ISO 45001:2015 Clause 8.1 Operational planning and control

8.1.1 General

The organization shall plan, implement, control and maintain the processes needed to meet requirements of the OH&S management system, and to implement the actions determined in Clause 6, by:
a) establishing criteria for the processes;
b) implementing control of the processes in accordance with the criteria;
c) maintaining and retaining documented information to the extent necessary to have confidence that the processes have been carried out as planned;
d) adapting work to workers.
At multi-employer workplaces, the organization shall coordinate the relevant parts of the OH&S management system with the other organizations.

As per Annex A (Guidance on the use of ISO 45001:2018 standard) of ISO 45001:2018 standard it further explains

Operational planning and control of the processes need to be established and implemented as necessary to enhance occupational health and safety, by eliminating hazards or, if not practicable, by reducing the OH&S risks to levels as low as reasonably practicable for operational areas and activities. Examples of operational control of the processes include:

1. the use of procedures and systems of work;
2. ensuring the competence of workers;
3. establishing preventive or predictive maintenance and inspection programmes;
4. specifications for the procurement of goods and services;
5. application of legal requirements and other requirements, or manufacturers’ instructions for equipment;
6. engineering and administrative controls;
7. adapting work to workers; for example, by:
   • defining, or redefining, how the work is organized;
   • the induction of new workers;
   • defining, or redefining, processes and working environments;
   • using ergonomic approaches when designing new, or modifying, workplaces, equipment, etc.

1) The organization shall plan, implement, control and maintain the processes needed to meet requirements of the OH&S management system

Planning, implementing, controlling, and maintaining processes to meet the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of the system and the organization’s commitment to worker safety. Here’s a breakdown of each element:

1. Planning:
   • Define Objectives: Clearly define the OH&S objectives and targets based on the organization’s policy and applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
   • Hazard Identification: Identify potential hazards, risks, and compliance requirements specific to the organization’s activities and workplace.
   • Risk Assessment: Assess the identified hazards and evaluate the associated risks. Prioritize them based on severity and likelihood.
   • Resource Allocation: Determine the resources (personnel, equipment, finances) required to implement and maintain the OH&S processes effectively.
   • Action Plans: Develop action plans that outline how the organization will achieve its OH&S objectives, including specific tasks, responsibilities, and timelines.
2. Implementation:
   • OH&S Procedures: Develop documented procedures that outline how the organization will address identified hazards, control risks, and respond to incidents.
   • Training: Provide OH&S training to employees and relevant personnel to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities.
   • Emergency Response: Establish procedures and systems for responding to emergencies and incidents promptly and effectively.
   • Communication: Establish clear communication channels for sharing OH&S information, including reporting incidents, sharing safety instructions, and promoting awareness.
   • Documentation: Create and maintain documented information required for the OH&S Management System, including policies, procedures, risk assessments, and records.
   • Operational Controls: Implement controls and measures to mitigate identified risks, such as engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
3. Control:
   • Monitoring and Measurement: Continuously monitor OH&S performance, including the effectiveness of controls and compliance with policies and procedures.
   • Incident Reporting: Establish a system for reporting incidents, near misses, and hazards. Investigate incidents to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
   • Audit and Review: Conduct regular OH&S audits and reviews to ensure compliance with established procedures and standards. Evaluate the effectiveness of the OH&S Management System.
   • Change Management: Implement a change control process to manage changes to OH&S processes, procedures, and documentation.
4. Maintenance:
   • Document Control: Maintain control over documented information, including version control, access control, and retention schedules.
   • Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that safety equipment and systems are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure their effectiveness.
   • Training and Awareness: Continuously provide OH&S training, awareness programs, and updates to keep personnel informed about safety procedures and requirements.
   • Legal Compliance: Keep abreast of changes in OH&S laws and regulations and ensure that the organization remains in compliance.
   • Management Review: Conduct regular management reviews of the OH&S Management System to evaluate its performance, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments.

By following these steps, organizations can establish a robust OH&S Management System that not only meets the requirements of ISO 45001 but also fosters a culture of safety, reduces workplace risks, and protects the well-being of employees and other stakeholders. Regular review and improvement of processes are essential to adapt to changing circumstances and continuously enhance safety performance.

2) The organization must implement the actions determined in Clause 6, by establishing criteria for the processes

Establishing criteria for processes is a fundamental step in ensuring that the processes within the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System are effective, efficient, and aligned with organizational objectives. These criteria provide clear guidelines and standards for each process, helping to measure performance, monitor compliance, and achieve desired outcomes.

1. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment:
   • Purpose: To proactively identify potential sources of harm and evaluate the risks to employee health and safety.
   • Criteria: Criteria for this process may include clear guidelines on how to identify hazards, assess risk severity and likelihood, prioritize risks, and define acceptable risk levels.
   • Process: Systematically identify workplace hazards, assess the associated risks, and prioritize them based on severity and likelihood.
   • Examples: Risk assessment criteria may include a risk matrix with defined risk levels (e.g., low, medium, high), criteria for when risk reduction measures are required, and thresholds for reporting significant risks.
2. Operational Planning:
   • Purpose: To ensure that all operational activities are carried out safely and in accordance with established OH&S policies and procedures.
   • Process: Develop plans and strategies for conducting operations safely. This includes defining procedures, work instructions, and safe work practices.
   • Criteria: Criteria for operational planning should outline what constitutes a well-developed plan, including the use of standardized procedures, safe work practices, and compliance with relevant OH&S regulations.
   • Examples: Criteria may include a checklist for the completeness of an operational plan, specifying that it must include hazard assessments, control measures, emergency response procedures, and training requirements.
3. Emergency Preparedness and Response:
   • Purpose: To protect employees, visitors, and the environment in the event of emergencies and to minimize potential harm.
   • Process: Develop and maintain emergency response plans and procedures to address various emergency scenarios, such as fires, chemical spills, natural disasters, and medical emergencies.
   • Criteria: Criteria for emergency preparedness and response processes should define what constitutes a robust emergency plan, including specific response protocols, communication procedures, and regular testing and training.
   • Examples: Criteria may include requirements for conducting regular emergency drills, specifying response times for different types of emergencies, and ensuring that all employees are trained in emergency response procedures.
4. Operational Controls:
   • Purpose: To reduce or eliminate hazards and manage risks during day-to-day operations.
   • Process: Implement controls and measures to mitigate identified risks. This includes engineering controls, administrative controls, and the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE).
   • Criteria: Criteria for operational controls involve establishing standards for implementing engineering and administrative controls, as well as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
   • Examples: Criteria may include specifications for the maintenance and inspection of safety equipment, requirements for employee training on control measures, and procedures for assessing the effectiveness of controls.
5. Change Management:
   • Purpose: To ensure that changes do not introduce new hazards or compromise existing safety measures.
   • Process: Establish a formal change control process to assess and manage changes to processes, equipment, materials, and procedures that could impact safety.
   • Criteria: Change management criteria should outline the steps required for assessing and managing changes, including criteria for evaluating the potential impact on safety.
