This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Essential knowledge

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes knowledge of

Legislative requirements and best practice approaches to WHS

Location and use of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and emergency units and alarms

Potential hazards in the workplace and the riskspotential risks of certain behaviours layoutsfeatures

Reporting mechanisms required for workplace injury and compensation claims

Rights and obligations of employees and employers regarding WHS

Significant hazards in the workplace both indoors and outdoors

Workplace procedures that apply to fire accidents and emergency situations

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Work safely using safe manual handling techniques and equipment

Comply with the organisations WHS policies and procedures

Implement strategies designed to improve manual handling processes within the workplace

In addition the candidate must be able to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes the ability to

Apply lifting lowering and transfer techniques of manual handling

Apply safe handling practices and other safety procedures

Demonstrate correct use of equipment according to manufacturers specifications

Implement practices to prevent or minimise risk

Take into account opportunities to address waste minimisation environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues

Use reading and writing skills required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by organisationservice which may include the ability to

understand symbols used in WHS signs

read workplace safety pamphlets or procedure manuals

read labels and handling chemicals such as cleaning fluids

understand that literacy support is available in the workplace and may range from having access to support or assistance from expertmentorsupervisor to having no communication supports available

literacy in English or a community language depending on the language used in pamphlets or workplace manuals

Use oral communication skills required to fulfil job roles in a safe manner and as specified by the organisationservice including skills in

asking questions

providing clear information

listening to and understanding workplace instructions

clarifying workplace instructions when necessary

English or a community language depending on client group

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria Required Skills and Knowledge the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of workplace conditions

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

Context and resources for assessment

Resource requirements may include access to

workplace health and safety policies and procedures

infection control procedures

other organisation policies and procedures

duties statements andor job descriptions

manual handling equipment

Assessment may include

observation of performance

written tasks

interviewing and questioning

formal appraisal systems

staffclient feedback

portfolioCV

supporting statement of supervisors

authenticated evidence of relevant work experience andor formalinformal learning

case studies and scenarios as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice in the work environment

Access and equity considerations

All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally and linguistically diverse CALD environment

In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities workers should be aware of cultural historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal andor Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Appropriate posture and handling techniques may include:

Workplace policies and procedures will include:

Manual handling equipment may include:

Personal protective equipment may include:

Hazards include:

Supervisor may by:

Workplace organisation may include:

Return to work program may include: