of installation and processes applied to the dangerous goods in the work area and
their associated hazards and risks;
· all other activities in the work area, which may increase the risk; and
· any control measures in place that will reduce the risk.
Minimum separation distances
For most classes of dangerous goods, minimum separation distances are specified in the class specific
Australian Standards listed in Appendix 3.
For example, AS 1940 includes a number of separate tables for bulk storages and package stores of flammable
and combustible liquids from boundaries, on-site facilities and specific facilities such as schools, hospitals,
ships and other workplaces. Distances vary depending on quantities, Packing Group (or C1 classification),
whether packages are opened or closed and, in one instance, tank diameter.
It should be noted, however, that AS 1940 has direct application only to storage and usage situations. It does
not apply to plant in which flammable or combustible liquids are processed, even though these often give rise
to increased risk. Similar limitations apply to most other Standards listed.
To determine if barriers – used in lieu of, or in conjunction with distances to achieve
separation – are effective with the particular dangerous goods, consider:
· the types of hazards exhibited by the dangerous goods and the risks they pose to the
barrier;
· the extent of vapour barrier required and its effectiveness in varied climatic conditions;
· appropriate levels of fire resistance (FRL) to be provided, depending on the potential heat
load from internal or external incidents; and
· structural strength necessary to withstand weather and any overpressure resulting from
internal or external incidents.
Most class specific Australian Standards listed in Appendix 3 provide for separation distances
to be measured around suitable barriers. They are referred to as vapour barriers, screen walls
and fire walls.14
13 Fire resistance level (FRL) gives a measure of the protection offered by a wall or structure when exposed
to fire, in terms of structural adequacy, integrity and insulation. The FRL rating system is defined in AS
1530.4. Further information about screen walls and vapour barriers may be found in AS 1940 and the
Building Code of Australia.
14 Further advice on the use of screen walls can be found in Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS
3833 The Storage and Handling of Mixed Classes of Dangerous Goods in Packages and Intermediate
Bulk Containers. Australian Standard AS 1940 The Storage and Handling of Flammable and
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Segregation of dangerous goods within a storage area
When held in the same storage area, dangerous goods should be segregated from other
dangerous goods or substances with which they are not compatible. Incompatible dangerous
goods – for example, Class 5.1 oxidising agents and flammable materials – should be stored
in separate buildings that are separated by sufficient distance so that an incident in one will
not involve the other.
Useful guidelines for segregation of incompatible dangerous goods is provided in
Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3833 The storage and handling of mixed classes
of dangerous goods in packages and intermediate bulk containers.
Systems and procedures should be developed and enforced to ensure the segregation is
maintained at all times. Marking out those parts of the storage area where particular types of
dangerous goods are to be kept is one way of supporting those systems and procedures.
(f) Administrative controls
Administrative controls are systems of work or safe work practices that help to reduce risks
associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods.
Examples of administrative controls include:
· safe work procedures that describe the correct methods for performing all activities
associated with the storing and handling of dangerous goods, for example:
- procedures for waste disposal and effective decontamination;
- procedures to ensure that work involving inspection, maintenance, repair, testing and
cleaning is carried out without risk;
· reducing the number of personnel in the dangerous goods work area (for example, the use
of internal work permits to restrict non-essential access);
· rotation of employees (with the appropriate skills) to limit the period of exposure for
individual employees;
· good housekeeping, including regular cleaning of work areas;
· prohibiting:
- eating, drinking, smoking and the carriage of matches and lighters in potentially
contaminated areas;
- the use of heat in a hazardous zone.
(g) Personal protective equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes full-length overalls, aprons, abrasion or
chemical-resistant gloves, dust masks, respirators or breathing apparatus, safety footwear or
chemical-resistant boots, goggles or face shields, hard hats, hearing protection and fully
encapsulated suits.
The use of PPE in conjunction with other control measures may provide additional risk
control. However, PPE relies heavily on users following instructions and procedures
correctly. As a result, you may need to provide a greater level of supervision than is required
Combustible Liquids uses the term fire wall for this purpose.
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for other risk controls.
PPE may be necessary:
· where it is not practicable to achieve adequate control by other means;
· to safeguard safety and health until such time as adequate control is achieved by other
means, for example, where urgent action is required because of plant failure;
· during some infrequent maintenance operations where the short duration may make other
control measures impracticable;
· in an otherwise safe working environment, where protection may be required from acute
hazards in the event of sudden plant failure or other unexpected incident.
Selecting and maintaining PPE
MSDS will normally contain recommendations on the selection and use of personal protective
equipment for the particular dangerous goods. This advice should be followed unless the risk
assessment process determines that other PPE would be more appropriate.
When choosing the most appropriate PPE, ensure that:
· it provides the required level of protection from the risks associated with the particular
task;
· it is suitable for the individual’s size and build; and
· you consider the wearer’s need for mobility, dexterity, clear vision and communication.
You should ensure that people wearing PPE have been trained to fit and use it properly. Make
sure that the equipment is cleaned and maintained by appropriately trained staff in accordance
with relevant technical standards.15
18.6 Maintaining and reviewing risk controls
Once control measures are in place, you should check that they have been implemented
correctly and monitor their effectiveness. Control measures should be regularly reviewed.
Maintenance of control measures should include:
· frequent inspections;
· visual checks to ensure that controls are being properly applied;
· testing and preventive maintenance of engineering controls and PPE.
15 Further guidance on the selection, use and maintenance of personal protective equipment may be found in
the relevant referenced documents in Appendix 3.
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19. Specific risk control duties
19.1 Stability of dangerous goods
Many dangerous goods are highly reactive, unstable or self-reactive except under controlled
conditions. The Regulations require that those controlled conditions be maintained.
Information about the required levels of stabilisers and/or control temperatures should be
provided by the supplier and included in the MSDS.
Where the stability of the dangerous goods is dependent on regular dosing with a stabiliser
you should ensure that there are sufficient stocks kept at the premises to take account of any
possible supply shortage.
If the dangerous goods must be stored at or below a control temperature that can only be
maintained by refrigeration, you should provide back-up refrigeration or develop a
contingency plan in the event there is loss of cooling.
19.2 Controlling risk associated with plant used at the premises
Plant used in the storage and handling of dangerous goods must be manufactured, installed,
commissioned, operated, maintained and repaired so as to control the risk associated with the
storage and handling of dangerous goods.16
Plant used to store and handle dangerous goods includes storage tanks, pipework, process
vessels, mixing vats, driers and filters.
To comply with this requirement, plant should be:
· manufactured to a high standard within the design specification, from quality, durable
materials which will not be adversely affected by the planned storage and handling of the
dangerous goods;
· installed only after all hazards associated with the installation have been identified, and the
risks assessed and controlled;
· commissioned only after it has undergone thorough testing and agreed procedures
developed to ensure it can be operated safely;
· operated only in accordance with the agreed procedures by personnel who have received
appropriate training;
· maintained and repaired to ensure that no additional hazards or increased risk arise due to
normal operation, wear and tear and breakdown; and
· maintained, repaired and, when the need arises, decommissioned in a manner which does
not introduce additional risks.