   • Examples: Criteria may include requirements for risk assessments before implementing changes, a defined change approval process, and a review of how changes may affect the OH&S Management System.
6. Incident Reporting and Investigation:
   • Purpose: To learn from incidents, prevent their recurrence, and improve safety performance.
   • Process: Develop a system for reporting and investigating incidents, near misses, and hazardous conditions. This includes documenting incidents, conducting root cause analysis, and implementing corrective actions.
   • Criteria: Criteria for incident reporting and investigation processes should define the requirements for reporting incidents, conducting thorough investigations, and implementing corrective actions.
   • Examples: Criteria may include timeframes for reporting incidents, standards for incident investigation reports, and requirements for documenting corrective actions and their effectiveness.
7. Safety Training and Competence:
   • Purpose: To equip employees with the knowledge and skills required to work safely and respond effectively to hazards and emergencies.
   • Process: Provide safety training and ensure that employees have the necessary skills and competence to perform their jobs safely. Training should cover hazard recognition, emergency response, and the proper use of PPE.
   • Criteria: Criteria for safety training and competence should include standards for training content, frequency, and evaluation of employee competence.
   • Examples: Criteria may include specifying the topics that must be covered in safety training, the frequency of refresher training, and criteria for assessing employee competence in using PPE or responding to emergencies.
8. Documented Information Management:
   • Purpose: To ensure that documented information is accurate, accessible, and protected throughout its lifecycle.
   • Process: Establish controls over the creation, approval, distribution, access, retrieval, storage, preservation, and disposition of OH&S-related documented information.
   • Criteria: Criteria for documented information management include standards for document creation, approval, access, retention, and disposal.
   • Examples: Criteria may include requirements for version control, access permissions, document retention periods, and secure disposal methods.
9. Performance Monitoring and Measurement:
   • Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of safety controls and identify areas for improvement.
   • Process: Monitor and measure OH&S performance through key performance indicators (KPIs), safety audits, inspections, and other relevant metrics.
   • Criteria: Criteria for performance monitoring and measurement establish key performance indicators (KPIs), targets, and standards for evaluating OH&S performance.
   • Examples: Criteria may include setting specific targets for reducing incident rates, defining acceptable levels of non-compliance with safety procedures, and establishing frequency requirements for safety audits and inspections.
10. Management Review:
    • Purpose: To ensure that the OH&S management system continues to meet its objectives and to make strategic decisions for improvement.
    • Process: Conduct regular management reviews to evaluate the overall performance of the OH&S Management System, including operational planning and control processes.
    • Criteria: Criteria for management reviews should outline the scope of reviews, including what aspects of the OH&S Management System will be assessed and what data and information will be used.
    • Examples: Criteria may include standards for assessing the effectiveness of controls, evaluating progress toward OH&S objectives, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Establishing clear and measurable criteria for each of these OH&S processes ensures that the organization has defined standards to assess performance, make improvements, and demonstrate compliance with the OH&S Management System requirements. These criteria should be periodically reviewed and updated as needed to adapt to changing circumstances and evolving organizational goals. Establishing criteria for the processes of operational planning and control is essential to ensure that these processes are effective, efficient, and aligned with the objectives of the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System. Here are specific criteria that the organization should consider establishing for these processes:

