ACH - Leaders WHS & IM Handbook

Hazardous Manual Tasks Leaders play a central role in promoting safe manual handling practices in aged care and hospitality environments, where the physical demands of the job can pose significant risks to both staff, customers and residents. Effective leadership fosters a culture of safety by prioritising training, establishing clear protocols and ensuring that resources are available for safe manual handling techniques. By actively engaging with staff, leaders can identify specific challenges and provide tailored support, such as ergonomic assessments and ongoing education. This proactive approach not only minimises the risk of injuries but also enhances the quality of care provided to residents and customers. Ultimately, strong leadership in manual handling practices not only protects employees but also contributes to a safer, more efficient workplace, benefiting everyone involved. Leaders undergo coaching and training to help them effectively promote proper techniques and postures in line with the safe work instructions.

Emergency Plans

In aged care and healthcare settings, being prepared for a variety of emergency scenarios is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, staff and visitors. Emergencies can arise unexpectedly, ranging from Code Black (person with a weapon) to Code Brown (natural disaster) and each requires a tailored response plan. Preparedness not only minimises chaos during these high-stress situations but also enhances the effectiveness of the response, ultimately saving lives and preventing injury. Training staff to recognise different emergency codes and respond appropriately fosters a culture of safety and confidence within the organisation. By prioritising preparedness, aged care organisations can ensure they are ready to act swiftly and decisively, protecting everyone involved and maintaining a secure environment for quality care.

Code Red

Smoke or Fire situation that threatens staff, visitors or property.

Code Blue

Medical Emergency

Select to enlarge.

Bomb or arson threat received by telephone or other means. Examples are written, telephone, suspicious object and mail.

Code Purple

Infrastructure and other internal emergencies that may adversely affect the safety of persons in the building. Examples are Electricity, Medical Gases, Water, ICT Systems, Structural Damage, Hazardous Substances, Chemical Spill, Gas Leak/Toxic Smell.

Code Yellow

Personal Threat armed or unarmed persons threatening injury to themselves or others. Examples are Civil Disorder, Illegal Occupancy, Unarmed Confrontation, Armed Confrontation.

Code Black

External Emergency - An event which arises externally to the building. Examples are Aircraft, Train and Bus Crash, Bushfire, Structural Collapse, Explosions, Natural Disaster.

Code Brown

Evacuation of a section or whole of the building to prevent or reduce injury to staff and visitors.

Code Orange

Desktop scenarios and evacuation exercises will be conducted throughout the year.

Manual Handling Refresher Training

Please take a moment to familiarise yourself with your site’s Emergency Plan, which can be found under Work Instructions in The Library. (online) Fire warden training is completed annually for RNs and designated wardens by Bob May and associates, this can be organised through the WHS Coordinator.

Staff complete refresher training in manual handling every two years.

Hotel Services refresher training is managed by the Hotel Services Team Leader.

Refresher training for Carers is conducted by Pinnacle Workplace Consultants. Contact the WHS Coordinator.

Leaders WHS & IM Handbook

Leaders WHS & IM Handbook

20

21