Maintenance or repair of plant may involve the use of ‘hot work’ processes that generate heat
or introduces ignition sources. In these circumstances you must control the risk of fire or
explosion involving the dangerous goods. A formal ‘hot work permit’ system is
16 The guidance in this section complements the specific duties and guidance that applies to plant covered
by the Occupational Health and Safety (Plant) Regulations 1995 and the approved Code of Practice for
Plant.
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recommended. Some Australian Standards, such as AS 1940, provide detailed guidance on
‘hot work’ in areas where dangerous goods are stored and handled.
You must ensure that any pipework containing dangerous goods is marked so that the
dangerous goods are clearly identifiable, so far as is practicable. Suitable systems for
identification may be found in AS 1345 Rules for the Identification of Piping, Conduits and
Ducts and Australian Institute of Petroleum’s CP5 Code of Practice for Pipeline and
Underground Tank Identification.
Suitability of storage tanks
A storage tank constructed to AS 1692 Tanks for flammable and combustible liquids may be used to store
other classes of dangerous goods liquids like corrosive liquids and toxic liquids subject to a number of factors
including materials of construction and specific gravity. A tank designed and constructed for the storage of a
Class 3 flammable liquid like petrol may be suitable for diesel (C1 combustible liquid) or hydrochloric acid
(Class 8 dangerous goods). Any decision regarding the suitability of a tank must take into account the
chemical and physical characteristics of the dangerous goods, as well as structural considerations.
Plant and processes that are not used to store or handle dangerous goods, but have the
potential to interact with them, must not increase the risk associated with the storage and
handling of dangerous goods. Identify any hazards arising from such plant and processes. If
your risk assessment indicates there is a risk, control that risk using the methods outlined in
this section or by isolating the dangerous goods from the plant and processes.
19.3 Bulk containers for dangerous goods
A container and its pipework used for bulk storage needs to be:
· structurally sound and be capable of withstanding the stresses from the product being
stored;
· provided with stable foundations;
· resistant to corrosion over the service life of the container.
The bulk container must be inspected at sufficiently regular intervals to ensure that it remains
structurally sound. The results of the inspection must be recorded and retained for as long as
the container remains in service.
Specific design requirements for different types of bulk tanks and attachments including
pipework are included in several of the referenced documents in Appendix 3.
Underground tanks
Underground tanks pose risks and threats to people, property and the environment from:
· failure of the structure, usually due to corrosion, allowing the gradual escape of dangerous
goods into the water table; and
· spills from above-ground pipework and filling points.
Dangerous goods can migrate through the water table to present a risk to people and property
a long way from the tank. For example, flammable or toxic liquids and vapours can
accumulate in telecommunications pits or seep into building basements. Often the risks do not
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become evident until there has been heavy rain that causes the water table to rise and displace
the dangerous goods that have accumulated in the soil around the tank.
There are many techniques available to monitor the integrity of underground tanks and detect
any leaks at an early stage. They include inventory monitoring, sampling pits, and a range of
electronic measures. Effective prevention is achieved by frequent monitoring. Protecting
underground tanks from corrosion often requires the assistance of specialists.
Guidance on underground tank installations for petroleum products can be found in Australian
Institute of Petroleum CP4 Code of Practice for Design, Installation and Operation of
Underground Petroleum Storage Systems. Care should be taken in applying this guidance to
dangerous goods other than petroleum.
19.4 Cleaning of decommissioned containers
Any receptacle that has contained dangerous goods must be cleared of the dangerous goods
before it is decommissioned or disposed of.17 Once you have done so, any residual risk
associated with the receptacle must be controlled.
Specific advice is contained in AS 1940, other Australian Standards and industry codes such
as the Australian Institute for Petroleum’s CP 22 The Removal and Disposal of Underground
Petroleum Storage Tanks.
If you are developing a procedure for decommissioning of receptacles, it should include:
· control of risks arising from any mechanical cutting, oxy-cutting, grinding or any other
activities involving heat or friction;
· how any was waste generated will be stored or disposed of; and
· safe entry into a receptacle which is a confined space.18
Used packagings that have not been made free from dangerous goods should retain labels and
markings that properly identify the residual hazard. When they are free of dangerous goods,
the labels or markings should be removed.
19.5 Protection from impact
You must ensure that dangerous goods and any structure and plant associated with their
storage and handling, are protected against damage from impact with vehicles, mobile plant
ships or boats. Mechanical handling equipment used for moving containers of dangerous
goods including forklifts or overhead lifting grabs can cause damage to containers either
directly through mishandling or indirectly by moving the containers into other objects – like
projecting pipework, railings or structures.
The most effective ways to protect containers, their pipework and attachments from this
impact is to locate the containers away from trafficable areas or prevent vehicle access. Where
17 Where plant is being disposed of the disposal may be subject to the requirements of the Environment
Protection Authority (EPA). The requirements of this regulation and the guidance in this Code are
intended to operate in addition to any requirements of the EPA.
18 For further guidance, refer to the Code of Practice for Confined Spaces.
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vehicles must be able to come close to containers, the use of physical barriers like railings,
bollards or stanchions should be considered.
19.6 Spill containment
You must provide spill containment that will eliminate the risk or reduce risk so far as
practicable from any spill or leak of solid or liquid dangerous goods. This is required for
every area where dangerous goods are stored and handled. All spillages or leaks of dangerous
should be contained within the premises.
Factors that will determine the extent of spill containment include:
· the nature of the dangerous goods;
- if liquid, whether it is mobile or viscous;
- if solid, whether it will melt in a fire;
· the quantity of the dangerous goods;
· the size of the largest container or largest spill;
· the consequences of the spill; and
· whether or not it is necessary to provide for the management of firewater or other
extinguishing materials from an incident.
Spill containment for liquids may be achieved by:
· providing drains to a purpose built on-site catchment (for example, an interceptor or
remote impounding basin);
· grading the surface so that all spills are contained by the contours; or
· bunding the area to form a compound;19
· double walled containers;
· enclosing a tank with a partial or full height bund.
In some circumstances, it may not be necessary to provide any specific spill containment – for
example, if the dangerous goods are high melting point solids or highly viscous liquids (such
as some paints, resins and adhesives) in packages that are small in relation to the size of the
storage area.
Designing spill containment
You should ensure that:
· the spill containment system is impervious and can hold the dangerous goods until the spill
is cleaned up;
· the risks associated with the operation of the containment system are part of the design
consideration;
· the materials used in construction or for absorption are:
- compatible with the dangerous goods and other materials in the vicinity; and
19 A compound is an area bounded by natural ground contours or by a bund, being sufficiently impervious
to retain any spills or leaks of substances kept within the area pending the recovery of those spilled or
leaked substances.
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- appropriate to avoid contamination of ground water or soil;
· the capacity of any compound is sufficient for the volume of liquid (including a margin for
fire water) to be contained;
· separate spill containment is provided where goods that are not compatible are kept within
the one storage area;
· absorbent materials, barriers and booms are provided where needed to contain a spill
outside areas where physical containment is provided or to assist in clean-up;
· contaminated firewater can be removed during an incident if needed; and
· means are available for removing any rainwater that may accumulate in the area.
If the design and location of your spill containment system may affect emergency services
operating procedures you should consult with the emergency services authority.20 For
example, the location of a remote impounding basin may limit the deployment of fire fighting
equipment.