Operational Planning Criteria:

1. Clear Objectives: Establish clear and measurable OH&S objectives that align with the organization’s policy and take into account relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
2. Hazard Identification: Define criteria for identifying and categorizing workplace hazards, including the criteria for identifying high-risk and low-risk hazards.
3. Risk Assessment: Set criteria for assessing the severity, likelihood, and potential consequences of identified hazards, as well as criteria for prioritizing risks.
4. Safe Work Procedures: Develop and document safe work procedures that meet established criteria, including adherence to legal requirements and industry best practices.
5. Resource Allocation: Establish criteria for allocating resources (financial, human, and technological) to support OH&S objectives and risk reduction efforts.
6. Training and Competence: Define criteria for determining the training needs of employees and contractors, including the competencies required to perform specific tasks safely.
7. Emergency Response Planning: Specify criteria for developing emergency response plans and procedures, including criteria for different types of emergencies (e.g., fire, chemical spill, medical emergency).
8. Performance Indicators: Establish criteria for selecting and monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) related to OH&S, such as incident rates, near-miss reporting, and safety audit results.

Operational Control Criteria:

1. Engineering Controls: Define criteria for the design, installation, and maintenance of engineering controls, such as ventilation systems, machine guarding, and safety barriers.
2. Administrative Controls: Set criteria for the implementation and enforcement of administrative controls, including criteria for the use of signage, access controls, and safe work permits.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Establish criteria for the selection, use, maintenance, and replacement of PPE based on the identified hazards.
4. Change Management: Develop criteria for evaluating proposed changes to processes, equipment, materials, or procedures to assess their impact on safety.
5. Incident Reporting: Define criteria for reporting incidents, near misses, and hazardous conditions, including timeframes and methods of reporting.
6. Incident Investigation: Specify criteria for conducting thorough incident investigations, including the identification of root causes and the development of corrective actions.
7. Training and Competence: Set criteria for employee training and competence, including minimum training hours, topics to be covered, and assessment criteria.
8. Document Control: Establish criteria for the management of documented information, including version control, access permissions, and retention periods.
9. Performance Monitoring: Define criteria for the regular monitoring and measurement of OH&S performance against established KPIs.
10. Management Review: Specify criteria for the scope and frequency of management reviews, including the evaluation of the effectiveness of operational controls.

These criteria should be documented and communicated to relevant personnel within the organization. Regular reviews and updates to these criteria should be conducted to ensure that they remain relevant and effective in supporting the organization’s OH&S objectives and compliance with the OH&S Management System. Additionally, involving employees and stakeholders in the development and review of these criteria can enhance their effectiveness and ownership of the process.

3) The organization must implement the actions determined in Clause 6, by implementing control of the processes in accordance with the criteria

Implementing control of the processes of operational planning and control in accordance with established criteria is vital to ensure that the organization effectively manages occupational health and safety (OH&S) and meets its objectives. Here’s how the organization can implement control for these processes:

Operational Planning Control:

1. Clear Objectives:
   • Implement a process to set clear and measurable OH&S objectives aligned with the established criteria.
   • Monitor progress toward meeting these objectives and review them regularly during management reviews.
2. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment:
   • Develop a structured process for identifying and assessing workplace hazards in alignment with the established criteria.
   • Prioritize risks based on the criteria to focus resources on high-priority hazards.
3. Safe Work Procedures:
   • Ensure that documented safe work procedures are in place for high-risk activities and that they comply with established criteria.
   • Conduct regular audits and assessments to confirm compliance with procedures.
4. Resource Allocation:
   • Allocate resources based on the criteria to support OH&S objectives and risk reduction efforts effectively.
   • Monitor resource utilization to ensure alignment with the established criteria.
5. Training and Competence:
   • Develop training programs that adhere to the established criteria, including content, frequency, and assessment methods.
   • Regularly assess and verify the competence of employees and contractors based on the criteria.
6. Emergency Response Planning:
   • Develop and regularly update emergency response plans and procedures in accordance with the criteria.
   • Conduct drills and exercises to test the effectiveness of emergency response plans.
7. Performance Indicators:
   • Establish a system to monitor and measure KPIs related to OH&S performance, as per the criteria.
   • Regularly review and analyze KPI data to identify trends and areas for improvement.

Operational Control Implementation:

1. Engineering Controls:
   • Ensure that engineering controls are designed, installed, and maintained in accordance with established criteria.
   • Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to verify compliance.
2. Administrative Controls:
   • Implement administrative controls consistently according to established criteria, including access controls and safety procedures.
   • Conduct regular audits to assess compliance with administrative controls.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
   • Provide employees with PPE that meets the established criteria for selection, use, maintenance, and replacement.
   • Train employees on proper PPE usage and conduct inspections to ensure compliance.
4. Change Management:
   • Establish a formal change control process that follows the criteria for assessing and managing changes to processes, equipment, and procedures.
   • Ensure that changes undergo a thorough evaluation for safety implications.
5. Incident Reporting:
   • Implement a clear and accessible incident reporting system that aligns with the criteria for reporting incidents, near misses, and hazardous conditions.
   • Encourage a culture of reporting and timely reporting based on established criteria.
6. Incident Investigation:
   • Follow the established criteria for conducting incident investigations, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
   • Ensure that corrective actions are implemented and monitored to prevent recurrence.
7. Training and Competence:
   • Deliver training programs that meet the established criteria, including content, frequency, and assessment methods.
   • Maintain records of training and competence assessments in alignment with the criteria.
8. Document Control:
   • Manage documented information according to the established criteria for version control, access permissions, and retention periods.
   • Conduct regular audits to confirm compliance with document control criteria.
9. Performance Monitoring:
   • Monitor and measure OH&S performance in alignment with the established criteria and KPIs.
   • Review performance data regularly to identify opportunities for improvement.
10. Management Review:
    • Conduct management reviews at scheduled intervals to assess the effectiveness of operational controls and alignment with criteria.
    • Use review outcomes to make informed decisions and improvements.

