Understanding Exclusion Zones: Ensuring Safety at McLeod
At McLeod, safety is not just a priority but a fundamental value we embed into every aspect of our operations.
A critical component of our safety protocols is the proper establishment and management of Exclusion Zones. Whether you are on-site during a crane lift, overseeing truck loading, or working near heavy machinery, understanding and respecting Exclusion Zones is essential to keeping everyone safe.
What is an Exclusion Zone?
An Exclusion Zone is a designated area around an activity where only those directly involved are allowed. These zones protect workers from hazards associated with machinery operation or other high-risk activities. Within this zone, every person must be "signed into the work," meaning they fully understand the hazards present and the controls implemented to mitigate those risks.
Common Applications of Exclusion Zones
At McLeod, Exclusion Zones are a routine part of operations in various contexts, including:
Truck Loading and Unloading: Ensuring that only authorised personnel are near the truck during these operations.
Cranes/Hiabs Working: Protecting workers from the risks of lifting and moving heavy loads.
Forklift/Reach Stacker Operations: Safeguarding employees and other equipment from potential collisions or accidents.
Work Near Machinery: Keeping people safe from moving parts or other hazardous conditions.
Determining the Size of an Exclusion Zone
The size of an Exclusion Zone varies depending on the specific activity and associated risks. A well-defined Exclusion Zone should encompass the area where hazards may occur, including the travel path of machinery like forklifts or a crane's swing radius. The goal is to provide a clear buffer zone that keeps unauthorised personnel out of harm's way.
Establishing and Controlling Exclusion Zones
Each Exclusion Zone must have a Controlling Document—a written Risk Management System that outlines the safety protocols for that zone. This document may take several forms, such as a Lift Plan, Toolbox Talk, Task Analysis (TA), or Job Safety Analysis (JSA). It ensures that everyone inside the Exclusion Zone knows the specific hazards and controls. Signing into the Exclusion Zone is mandatory and signifies an individual's understanding of and commitment to the safety measures.
Risk Management Inside Exclusion Zones
Within Exclusion Zones, we use a simple method to categorise risk inside the zone using Red, Amber, or Green areas, each requiring specific controls:
Red Areas: These areas are high-risk. Examples include drop zones where loads might fall or areas where machinery is operating.
Amber Areas: Higher-risk areas where human presence is sometimes necessary. For instance, an Amber Zone may have a control that requires a forklift to turn off its engine before someone enters.
Green Areas: These are the safest areas within the Exclusion Zone. When establishing a green area, you must consider the location to avoid workers crossing into more dangerous areas, such as moving to a restroom or seating area.
Overlapping Exclusion Zones
In complex operations, Exclusion Zones may overlap. When this happens, it is crucial to assess whether the activities can coincide without compromising safety. If multiple zones overlap, workers must be signed in to each relevant zone, and the controls for both activities must be in place and understood by all involved.
Empowerment to Act and Raise Concerns
At McLeod, every worker is empowered to act if they believe the current controls are inadequate. Should any concerns arise, it is the worker's responsibility to stop the activity and work with the team to enhance the hazard management controls. This proactive approach is key to maintaining a safe working environment.
Clear Identification of Exclusion Zones
Effective Exclusion Zones are easily identifiable to anyone approaching the area. We use cones, barrier tape, and signs to designate these zones, ensuring they are visible and respected. The responsibility for managing these zones lies with the PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) in control of the workplace.
Exclusion Zones Create Safe Areas of Work
Exclusion Zones are a vital part of McLeod’s commitment to safety. By understanding and following the guidelines for Exclusion Zones, we can protect ourselves, our colleagues, and our equipment. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility—let’s all do our part to maintain a safe and secure working environment.
For more information on Exclusion Zones and how to implement them effectively, have a chat to the McLeod Health and Safety Team.
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