A number of documents referenced in Appendix 3 provide specific guidance on spill
containment.
19.7 Transfer of dangerous goods
Transfer of dangerous goods refers to the movement of the dangerous goods:
· from place to place within premises; and
· into or from a container.
It generally poses far greater risk than static storage. The goods will often be unconfined at
some stage of the transfer process such as when pouring or pumping from one container to
another. Additional hazards include:
· increased vapour levels around the operation;
· generation of static electricity;
· overflow or spillage; and
· spillage away from spill containment installations, such as where the transfer is by
pipeline.
The transfer system should take into account:
· hazards associated with the particular dangerous goods;
· required flow or transfer rates and quantities; and
· external hazards and adjacent activities.
If dangerous goods are transferred into a portable container for use at the premises, you must
ensure the container is marked with the Class label, Subsidiary Risk label and the product
name of the dangerous goods, or, if this is not possible, by some other means of clearly
identifying the dangerous goods. This is not required if the transferred dangerous goods are
consumed immediately and the container is cleaned free of dangerous goods.
20 The Regulations define “emergency services authority” as the Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services
Board or the Country Fire Authority.
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The ADG Code and several of the documents referenced in Appendix 3 provide specific
requirements for certain dangerous goods transfers.
19.8 Controlling ignition sources in hazardous areas
You must ensure that ignition sources are not present, so far as is practicable, in any
hazardous area where dangerous goods are stored or handled.
What are ‘hazardous areas’?
Flammable or combustible gases, vapours, dusts and mists may be generated or evolve within
a dangerous goods storage and handling environment. These can form explosive mixtures
with air in certain proportions. This risk is particularly relevant with dangerous goods of Class
2.1, 3 and 4 or dangerous goods with a Subsidiary Risk of 2.1, 3 or 4. However, other Classes
of dangerous goods may also contribute to explosive atmospheres under some circumstances.
The classification of ammonia does not indicate a flammable Subsidiary Risk because its
explosive limits are within a very narrow range.
An area where an explosive atmosphere may occur is described as a ‘hazardous area’. AS
2430 designates different levels of hazardous areas. That standard also describes the extent of
the hazardous area for many specific situations.
The extent of the hazardous area needs to be determined for all areas where the following
dangerous goods are stored or handled:
· Class 2.1, 3, 4 or 5 dangerous goods;
· dangerous goods with a Subsidiary Risk of 2.1, 3, 4 or 5; or
· goods which may generate combustible dusts.
The identification of hazardous areas should be undertaken by people having a thorough
knowledge of the storage and handling areas at the premises and the activities that involve the
dangerous goods.
Ignition sources
An ignition source is any source of energy sufficient to ignite a flammable atmosphere.
Ignition sources include:
· naked flames, including those from blow torches, shrink wrapping equipment, stoves, gas
or oil heaters, pilot lights, driers, cigarettes, lighters and matches;
· static electricity (see below);
· heat from appliances or from chemical or biological reaction vessels;
· friction from moving parts, such as fan blades rubbing nearby surfaces;
· sparks from grinding and welding;
· internal combustion engines and vehicles;
· electric equipment, such as power points, switches, lighting, appliances and batterypowered
forklift trucks, which is not rated for the hazardous area; and
· radio transmitters and mobile phones.
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Controlling ignitions sources – electrical equipment within hazardous areas
The ignition potential of electrical equipment located within a hazardous area can be
controlled by providing wiring, switching and equipment protection that is suitable for use in
the area. Guidance on electrical protection systems can be found in AS 1482 Electrical
equipment for explosive atmospheres – Protection by ventilation, and a number of other
documents listed in Appendix 3.
When you provide additional mechanical ventilation to reduce the extent of the hazardous
zone, you should also control any risks that would arise if the ventilation failed. One such
method would be the complete interlocked shutdown of all electrical systems within the room
or building.
Restrictions on possession of potential ignition sources
You should have a procedure to ensure that people do not take any substance or article with
the potential to be an ignition source within 3 m of a hazardous area.
Where a naked flame or ignition source is required in an operation adjacent to a hazardous
area, a formal ‘hot work permit’ system is recommended. Some Australian Standards, such as
AS 1940, provide detailed guidance on ‘hot work’ in areas where dangerous goods are stored
and handled.
Generation of static electricity
Static electricity may be generated by:
· movement (pouring, pumping, stirring and high velocity flow) of the dangerous goods or
combustible liquids, particularly dry powders and liquids of low electrical conductivity;
· dry air streams;
· movements of personnel, especially when wearing, donning or removing clothing and
footwear of low conductivity. (Some protective clothing – for example, those made of
synthetic fibres like polyester – may not be static resistant and care should be taken during
its selection);
· application and removal of plastic wrap;
· particulate or aerosol spray, including spray painting or the rapid discharge of a carbon
dioxide extinguisher; and
· moving plant.
Avoidance of static
To guard against static electricity discharge:
· all tanks, pipework, transfer systems and process plant associated with the storage and
handling system should be earthed, or otherwise protected, in accordance with AS 1020;
and
· use anti-static additives in non-conductive liquids and the wearing of conductive clothing,
especially footwear.
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Controlling ignition sources outside hazardous areas
All other ignition sources on premises where dangerous goods are stored and handled should be identified and
the sources eliminated or controls put in place where there is any likelihood that those ignition sources could
result in an incident. An example of a situation where an ignition source outside the hazardous area should be
eliminated is a gas fired furnace that is located in the likely path that flammable vapour that would follow in
the event of a spill of flammable liquid. Flammable liquid vapours are heavier than air and tend to flow by
gravity along natural channels and drains quite long distances before dispersing.
19.9 Ventilation
You must ensure that the risk associated with flammable, explosive or asphyxiant
atmospheric conditions is controlled.
The purpose of ventilation is to produce and maintain a safe working atmosphere in the
storage and handling area. Ventilation is achieved by the introduction or recirculation of air
by natural, forced or mechanical means.
Safe atmosphere
A safe working atmosphere is one in which:
· there is a safe oxygen level for breathing;
· hazardous gases, vapours, mists, fumes and dusts are within relevant exposure standards;
· the concentration of flammable gases, vapours, mists, fumes and dusts is always below 5
per cent of the lower explosion limit; and
· the build-up of heat and extremes of temperature is avoided.
To ensure a safe atmosphere is maintained, atmospheric testing and monitoring may need to
be carried out consistent with the hazards identified and the risk assessment.
Design considerations
A ventilation system for the storage and handling area should be exclusive to the particular
building, room or space. Where this is not achievable, the system may be linked to another
area provided that there will not be an increased risk arising from incompatible goods or any
other relevant hazard.
Local exhaust ventilation removes airborne contaminants from the working environment
before they reach the breathing zone of personnel in the area. It is usually more effective than
an increase in general ventilation. General or dilution ventilation has limitations and should
only be considered for contaminants of low toxicity. In addition, the quantity of contaminants
generated should be relatively small, otherwise it would not be practicable to achieve the air
volumes required for dilution.
Ventilation systems should be suitable for the types of dangerous goods on the premises. For
instance, where there are dangerous goods with vapours heavier than air, fumes should be
removed from the lowest point above any spill containment and fresh air introduced from
above.