By implementing control measures based on established criteria for operational planning and control, the organization can effectively manage OH&S risks, improve safety performance, and work toward achieving its OH&S objectives while complying with the OH&S Management System. Regular monitoring and continuous improvement are essential components of this control process.

4) The organization must implement the actions determined in Clause 6, by maintaining and retaining documented information to the extent necessary to have confidence that the processes have been carried out as planned

To have confidence that the processes of operational planning and control have been carried out as planned and to demonstrate compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System, specific documented information is necessary. These documents provide evidence of the organization’s efforts to plan, implement, and control operations safely. Here is a list of key documented information required for this purpose:

1. Operational Plans: Documents that outline the planned approach to conducting operations safely. This should include details on hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures, resource allocation, and specific work procedures.
2. Safe Work Procedures: Detailed procedures and work instructions that describe how specific tasks or activities are to be carried out safely. These procedures should align with the operational plans and established criteria.
3. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment Records: Records of hazard identification, risk assessments, and prioritization of risks based on established criteria. These records demonstrate that risks have been considered and appropriate controls implemented.
4. Emergency Response Plans: Comprehensive plans and procedures for responding to various emergency scenarios, such as fires, chemical spills, natural disasters, and medical emergencies.
5. Change Management Records: Documentation of changes to processes, equipment, materials, or procedures that could impact safety. This includes change requests, assessments, approvals, and implementation plans.
6. Training Records: Records of OH&S training programs, including attendance records, training content, and assessments of employee competence in alignment with established criteria.
7. Incident Reports: Records of incidents, accidents, near misses, and hazardous conditions, along with incident investigation reports, root cause analyses, and corrective action plans related to operational activities.
8. Performance Monitoring and Measurement Records: Data and records related to key performance indicators (KPIs) and safety metrics specific to operational planning and control processes.
9. Documentation of Controls: Records of the implementation of engineering controls, administrative controls, and the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with criteria and standards.
10. Resource Allocation Records: Documentation demonstrating how resources, including financial, human, and technological resources, were allocated to support OH&S objectives and risk reduction efforts.
11. Audit and Inspection Reports: Records of OH&S audits, inspections, and assessments related to operational planning and control, including findings, recommendations, and actions taken in response to audit results.
12. Documentation of Performance Reviews: Records of performance reviews related to operational planning and control processes, including minutes of meetings, decisions made, and action plans.
13. Document Control Records: Documentation of the control of documented information related to operational planning and control processes, including version control, access permissions, and records of changes made to documents.
14. Evidence of Compliance: Documentation demonstrating compliance with OH&S requirements, such as legal and regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal policies, related to operational planning and control.
15. Records of Communication: Documentation of internal and external communication related to operational planning and control, including records of meetings, notifications, and safety bulletins.
16. Records of Worker Consultation: Records of meetings and consultations with workers and their representatives specifically regarding operational planning and control activities.
17. Records of Corrective and Preventive Actions: Documentation of actions taken to address identified non-conformities, incidents, and opportunities for improvement within the operational planning and control processes.

These documented information records serve as evidence of the organization’s commitment to safety in operational activities, the effectiveness of its planning and control measures, and its compliance with OH&S requirements. They provide a historical record of OH&S activities related to operational planning and control, enabling the organization to assess performance, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate compliance when needed.

