OHS Processes and the Workplace

The purpose of this module is to examine the occupational health and safety (OHS) requirements of the community services sector, and discuss how managers and team leaders can ensure adequate and efficient coordination of the work environment, for example through an understanding of legislative and regulatory requirements, and the appropriate management, orientation and induction of new and existing staff.

In studying OHS issues the focus is on developing an understanding of the OHS structures in Australia, with particular reference to the community sector. The need for adequate implementation, review, evaluation and modification of OHS policies and procedures is also examined.

Students will examine the supervisory and coordinating responsibilities in managing the workplace that you will be expected to undertake as leaders in community service organisations.

Learning Outcomes

• Plan and conduct work safely
• Support others in working safely
• Contribute to OHS participative processes
• Contribute to hazard identification, OHS risk assessment and risk control activities
• Participate in the control of emergency situations

Content Areas

• The Workplace and Legislation in Community Services Organisations
• Employment Practices in Community Services Organisations
• Workplace Planning
• Developing Staff Performance
• Effective Workplace Relations
• Managing Staff Performance
• Workplace Health and Safety
• OHS Practices in the Workplace
• OHS Responsibilities and Reporting
• Emergency Planning and Response
• Workplace Relations
• Managing and Preventing Stress in the Workplace

Module Duration and Workload

This module involves a total of 48 hours per term of study including a course work component, educator contact, research, related study activities, and the completion of assessment tasks. This translates as 4 hours per week for the module.