41
Fresh air should be drawn from a source uncontaminated by exhaust air or other pollutants
and the exhaust discharged where it will not cause other risks, in compliance with
environmental legislation concerning discharges to atmosphere.
Ventilation by recirculated air should be restricted to areas where temperature control is
required.
Most of the Australian Standards covering individual and mixed class storage and handling
and some of the other documents referenced in Appendix 3 provide detailed instructions on
the provision of ventilation.
Purging
Purging is the method by which any contaminant is displaced from a confined space. The
confined space may be purged, for example with an inert gas such as nitrogen, to clear
flammable gases or vapours before work in the confined space.
After purging with inert gases the confined space should be adequately ventilated, and retested.
The purging of a space should be undertaken in a manner that will not cause rupture or
collapse of the enclosure due to pressure differentials, and the methods employed should
ensure that any contaminant removed from the confined space is exhausted to a location
where it presents no hazard.
Displacement of contaminated air may be temporary. For example, flammable gases absorbed
into the walls of a steel tank may leach out and recreate the flammable atmosphere. Where
flammable contaminants may build up in the confined space, you should consider whether it
would be necessary to re-purge the space. Because purging may reduce oxygen levels or there
may be residual contamination, safe entry procedures should be developed and enforced.
These may require atmospheric sampling and monitoring or the use of breathing protection.
You should refer to the Occupational Health and Safety (Confined Spaces) Regulations 1996
in respect of entry to confined spaces. Note that the Confined Spaces Regulations prohibit
pure oxygen or gas mixtures with oxygen in concentration greater than 21 per cent by volume
being used for purging or ventilating a confined space because of the risk of increased
flammability.
19.10 Additional risk control measures for your premises
Introduction
To ensure that you are providing a working environment that is safe and without risks to
health, you should consider these additional controls.
Lighting
You should ensure that:
· adequate natural or artificial lighting is provided to all areas where dangerous goods are
stored or handled, and access ways;
· the only artificial lighting used in a room or space where dangerous goods are stored or
42
handled is electric lighting;
· electric lighting used in a hazardous area meets the provisions of AS 3000;
· internal lighting meets the relevant provisions of AS 1680; and
· emergency exit lighting is provided, if necessary.
Access and egress
Access to the premises
Ensure access to the premises and all work areas by having:
· routes kept clear at all times;
· external access routes kept clear for vehicular access, including emergency vehicles; and
· doors and gates unlocked when they may be required as exit points; and
· outward-opening doors, where appropriate. 21
Access should be readily available to the emergency services authority personnel.
Access to safety equipment
Clear access should be provided at all times to equipment used to contain and clean up
incidents and firefighting equipment.
Provision of safety signs
You should provide safety signs that are readily recognisable, understandable and durable. AS
1319 Safety signs for the occupational environment provides examples of safety signs which
may be applicable.
Many Australian Standards and industry codes of practice provide specific advice on safety
signs that should be displayed in certain circumstances. For example AS/NZS 1596Storage
and handling of LP Gas contains specific advice on safety signs to be displayed at an
automotive dispensing installation.
Safety signs should be:
· in formats (written or pictorial) that take into account the cultural diversity of the intended
audience;
· visible against background structures; and
· easily interpreted in the conditions that may prevail, such as low light.
21 The Building Code of Australia stipulates that required exit doors must open outwards, with an opening
device that opens with a single action.
43
Types of Signs Examples
Regulatory signs
WARNING – RESTRICTED AREA
AUTHORISED PERSONNEL ONLY
SELF SERVE NOT PERMITTED
Hazard warning signs
FLAMMABLE GAS
Precautionary signs
HIGH PRESSURE OUTLET
NO SMOKING – STOP ENGINE
ATTACH EARTH CLIP BEFORE
PUMPING
Emergency information signs
EMERGENCY STOP BUTTON
Figure 5: Examples of common types of safety signs
20. Controlling risk at specialised facilities and operations
20.1 Transit storage
The term transit storage refers to short term storage at a location where dangerous goods are
held while they are awaiting:
· loading for dispatch after their removal from storage areas;
· being placed in storage after receipt and unloading; or
· transfer within a premises for a specific purpose such as manufacturing.
Port areas are facilities where the transit storage of dangerous goods would comprise the
major proportion of the storage and handling activities at the premises. AS 3846 The handling
and transport of dangerous cargoes in port areas provides advice for port areas.
Transit storage locations can present a particular risk as they interface between transport and
storage activities and they may contain dangerous goods with widely varying hazards.
The quantities of dangerous goods in a transit storage location and the duration of that storage
should be kept to a minimum commensurate with efficient operation but must not be kept at
the premises for more than 5 consecutive days.
44
You should ensure that an incident occurring in a transit storage location is not likely to
adversely affect the permanent storage or process areas or any other operations. Therefore,
transit storage locations should be provided with controls appropriate to the type and quantity
of goods stored, including:
· appropriate segregation of the dangerous goods in the area;
· equipment for containment and clean-up of spills and leakages and emergency response;
and
· PPE for personnel in the area.
20.2 Transport storage areas
‘Transport storage areas’ are areas at premises where dangerous goods in transit may be
stored while awaiting further transport. They may also be areas where dangerous goods that
have been kept in permanent storage areas are assembled into transport loads and kept there
while awaiting dispatch. Transport storage areas are also areas that provide for the short term
handling of dangerous goods either prior to transport or prior to relocation into more
permanent storage within a premises. They include:
· locations inside a building (for example, at a transport depot) where packages or
intermediate bulk containers are held awaiting loading;
· external areas where loaded freight or tank containers are held awaiting further transport;
and
· areas where loaded vehicles – including trailers and rail wagons – are held in transit.
Types of premises that would make provision for transport storage areas would include ports,
rail yards and road transport depots.
Transport storage areas are not intended to substitute for more permanent storages of
dangerous goods. The quantity of dangerous goods stored in such areas should be minimised
to the quantity necessary to receive or dispatch dangerous goods in an efficient manner.
Control measures for transport storage areas
Ensure that:
· the length of time that dangerous goods are held does not exceed five consecutive working
days;
· all dangerous goods that are assembled in loads ready for transport are packaged or
contained, marked, stowed, secured, placarded, segregated and documented according to
the ADG Code;
· incompatible dangerous goods are segregated according to particular transport mode in the
ADG Code;
· dangerous goods are kept apart from foodstuffs (including stock feed), so as to avoid any
potential contamination;
· ignition sources are controlled;
· provision is made for dealing with spills; and
· appropriate fire protection is provided.
45
Placarding for transport storage areas
Transport storage areas often encounter regular variation in the types of dangerous goods
held. It may be more convenient to use frames for slip-in/slip-out labels that are commonly
used on vehicles for the transport of dangerous goods.
20.3 Cylinders for gases
Where Class 2 dangerous goods are stored and handled in cylinders, you should comply with
the relevant parts of AS 4332 The storage and handling of gases in cylinders.
In addition to the provisions of AS 4332, you should ensure that:
· any cap provided for use with the cylinder is kept in place on the cylinder at all times when
the cylinder is not connected for use; and
· unless the container is connected by permanent piping to a consuming device, the valve of
the container is kept securely closed at all times.