5) The organization must implement the actions determined in Clause 6, by adapting work to workers

Adapting work to workers, often referred to as “workplace ergonomics” or “ergonomic design,” is a critical principle in occupational health and safety (OH&S) and is aimed at ensuring that work environments, tasks, and equipment are designed and modified to fit the capabilities and needs of workers. Here are some key aspects and considerations related to adapting work to workers:

1. Ergonomic Design: Ergonomics focuses on designing workspaces, tools, and processes to optimize human performance and well-being while minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, fatigue, and other work-related health issues.
2. Physical Factors: Considerations include the design of workstations, chairs, and equipment to accommodate the physical attributes and comfort of workers, such as height-adjustable desks and chairs with lumbar support.
3. Task Design: Tasks should be designed to match workers’ abilities and limitations. This may involve reducing repetitive movements, heavy lifting, or awkward postures.
4. Workload Management: Manage workloads to ensure that they are reasonable and can be comfortably handled by workers. This includes adjusting work schedules and providing adequate rest breaks.
5. Training and Education: Ensure that workers are trained in proper ergonomic practices and understand the importance of good ergonomics in preventing workplace injuries and promoting well-being.
6. Accessibility: Ensure that the workplace is accessible to all employees, including those with disabilities. This may involve making physical modifications, providing assistive technologies, or offering accommodations.
7. Health and Well-being Programs: Implement programs that promote employee health and well-being, such as fitness initiatives, stress management, and nutrition programs.
8. Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage workers to provide feedback on their working conditions and any ergonomic concerns. Create a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting issues.
9. Regular Assessments: Conduct regular assessments of workplace ergonomics to identify areas for improvement and implement changes as needed.
10. Compliance with Regulations: Ensure compliance with relevant OH&S regulations and standards related to ergonomic design and worker accommodation.
11. Inclusive Work Environment: Foster an inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes the well-being of all employees, regardless of their physical abilities or limitations.
12. Health Monitoring: Monitor the health and well-being of workers through health assessments, surveys, and medical examinations to identify and address ergonomic-related concerns.

Adapting work to workers not only reduces the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses but also enhances employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall job performance. It is an essential component of a comprehensive OH&S Management System, emphasizing the importance of considering the human factor in workplace design and management.

6) At multi-employer workplaces, the organization shall coordinate the relevant parts of the OH&S management system with the other organizations.

Coordinating the relevant parts of the Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management System with other organizations in multi-employer workplaces is crucial to ensuring a safe and healthy working environment for all employees and contractors involved. This coordination helps prevent duplication of efforts, ensures consistent safety standards, and promotes effective communication. Here are some key considerations for coordinating OH&S efforts in multi-employer workplaces:

1. Shared Responsibilities: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each organization operating within the multi-employer workplace. This includes identifying the primary employer and any secondary employers or contractors.
2. OH&S Policy Alignment: Ensure that the OH&S policies, objectives, and commitments of all organizations involved are aligned and mutually supportive. This promotes a shared commitment to safety.
3. Communication Protocols: Establish effective communication channels between organizations to share safety-related information, incident reports, and best practices. Regular meetings and joint safety committees can facilitate this.
4. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: Collaborate on hazard identification and risk assessment processes to address shared workspaces and activities. This may involve joint risk assessments and the development of unified control measures.
5. Training and Competence: Coordinate training programs to ensure that all workers and contractors are adequately trained in safety procedures, emergency response, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
6. Emergency Response Planning: Develop and coordinate emergency response plans that address potential incidents involving multiple employers, such as evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and roles during emergencies.
7. Incident Reporting and Investigation: Establish a consistent process for reporting, investigating, and documenting workplace incidents, near misses, and hazards. Ensure that all organizations adhere to the same reporting requirements.
8. Documented Information Sharing: Share relevant documented information, such as safety procedures, manuals, and guidelines, to ensure that all parties have access to essential OH&S information.
9. Contractor Management: If applicable, implement a comprehensive contractor management program that includes evaluating contractor safety performance and ensuring that contractors comply with OH&S requirements.
10. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Stay informed about and comply with all applicable OH&S laws and regulations. Collaborate with other organizations to ensure joint compliance efforts.
11. Continuous Improvement: Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by jointly evaluating OH&S performance, sharing lessons learned from incidents, and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
12. Conflict Resolution: Develop a process for resolving conflicts or disputes related to OH&S matters among organizations. Ensure that mechanisms for reporting and addressing conflicts are well-defined.
13. Performance Monitoring: Implement a system for monitoring OH&S performance across organizations, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and regular safety audits.
14. Management Review: Conduct joint OH&S management reviews to assess the effectiveness of the coordinated efforts and identify areas for improvement.
15. Documentation and Records: Maintain clear and accessible records of all OH&S-related activities, including collaborative efforts, incident reports, training records, and audits.

