Elements and Performance Criteria

Appropriate posture and handling techniques may include:
Bending from the knees
Maintaining a straight back when lifting and carrying
Using two hands to lift or carry
Avoiding lifting objects above shoulder height
Adopting non repetitive movements
Positions not held for long periods of time
Correct use of mechanical aids

Workplace policies and procedures will include:
Hazard identification policies and procedures
Emergency, fire and accident procedures
Procedures for the use of personnel clothing and equipment
Hazard identification and issue resolution procedures
Job procedures and work instructions
Waste management
Security procedures

Manual handling equipment may include:
Lifting apparatus
Hoists
Trolleys
Belts
Pallet jacks

Personal protective equipment may include:
Plastic aprons
Gowns
Gloves including heavy duty
Overalls
Enclosed shoes
Eye protection

Hazards include:
Manual handling
Patient handling
Toxic or hazardous substances/radiation
RSI prevention mandatory

Supervisor may by:
Nominated personnel
OHS nominee

Workplace organisation may include:
Grievance procedures
Appropriate induction of staff
Team meetings
Debriefing procedures following crisis
Management performance levels
Employee assistance with problems and introducing them to services available in the community

Return to work program may include:
Persons returning from injury and/or stress
Persons returning after extended leave

Critical aspects of assessment must include:
Ability to work safely utilising safe manual handling techniques and equipment
Compliance with the organisation's OHS policies and procedures
Ability to implement strategies designed to improve manual handling processes within the workplace

Concurrent assessment and relationship with other units:
This unit can be assessed independently however holistic assessment practice with other general health services units of competency is encouraged.

Co-assessment may be considered with:
HLTHSE1A Follow the organisation's occupational health and safety policies

Essential knowledge required includes:
Significant hazards in the workplace both indoors and outdoors
Location and use of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and emergency units and alarms
Workplace procedures that apply to fire, accidents and emergency situations
Potential hazards in the workplace and the risks/potential risks of certain behaviours, layouts/features
Legislative requirements and best practice approaches to OHS
Rights and obligations of employees and employers regarding OHS
Reporting mechanisms required for workplace injury and compensation claims

Essential skills required include:
Lifting, lowering and transfer techniques of manual handling
Implementation of practices to prevent or minimise risk
Application of safe handling practices and other safety procedures
Correct use of equipment according to manufacturers' specifications
Reading and writing skills - literacy competence required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by organisation/service. The level of skill may range from the ability to understand symbols used in OHS signs, to reading workplace safety pamphlets or procedure manuals, to reading labels and handling chemicals such as cleaning fluids. Literacy support available in the workplace may range from having access to support or assistance from expert/mentor/supervisor, to having no communication supports available. Literacy may be required in English or a community language depending on the language used in pamphlets or workplace manuals.
Oral communication skills - language competence required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation/service. Assessors should look for skills in asking questions, providing clear information, listening to and understanding workplace instructions, and clarifying workplace instructions when necessary. Service/organisation may require competence in English or a community language, depending on client group.

Resource implications
Resource requirements include access to:
Workplace health and safety policies and procedures
Infection control procedures
Other organisational policies and procedures
Duties statements and/or job descriptions
Manual handling equipment

Method of assessment
Assessment may include:
Observation of performance
Written tasks
Interviewing and questioning
Formal appraisal systems
Staff/client feedback
Portfolio/CV
Supporting statement of supervisor(s)
Authenticated evidence of relevant work experience and/or formal/informal learning
Case studies and scenarios as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice in the work environment

Context of assessment:
This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of workplace conditions. Assessment may be conducted on more than one occasion to cover a variety of situations.

A diversity of assessment tasks is essential for holistic assessment.