Appendix 6 provides further guidance on storing and handling particular dangerous goods.
21. Preparing a manifest and plan of the premises
21.1 Manifest
You must ensure that a manifest is prepared when the quantity of dangerous goods exceeds
the quantities listed in the “Manifest Quantity” column in Schedule 2 of the Regulations.
The principal purpose of the manifest is to provide the emergency services authority with
information on the quantity, type and location of dangerous goods stored and handled on the
premises, to enable them to respond appropriately if called to an incident.
The manifest must be kept on the premises in a place that is easily accessible to the
emergency services authority. It should be located near the Outer Warning Placard at the front
of the premises, unless otherwise agreed with the emergency services authority. It should be
housed in a holder of substantial weatherproof construction.
The manifest must include the following information:
(i) the name of the occupier of the premises;
(ii) the address of the premises;
(iii) the date when the manifest was prepared or last amended;
(iv) contact information for at least 2 people who may be contacted in the event of an
incident;
(v) a summary list of the Classes and Packing Groups (if any) of the dangerous goods at the
premises;
(vi) information about dangerous goods stored in bulk in other than IBCs;
(vii) information about packaged dangerous goods in IBCs;
(viii) information about dangerous goods in manufacture;
(ix) dangerous goods in transit; and
(x) a plan of the premises.
46
The manifest must be revised when there is a change in any of the above information.
Dangerous goods in transit
If the dangerous goods are in transit, and there are dangerous goods shipping documents that
comply with the ADG Code available for the goods, the information required by items (v),
(vi) and (vii) above may be provided in the form of a compilation of those shipping
documents. However, MSDS should be used if they are available.
A sample manifest is provided at Appendix 8 of this Code of Practice.
21.2 Plan of the premises
The purpose of the plan of the premises is to identify the places, buildings and structures on
the site where dangerous goods are stored and handled. It should be easy for emergency
services authority personnel to read.
The plan of the premises should be on a scale that adequately illustrates the details required
by the Regulations. The following information is required:
· locations and identification number or code of:
- bulk containers and bulk storages; and
- storage areas for packaged dangerous goods and dangerous goods in IBCs; and
- areas where dangerous goods are manufactured; and
- areas where dangerous goods in transit may be located
· legend for the identification numbers and codes for the above areas; and
· main entrance and other entry points to the premises; and
· location of essential site services including fire services and isolation points for fuel and
power; and
· location of the manifest for the premises; and
· location of all drains on the site; and
· nature of the occupancy on adjoining sites or premises.
In addition, the following information may be relevant:
· the location of all buildings, amenities, structures and internal roadways on the premises
and their uses;
· areas of public access adjacent to the site and parking (if any);
· public street names adjacent to the premises and evacuation routes; and
· nature of fences (if any).
A sample plan is found at Figure 7.
47
Car Repair Shop
Office
and
Amenities
Entry
Emergency
Gate
Garage
and
Workshop
Main
Gate
Package
Store
PS2
Class
6.1
PS3
Class 3
PS4
Class 8
Power
Isolation
Manifest
DGT1
DGT3
Empty
Pallets
DGT4
PS1
Class 4.1
Fire
Hydrant
Fire
Hydrant
Drain
Intercept
Stormwater Grates
MA3
Class 3 & 8
MA1
Class 3
MA2
Class 5.1
Sub Risk 8
Factory
Boundary -Chain Wire Fence
Boundary -Chain Wire Fence Vacant Land
Boundary -Furniture Factory
Francis Street
North
Emergency
Gate
Car
Park
DGT2
Scale 0 10 20 30 40 50 metres
Figure 7: Sample plan of a premises
48
22. Placarding
Placards provide visual warning of the hazards associated with the dangerous goods at the
premises. You must ensure that your premises are placarded if dangerous goods are stored in
bulk or in a quantity that exceeds the quantity specified in the column headed “Placarding
Quantity” in Schedule 2 of the Regulations, unless they:
· are in an IBC or bulk container intended for transport and marked in accordance with the
ADG Code; or
· are C1 combustible liquids in a quantity not exceeding 10,000 litres; or
· are dangerous goods of Class 2.1 or 3 or C1 combustible liquids and are stored in an
underground tank at a retail outlet where the goods are used to refuel vehicles.
Placards that were provided to comply with the Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling)
Regulations 1989 may continue to be used until such time as they have become illegible or
need to be replaced. Replacement placards must comply fully with the new Regulations.
Placards must be kept legible and unobstructed.
Types of placards
(a) Placards for bulk dangerous goods
Placards for bulk storage of dangerous goods are essentially the same as the full size
Emergency Information Panel required by the ADG Code for bulk transport, with the
emergency contact details removed.
The placard must be located on or adjacent to the bulk storage, unless otherwise agreed in
writing by the emergency services authority.
50 50
AMMONIA,
ANHYDROUS
100
UN No.1005
100
HAZCHEM 2RE 2
TOXIC
GAS
CORROSIVE
Figure 8: Sample of a placard for bulk dangerous goods
49
Dangerous goods
and/or
C1 combustible
liquids in bulk
other than IBCs
Yes
Yes
Are dangerous goods
or C1combustible
liquids:
· Class 2.1 or 3 in
underground
tanks at a service
station?
· in portable bulk
containers
marked for
transport?
No
No
Placard for
dangerous goods
in bulk required
as per
Schedule 4 of the
Regulations
Yes
Bulk placarding not
required
Figure 9: Flow diagram – placarding requirements for dangerous goods in bulk
(b) Placards for packaged dangerous goods
Storage and handling areas for packaged dangerous goods must be placarded if the quantity in
the area exceeds the quantity specified in the column headed “Placarding Quantity” in
Schedule 2.
Figure 10: Sample of a placard for a dangerous goods stored in packages
The class and/or mixed class labels required by the Regulations should be grouped together.
The class labels need not, however be placed in the one horizontal line on a shared sign as
illustrated in Schedule 4 of the Regulations, provided they are clearly visible against a
contrasting background. Vertical or diagonal grouping is equally acceptable.
100 mm
50
For those storage and handling areas where there is regular variation in the types of dangerous
goods (for example, in transit storage locations and transport storage areas), it may be more
convenient to use frames for slip-in/slip-out labels that are commonly used on vehicles for the
transport of dangerous goods.
(c) Outer warning placards
A ‘HAZCHEM’ Outer Warning Placard is required if the quantity of dangerous goods stored
or handled at the premises exceeds the “Placarding Quantity” in Schedule 2.
Outer Warning Placards must be displayed at all road and rail entrances to the premises. For
schools and farms, placards must be displayed at the main road entrance.
If the premises consist of a building set back from the street such that placarding at the street
entrance would be neither effective nor practical, Outer Warning Placards should be displayed
at each entrance to the building that may be used by the emergency services. However, you
must have the written agreement of the emergency services authority to do so.
