Safe Working Procedures & why are they necessary?
Safe working procedures are agreed safe ways of doing things. Written procedures usually consist of step-by-step instructions and related information needed to help carry out tasks safely. They may include checklists, decision aids, diagrams, flow-charts and other types of job aids. Procedures are necessary to: • Minimise errors/failures • Standardise working practice • Provide a basis for training • Meet statutory requirements The decision to rely on a procedure to control a risk must always come after reasonable attempts have been taken to remove or reduce the hazard. This should be identified in your risk assessment. Once these hazards and risks have been identified procedures should be drafted for employees to follow. Procedures will be required in respect of all work activities you have indicated you carry out in your ContractorPlus application. Approval will only be given in respect of those activities for which adequate procedures are provided.
