In the world of workplace health and safety (WHS) legislation, the term “reasonably practicable” is often thrown around, leaving many business professionals scratching their heads. It sounds like a vague and confusing concept, but it’s vital for organizations to understand and implement. In this blog, we will break down the meaning of “reasonably practicable” and offer practical steps to comply with WHS regulations in Australia.
The Evolution of Reasonably Practicable:
The term “reasonably practicable” is a combination of two words – “reasonable” and “practicable.” “Reasonable” is a subjective adjective, varying from person to person. It stems from 19th-century tort law and involves evaluating actions based on what a typical, reasonable person would do. On the other hand, “practicable” refers to something achievable or implementable.
Understanding the Term:
At its core, “reasonably practicable” means taking achievable steps in the workplace to ensure the health and safety of employees and those impacted by the organization’s activities. Though not an absolute term, it requires businesses to consider realistic measures to mitigate risks and hazards.
Practical Steps to Comply with “Reasonably Practicable”:
1. Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments to identify threats, hazards, and risks associated with tasks or operations. Take appropriate actions to manage and mitigate these risks.
2. Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date with industry trends, local geographical factors, and emerging issues relevant to your business. Staying informed allows you to adapt your safety practices accordingly.
3. Records and Documentation: Document risk assessments and other safety-related tasks. Keeping accurate records helps track progress, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate compliance.
4. Learn from Others: Observe and learn from industry peers and competitors. Aim to meet or exceed the safety standards they set, ensuring your organization stays on par with best practices.
5. Genuine Communication and Consultation: Engage in meaningful dialogue with your workforce. Actively involve employees in health and safety matters, seeking their input and feedback.
Flexibility and Context:
While regulators may describe “reasonably practicable” as an objective test, the reality is far from that in reality. It is a flexible and context-specific term that depends on an organization’s size, resources, and circumstances. Therefore, businesses must remain vigilant and focus on continuous improvement to meet the ever-changing demands of WHS.
Accessible Resources:
To aid compliance, access freely available codes of practice issued by safety regulators. These documents provide valuable guidance on various topics, including working at heights.
“Reasonably practicable” might seem like a convoluted term, but its essence lies in taking realistic and achievable steps to ensure workplace health and safety. By conducting thorough risk assessments, staying informed, documenting processes, learning from others, and fostering genuine communication, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to WHS. Remember, being “reasonably practicable” is not about an absolute standard, but about doing what is reasonably achievable for your specific circumstances. Stay proactive, keep learning, and continuously improve your safety practices to create a safer work environment for all.