120 mm HAZCHEM 100 mm
lettering
L
Figure 11: Form and dimensions of an Outer Warning Placard
Aggregate quantity of
dangerous goods exceeds
Schedule 2 “Placarding
Quantity”
Yes
No
Quantity of
C1 combustible liquid
at premises where no
dangerous goods are stored and
handled exceeds
· 10,000 L in bulk; or
· 50,000 L in packages
Yes
HAZCHEM
outer warning
placard
required
Figure 12: Flow diagram – requirement for outer placarding
51
23. Fire Protection
You must ensure that the premises are provided with fire protection and fire fighting
equipment that:
· is designed and constructed for the types and quantities of dangerous goods and the
conditions under which they are stored and handled; and
· uses fighting media that are compatible with the dangerous goods and effective in the
control of incidents involving the types and quantities of dangerous goods.
23.1 Fire protection systems
While the Building Code of Australia specifies minimum requirements for fire protection,
additional fire protection will usually be required for premises where dangerous goods are
stored and handled.
The design and construction of the fire protection for each area in which dangerous goods are
stored and handled and for the premises as a whole, should take account of the relevant
Australian Standards and industry codes of practice listed in Appendix 3.
Premises exceeding the “fire protection threshold”
If a quantity of dangerous goods held at your premises exceeds that specified in the column
headed “Fire Protection Quantity” in Schedule 2, and you intend to establish a fire protection
system, you must request the written advice of the emergency services authority in relation to
the design of the system. You must have regard to that written advice when establishing the
system.
You are also required to request the written advice of the emergency services authority in
relation to the design of the system, and have regard to that written advice if you intend to
make modifications to:
· the buildings or structures on the premises; or
· the types or quantities of dangerous goods stored or handled at the premises; or
· plant or processes associated with the storage or handling of dangerous goods on the
premises; or
· the fire protection system.
Designing the fire protection system
Fire protection system design should take account of:
· the chemical and physical properties of the dangerous goods;
· the total fire load of the area being protected;
· particular hazards of the dangerous goods and the quantities being stored and handled;
· the location, design, type of construction and total floor area of the building or storage and
handling area;
· the type of operations in the building or storage and handling area, with particular attention
to the:
52
- extent of the containment of dangerous goods provided;
- how the dangerous goods are stored and handled (chemical and physical processes and
transport systems); and
- storage configuration, height and density;
· the impact of hazards external to the storage and handling area, including beyond the
boundaries of the premises;
· the personnel available to operate the system and their capability;
· the need to protect external facilities;
· all relevant environmental considerations; and
· the need for the fire protection system to remain in operational condition itself in the event
of a fire.
Compatibility of the fire protection system with dangerous goods
Fire fighting media (such as water, foam or dry agent) must be compatible with the dangerous
goods. For example, sprinklers and water based extinguishers should not be used with
dangerous goods of Class 4.3 – Dangerous When Wet.
Water supply
The water supply should be sufficient to supply both the fire protection equipment at the
premises and any additional equipment used to control a fire at the premises by the emergency
services authority.
Where sufficient supply is not available from the main water supply, it may be necessary to
supplement this with additional water storage and/or pumps or, where permitted by the
appropriate regulatory authorities, by drawing fire service water from alternative sources such
as rivers or dams.22
The adequacy of the water supply should be checked with the emergency services authority.
Specific guidance is provided in AS 1940 and AS 2419.
Booster systems may need to be installed to provide sufficient pressure for large-scale
firefighting. This may require:
· installation of fixed or portable pumping equipment; or
· an appropriate number of booster connections and feed hydrants, together with an
approved hard standing area for emergency services authority pumping equipment.
Fire alarm systems
Fire alarm systems should be designed in accordance with AS 1670 and AS 1603.5, and
installed so that:
· automatic systems are also capable of being manually activated at clearly identified manual
alarm call points at convenient and safe locations near work areas;
22 If other than town water is used as a fire water supply, the cleanliness and the corrosive properties of the
water need to be taken into account. A dirty or corrosive water supply may block or damage pumping
equipment, distribution pipework, nozzles and sprinkler heads.
53
· the alarm signal is sufficiently distinguishable from any other signals to permit ready
recognition, and clearly audible throughout the storage installation;
· where high noise levels or the use of protective clothing may prevent the recognition of an
alarm signal, an effective alternative alarm system is also installed, such as a visual system;
and
· the system remains operable when the main power supply fails.
Alarm systems for larger dangerous goods storage and handling installations should be
directly linked to the emergency services authority.
23.2 Fire fighting equipment
All fire protection and detection equipment should comply with the appropriate Australian
Standards listed in Appendix 3.
Compatibility with equipment used by the emergency services authority
Fire fighting equipment at the premises must be capable of being used, without adaptation or
modification, with the equipment used by the emergency service authority. Ensure that:
· the pressure rating of fire mains and associated equipment is consistent with the pressures
that may be imposed by the connection of the emergency services authority's equipment;
· fire fighting foam or any special fire protection medium, if used, is compatible with the fire
fighting media used by the emergency services authority.
The design and selection of coupling and the selection of fire fighting media should be carried
out in consultation with the emergency services authority.
Location of firefighting equipment
Firefighting equipment should be located so that:
· all dangerous goods and other items being protected can be directly reached by the
firefighting medium, with particular attention to high rack storage;
· it is readily accessible in the event of an incident, preferably adjacent to exit doors or on
exit routes; and
· it is in a conspicuous position.
Identification of firefighting equipment
All firefighting equipment should be suitably labelled in accordance with the relevant
Australian Standards.
Where necessary to assist with the identification of firefighting equipment, additional signs
complying with AS 1319 Safety signs for the occupational environment should be installed.
54
Requirements for specific equipment
(a) Fire hose reels
Fire hose reels should comply with AS 1221 and be installed to AS 2441, the requirements of
the relevant emergency services authority and the Building Code of Australia.
Hose reel systems should be located:
· as required by the relevant emergency services authority;
· on every storey of a building used to store and handle dangerous goods where the total
floor area exceeds 300 m2;
· so that every location in the building can be reached by at least one hose, allowing for all
obstacles; and
· so that it is possible to reach all installations, including to the top of rack storage.
Hose reels should be provided with:
· a minimum hose length of 36 m;
· conspicuous signage; and
· protection by a cabinet or other suitable means, if the hose reel is installed in an
environment where it may be damaged.
Where foam hose reels are installed, they should be capable of producing foam to the
manufacturer’s specifications, suitable for the risks involved. A hose reel that is equipped
with foam making capabilities should be identified by conspicuous signage.
Hydrant hose systems may be substituted for fire hose reels.
(b) Fire hydrants
The hose connection points for fire hydrants must have fittings that allow connection to the
emergency services authority's mobile appliances without the need to use adaptors.
Guidance for the selection, installation and location of fire hydrants for use on premises where
dangerous goods are stored and handled can be found in AS 2419. For premises storing or
handling flammable and combustible liquids, detailed guidance is included in AS 1940.
Further advice may be obtained from the relevant emergency services authority.
Hydrants should be equipped with hose, branch and nozzle except where it is not appropriate
and prudent to do so, for example, where they are susceptible to theft or there are no
personnel properly trained to operate them.
External hydrants should be:
· positioned convenient to but a safe distance from exit doors;
· easily visible, with appropriate identification signs; and
· capable of providing the appropriate coverage.
55
(c) Monitors
The installation of monitors may be appropriate where fire control requires the direction of
large quantities of fire or cooling water at a fixed installation, with minimum exposure of
firefighters.
Monitors should normally be installed in consultation with the emergency services authority.