Effective coordination among organizations in multi-employer workplaces enhances overall safety and minimizes risks to all workers. It fosters a shared responsibility for OH&S and contributes to a safer and more productive work environment.

Example for procedure for Operational planning and control

Objective: To ensure that all operational activities within the organization are planned, implemented, and controlled in a manner that prioritizes occupational health and safety (OH&S) and aligns with the organization’s OH&S objectives and legal requirements.

Scope: This procedure applies to all employees, contractors, and stakeholders involved in the organization’s operational activities.

Responsibilities:

• Top Management: Responsible for overall OH&S policy and commitment.
• OH&S Manager: Responsible for coordinating and overseeing operational planning and control.
• Department Heads/Supervisors: Responsible for implementing and monitoring operational activities within their respective areas.

Procedure:

1. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment:
   • Conduct regular hazard identification and risk assessments for all operational activities.
   • Prioritize risks based on severity, likelihood, and potential consequences.
   • Document findings and risk assessments.
2. Operational Planning:
   • Develop operational plans that address identified hazards and risks.
   • Specify control measures, safe work procedures, and resources required.
   • Ensure alignment with the organization’s OH&S objectives.
   • Involve relevant stakeholders in the planning process.
   • Document and communicate the operational plans to relevant personnel.
3. Resource Allocation:
   • Allocate necessary resources, including financial, human, and technological resources, to support the operational plans.
   • Ensure that resources are adequate to implement control measures effectively.
4. Safe Work Procedures:
   • Develop and document safe work procedures for each operational activity.
   • Ensure that safe work procedures are easily accessible to employees.
   • Provide training to employees on the safe work procedures.
   • Regularly review and update safe work procedures as needed.
5. Emergency Response Planning:
   • Develop emergency response plans and procedures for operational activities.
   • Conduct drills and exercises to test the effectiveness of emergency response plans.
   • Ensure that employees are familiar with emergency response procedures.
6. Performance Monitoring and Measurement:
   • Define key performance indicators (KPIs) related to operational safety.
   • Monitor and measure OH&S performance regularly.
   • Review performance data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
7. Change Management:
   • Establish a formal change control process for any changes to operational activities.
   • Assess the impact of proposed changes on OH&S.
   • Obtain necessary approvals and communicate changes to affected personnel.
8. Incident Reporting and Investigation:
   • Establish a system for reporting incidents, near misses, and hazardous conditions.
   • Investigate incidents, identify root causes, and develop corrective and preventive actions.
   • Document incident reports, investigations, and actions taken.
9. Document Control:
   • Manage documented information related to operational planning and control, including version control and access permissions.
   • Ensure that employees have access to relevant documents.
10. Performance Review:
    • Conduct regular reviews of OH&S performance related to operational activities.
    • Identify areas for improvement and initiate corrective actions.
11. Management Review: Include operational planning and control as part of the management review process. Assess the effectiveness of operational safety measures and make informed decisions.
12. Continuous Improvement:Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. Encourage employees to provide feedback and suggestions for OH&S enhancements.
13. Documentation and Records: Maintain records of all activities related to operational planning and control, including risk assessments, plans, training records, and incident reports.

Review and Revision:

This procedure shall be reviewed at regular intervals to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with organizational goals and OH&S requirements. Any necessary revisions shall be made, and updated versions of the procedure shall be communicated to relevant personnel.