The following matters should be taken into account when determining the specification of the
monitors and their location:
· the design water flow capacity. An allowance of 50% over any calculated capacity should
be provided to take account of adverse wind conditions;
· the type of nozzle that should be provided – fixed or variable pattern and whether it can
supply foam as well as water;
· the location of the monitor relative to the installation being protected;
· the anticipated heat flux at the monitor location. In situations where the heat flux is likely
to exceed 2 kW/m2 the provision of radiant heat protection for personnel operating the
monitor should be considered.
Monitors should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and would
normally be located 15-30 metres from the facility to be protected. If monitors are required to
be closer to the facility, or where the expected heat flux may exceed the need for radiant heat,
protection for personnel at the premises should be taken into account. This would normally
necessitate remote control. The emergency services authority is able to provide advice on the
heat flux levels that should be used in determining the placement and operating parameters for
any monitors.
(d) Automatic sprinkler systems
Where fire sprinkler systems are required, they should normally be installed in accordance
with AS 2118.
Where foam systems are required, advice may be obtained from potential suppliers and the
relevant emergency services authority. If necessary, refer to the codes such issued by the
National Fire Protection Association (USA) and other specific guidance.
(e) Portable fire extinguishers
You should select fire extinguishers that are suitable for the fire risk involved, in compliance
with the appropriate Australian Standard as listed in Appendix 3.
Fire extinguishers should be located, identified and protected so they are:
· clearly visible, unobstructed and readily available to the relevant risk; and
· not adversely affected by hazardous or climatic conditions.
AS 2444 provides guidance on the location and identification of portable fire extinguishers.
Where powder-type and foam extinguishers are likely to be used together in an emergency,
56
they should be compatible.
Portable fire extinguishers for special risks
· Foam extinguishers should be suitable for the particular dangerous goods. For example, alcoholcompatible
foam should be used for alcohols and other polar (water miscible) solvents.
· Carbon dioxide extinguishers may protect electrical equipment and will minimise clean up and limit
damage to the equipment, but have a poor ‘knock down’ short discharge range, and may be ineffective
where there is significant air movement. Dry powder or vaporising liquid may be more effective.
· Carbon dioxide and acidic extinguishers such as those based on ammonium phosphate should not be used
where there are cyanides present.
· Carbon dioxide should not be used on fires involving magnesium or titanium metals.
Responding to failure of the fire protection system
You must ensure that in the event that any of the components of the fire protection or fire
fighting equipment are rendered inoperative:
· action is taken to return the fire protection and fire fighting equipment to full operation;
· the implications of the equipment becoming unserviceable or inoperative are assessed; and
· alternative measures are taken to control, to the same level of effectiveness, those risks that
were controlled when the equipment was functioning fully.
Fire protection systems and equipment should be inspected and tested at regular intervals to
ensure that it is fully operational at all times. Refer to AS 1851 for guidance on testing and
inspection.
If any of the components of the fire protection system or equipment fail, you must:
· assess the implications of the failure;
· correct the faults and bring the system back to full operation; and
· control risks through alternative measures.
In the simple case of a fire extinguisher, this may involve having the extinguisher serviced or
replaced. For more complex fixed fire protection systems, making the system fully
operational may take time.
Alternative control measures may include:
· ceasing all or part of the operations in the areas affected by the failure if the risk is high;
· providing temporary fire protection systems or equipment until repairs are completed;
· notifying the emergency services authority to obtain advice.
Maintenance of fire protection equipment
All fire protection equipment should be maintained in accordance with the various parts of AS
1851 Maintenance of fire protection equipment.
57
24. Emergency preparedness
If you have dangerous goods at your premises in quantities exceeding the “Manifest Quantity”
column in Schedule 2 of the Regulations, you must develop a written emergency plan.
24.1 Emergency plans
Purpose and scope
The purpose of the emergency plan is to minimise the effects of any emergency that occurs at
premises where larger quantities of dangerous goods are stored and handled.23
The emergency plan should be capable of dealing with the worst-case credible scenario.
However, detailed planning should concentrate on the more likely events. The emergency
plan should also be sufficiently flexible to ensure that an emergency response can be varied
according to the severity and type of dangerous occurrence or near miss.
Content
The emergency plan should include the following matters:
Site and
Hazard Detail
1 Name, location, address and nature of operations
2 Detailed map of the facility and surrounding area
3 Inventory of Schedule 2 materials
4 Maximum/minimum number of persons expected at the facility
5 Infrastructure likely to be affected by an incident
6 Emergency planning assumptions
7 Description of measures to control the consequence of each hazard and
major incident
Command
Structure and
Personnel
8 Details of emergency contact personnel
9 Allocation of personnel for implementing the plan
10 Arrangements for “mutual aid” between adjacent facilities
Notifications 11 Procedures for providing early warning of an incident
12 Details of on-site and off-site warning systems
13 Contact details for the emergency services
14 Details of on-site communications systems
Resources 15 Details of emergency resources on-site
16 Arrangement for obtaining additional external resources
Procedures 17 Procedures for safe evacuation and muster of personnel
18 Details of control points and procedures for essential services
19 Procedures for containment of any incident
20 Procedures for decontamination following an incident
23 “Emergency” means an event that exposes a person or property in the vicinity of the event to an
immediate risk through —
(a) an explosion, fire, harmful reaction or the evolution of flammable, corrosive or toxic vapours
involving dangerous goods; or
(b) the escape, spillage or leakage of any dangerous goods.
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Development and consultation
In developing the emergency plan, you must request the written advice of the emergency
services authority and have regard to that written advice.
If an emergency may impact beyond the perimeter of your premises, you should also consult
with people in control of adjacent premises and the local counter-disaster organisation. Note:
if you are required to develop an emergency plan, you will also be required to notify
WorkCover in writing that the premises contains quantities of dangerous goods that exceed
the “Manifest Quantity”.
You may also be required to consult with other authorities responsible for the environment
and planning as well as local government, to ensure consistency with legislation and
emergency planning, for example, State Emergency Disaster Plans (‘DISPLANS’).
Implementing, communicating and maintaining the plan
The contents of emergency plans must be communicated to all people who may be exposed to
a risk as a result of an emergency, including:
· employees;
· contractors and sub-contractors; and
· people in control of adjacent premises.
The emergency plan should be tested when first devised, after each modification and at
regular intervals. Simulated emergencies and other exercises should systematically attempt to
involve all people likely to be involved in a dangerous occurrence or near miss. These
exercises should include practical drills.
Emergency plans must be updated whenever:
· there is a change of circumstances on or off the premises;
· updated information becomes available;
· a deficiency in the plan is identified.
Accessibility
The emergency plan should be in a readily accessible and understandable form. This could be
either a hard copy or in a computer format.
The location of the emergency plan should be well known to supervisors and employees and
discussed with the emergency services authority whenever there is a review or update.
It is recommended that a copy be made available to the emergency services authority.
24.2 Emergency procedures
Emergency procedures should cover all foreseeable emergencies such as fire, spillage of
dangerous goods, vapour release and uncontrolled reaction as well as external risks to
dangerous goods.
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Many effective emergency procedures are simple one-page documents in point form, suitable
for display on signs or carrying as a pocket card. Emergency procedures will vary depending
on the requirements of the premises, but should contain as a minimum:
· the means of raising the alarm;
· contact details of the emergency services authority and/or EPA; and
· actions to be taken by employees in an emergency.
A sample emergency procedures pocket card can be found at Appendix 9.
24.3 Emergency equipment
Equipment required to contain and clean up escapes, spills or leaks of dangerous goods must
be kept on the premises and be accessible at all times. The equipment will vary with the types
and quantities of dangerous goods. Examples include:
· overpacks such as oversized drums for containing leaking containers;
· absorbent material suitable for the substances likely to be spilled;
· booms, plates and/or flexible sheeting for preventing spillage from entering drains and
waterways;
· neutralising agents such as lime or soda ash;
· suitable pumps and hoses for removal of spilled material;
· hand tools such as mops, buckets, squeegees and bins; and
· suitable PPE.
You should establish a procedure for the regular maintenance of emergency equipment to
ensure that the equipment is in serviceable condition.
25. Responding to an emergency
You must respond to any emergency by ensuring that immediate action is taken to assess and
control any risk associated with the emergency.
Only people who are essential to the tasks of assessing and controlling the risk associated
with the emergency are permitted to remain in the vicinity of the emergency. Your emergency
procedures should specify those essential personnel.
Investigating incidents
You must investigate all incidents.24 These include dangerous occurrences – commonly
referred to as “near misses” – which could have exposed people or property to a risk.
The investigation of incidents should be an integral part of the system for managing safety at
the premises. The aim should be to ensure that incidents are prevented in the future.
24 “Incident”means –
(a) an emergency; or
(b) an unintended event that, but for the intervention of a risk control measure or human intervention, is
likely to have resulted in an emergency.
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The investigation must determine the cause or likely cause of the incident that has occurred at
the premises. Further, the risk assessment must be reviewed having regard to the results of the
investigation, and risk control measures revised accordingly.
The system for investigating incidents should:
· be prepared in consultation with employees and any health and safety representatives;
· be documented so that it is readily understood by people who may be affected; and
· inform supervisors, employees, health and safety representatives and other relevant people
of the results of the investigation.
Recording incident investigations
You must make a record of the incident investigation and keep it for at least five years. The
record must be readily available to WorkCover.
The following should be considered in recording a dangerous occurrence:
· Were the on-site or off-site emergency plans activated?
· Did the leak or spill have the potential to cause fire, explosion or release of toxic or
corrosive materials?
· Did the leak or spill have the potential to cause any of the following effects:
- acute or chronic human health effects?
- environmental harm?
- damage to property?
· Would the leak or spill affect the quantity or quality of effluent discharged into sewers?
· Did the leak or spill need to be reported to the Environment Protection Authority under a
site-leak or spill-reporting plan?
26. Security of the premises
You must, so far as is practicable, prevent access to the premises by unauthorised people.
Examples of security measures, depending on the size and hazards of the particular premises,
are:
· fencing or enclosure of areas where the dangerous goods are kept;
· locks on doors, windows and other openings to buildings, rooms, compartments or
containers in which dangerous goods are kept;
· supervision of areas where the dangerous goods are kept; and
· security checks on all vehicles entering or leaving the premises.
A system to control access of all people to the premises should include:
· the means to identify the extent of access for each person;
· the means to account for all people on site at any given time, for example, by the use of a
logbook; and
· security measures for visitors.
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When developing security systems and procedures, you should consider:
· the nature of the hazards and the levels of risk;
· the likelihood of sabotage;
· the integrity and reliability of the security system hardware and design; and
· the back-up support for security systems and personnel.
People engaged to work at the premises should be trained to ensure that they understand the
security measures and security signs provided.
27. Visitors to your premises
The activities of visitors may lead to increased risk for themselves and other people on the
premises. You must guard against this by providing appropriate information, instruction and
supervision.
Ensure that visitors are properly informed about:
· the hazards to which they may be exposed while on the premises;
· appropriate safety measures to be applied while on the premises; and
· what actions to take if any emergency occurs while they are on premises.
The need for a formal system of providing safety information, such as a briefing or written
safety information will depend on a number of factors including the:
· nature and severity of hazards on the premises;
· extent of the premises and the degree of access provided; and
· degree of supervision to be provided.
In some high-risk situations, it may be necessary to verify through assessment whether
visitors have a satisfactory understanding of the safety information.
You must also provide appropriate supervision. Consider keeping visitors under constant
supervision or at least under observation.
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28. Induction, information, training and supervision
You must provide appropriate induction, information, training and supervision to all people
involved with the storage and handing of dangerous goods.
Induction, information and training provide employees with the skills and knowledge they
need to perform their jobs safely. It should help them to understand:
· the hazards and risks associated with the storage and handling of dangerous goods;
· how to follow health and safety procedures;
· the reasons risk controls have been set in place and how to use them; and
· emergency plans.
28.1 Training
Who should be trained?
You must provide induction, information and training to any person on the premises who is
likely to be affected by the dangerous goods. This includes:
· your employees and their health and safety representatives, if any; and
· any contractors you have engaged to work on the premises.
Employees supervising other employees who use dangerous goods should also receive
training.
When developing and providing training programmes, you should consider any special needs
the employees being trained may have, such as specific skills, work experience, physical or
intellectual disability, first language, literacy and age.
Consider using oral or visual training methods, or conducting training where appropriate in
languages other than English. Refer to the Code of Practice for Provision of Occupational
Health and Safety Information in Languages other than English for guidance on training in
multilingual workplaces.
Outcomes of training
The required outcomes of training for employees and other personnel on the premises include
the ability to demonstrate an understanding of:
· safe work practices relating to the storage and handling of dangerous goods that are being
used in the workplace;
· how to locate an MSDS, and use the information;
· the nature of the hazards and risks associated with the duties being performed;
· measures used to control risk;
· proper use of PPE;
· emergency procedures; and
· first aid and incident reporting procedures to be followed in case of injury or illness.
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Review of training
To ensure that training remains effective, you should regularly review the training provided to
identify the need for further training. Further training should be provided when:
· new dangerous goods are introduced to the premises;
· there are changes to the layout of the workplace, work practices or control measures for the
dangerous goods; and
· new information on the hazards of the dangerous goods is made available (for example, a
revised MSDS).
You should evaluate information, instruction and training to ensure that the content is clearly
understood by employees. Evaluation could take the form of on-the-job observation.
Refresher training should be provided as required and induction training for all new
employees (and other people engaged to carry out work at the premises) should take place.
Limitations of training
Although training plays an important part in ensuring effective risk control, it is not a risk
control measure in itself. People who are likely to be affected by the dangerous goods at the
premises should be aware of the nature of the risk and the role that specific control measures
play in risk prevention. However, you should not rely on safe worker behaviour alone. High
levels of training and instruction cannot substitute for effective and proper measures to control
the risk.
28.2 Provision of information
Who should receive information?
You must provide appropriate information to all people who may be involved with or affected
by the storage and handling of dangerous goods, including:
· supervisors and employees;
· visitors;
· contractors, including transport drivers; and
· personnel of the emergency services authority.
Appropriate information would include MSDS, labels, safety signs and emergency procedure
guides.
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