Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

PSPSOHS507A Mapping and Delivery Guide
Facilitate the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk

Version 1.0
Issue Date: May 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency PSPSOHS507A - Facilitate the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk
Description This unit covers application of principles of occupational health and implementation of strategies to control OHS risk.In practice, facilitating the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk may overlap with other generalist or specialist public sector work activities such as promoting ethical practice, using complex communication strategies, undertaking research and analysis, coordinating resource usage, promoting compliance with legislation.No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement.
Employability Skills This unit contains employability skills.
Learning Outcomes and Application This unit applies to individuals with managerial responsibility for managing OHS risk in the workplace to consider the impact of agents in the workplace on the health of workers, and the physical and psychosocial effects to workers' health arising from work organisation and work processes. It includes contributing to the implementation of developed strategies, systems and plans, as well as recognising the need for expert advice.It includes identifying occupational health hazards, seeking solutions and interventions to bring about change in the workplace, and facilitating risk assessment and controls to reduce exposure to the effects of hazardous materials and hazardous conditions in the workplace.Hazards of both short-term and long-term latency, including those hazards that impact on health are covered in PSPSOHS505A Manage hazards in the work environment.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.
Prerequisites/co-requisites Not applicable.
Competency Field Specialist Occupational Health & Safety
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities 		Slides
PPT 		Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Identify the potential for adverse effects on health from agents in the workplace
  • External sources of information and data are accessed to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health.
  • Workplace sources of information and data are reviewed to access information to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health.
  • The role of individual difference in susceptibility to occupational disease or injury is considered in identifying adverse effects on health.
  • Situations are identified where health professionals may be required.
       
Element: Identify the potential for adverse effects on health related to the interaction of the work environment, work systems and people
  • Knowledge of sources of occupational disease and injury are applied to analyse job characteristics and nature of work and the context of work to identify situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees.
  • Workplace and internal sources of information and data are accessed, taking account of privacy requirements, to assist in identifying situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees.
  • The role of individual differences in susceptibility is considered in assessing the potential scope and impact of situations with adverse effects on health.
       
Element: Facilitate the control of risks to health in the workplace
  • The hierarchy of control is applied to control risks to occupational health.
  • Workplace policies, procedures and schedules are examined to minimise situations with a potential to adversely cause physical or psychological harm.
  • Organisational communication processes are examined to maximise clarity of roles and employee involvement.
       
Element: Participate in the development of strategies to communicate occupational health information and data
  • Target groups for advice are researched and identified.
  • Health effects that may result from work and working environment are interpreted and discussed with stakeholders
  • Communication strategies are implemented in accordance with legal and ethical requirements.
  • The effectiveness of health communication processes is evaluated and monitored.
       
Element: Monitor and facilitate occupational health, education training
  • The need for health information and data, and training is identified in consultation with workplace stakeholders.
  • Personnel including health professionals and resources to deliver the occupational health training are identified.
  • Roles and responsibilities for delivery of training are identified and allocated.
  • Health information and data, and education is provided to managers and workers in a manner that facilitates understanding and uptake.
       
Element: Review and evaluate the occupational health program
  • Outcomes of occupational health programs evaluated through the evaluation plan.
  • The overall impact of the occupational health program is evaluated and documented.
  • Recommendations are made for future programs as a result of the evaluation.
       
Element: Identify the potential for adverse effects on health from agents in the workplace
  • External sources of information and data are accessed to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health.
  • Workplace sources of information and data are reviewed to access information to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health.
  • The role of individual difference in susceptibility to occupational disease or injury is considered in identifying adverse effects on health.
  • Situations are identified where health professionals may be required.
       
Element: Identify the potential for adverse effects on health related to the interaction of the work environment, work systems and people
  • Knowledge of sources of occupational disease and injury are applied to analyse job characteristics and nature of work and the context of work to identify situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees.
  • Workplace and internal sources of information and data are accessed, taking account of privacy requirements, to assist in identifying situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees.
  • The role of individual differences in susceptibility is considered in assessing the potential scope and impact of situations with adverse effects on health.
       
Element: Facilitate the control of risks to health in the workplace
  • The hierarchy of control is applied to control risks to occupational health.
  • Workplace policies, procedures and schedules are examined to minimise situations with a potential to adversely cause physical or psychological harm.
  • Organisational communication processes are examined to maximise clarity of roles and employee involvement.
       
Element: Participate in the development of strategies to communicate occupational health information and data
  • Target groups for advice are researched and identified.
  • Health effects that may result from work and working environment are interpreted and discussed with stakeholders.
  • Communication strategies are implemented in accordance with legal and ethical requirements.
  • The effectiveness of health communication processes is evaluated and monitored.
       
Element: Monitor and facilitate occupational health, education training
  • The need for health information and data, and training is identified in consultation with workplace stakeholders.
  • Personnel including health professionals and resources to deliver the occupational health training are identified.
  • Roles and responsibilities for delivery of training are identified and allocated.
  • Health information and data, and education is provided to managers and workers in a manner that facilitates understanding and uptake.
       
Element: Review and evaluate the occupational health program
  • Outcomes of occupational health programs evaluated through the evaluation plan.
  • The overall impact of the occupational health program is evaluated and documented.
  • Recommendations are made for future programs as a result of the evaluation.
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

The Evidence Guide specifies the evidence required to demonstrate achievement in the unit of competency as a whole. It must be read in conjunction with the unit descriptor, performance criteria, The range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Public Sector Training Package.

Units to be assessed together

Co-assessed units that may be assessed with this unit to increase the efficiency and realism of the assessment process include:

PSPETHC501B Promote the values and ethos of public service

PSPGOV512A Use complex workplace communication strategies

PSPLEGN501B Promote compliance with legislation in the public sector

PSPSOHS501A Participate in the coordination and maintenance of a systematic approach to managing OHS

PSPSOHS504A Apply principles of OHS risk management

Overview of evidence requirements

In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms:

knowledge requirements of this unit

skill requirements of this unit

application of employability skills as they relate to this unit.

Resources required to carry out assessment

Resources essential for assessment include:

legislation, policy, procedures and protocols relating to the control of OHS risk

workplace documentation, case studies and workplace scenarios to capture the range of situations likely to be encountered when facilitating the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk

Where and how to assess evidence

Valid assessment of this unit requires:

a workplace environment or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered when facilitating the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine

facilitating the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk in a range of 3 or more contexts or occasions, over time.

Assessment methods should reflect but not exceed workplace demands, such as literacy, and the needs of individuals who might be disadvantaged.

Assessment methods suitable for valid and reliable assessment of this unit must use authenticated evidence from the workplace and/or training courses and may include a combination of two or more of:

workplace projects

simulation or role plays

case studies and scenarios

observation

portfolios

The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate and where the person has a disability the principle of reasonable adjustment should be applied during assessment.

For consistency of assessment

Evidence must be gathered over time in a range of contexts to ensure the person can achieve the unit outcome and apply the competency in different situations or environments.

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

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

Required skills:

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

relating to people from a range of social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds and physical and mental abilities

communicating effectively with personnel at all levels of organisation and OHS specialists and, as required, emergency service personnel

preparing more detailed reports for a range of target groups including OHS committee, OHS representatives, managers and supervisors

applying continuous improvement and action planning processes

managing own tasks within time frame

using consultation and negotiation skills, particularly in relation to developing plans and implementing and monitoring designated actions

contributing to the assessment of the resources needed to systematically manage OHS and, where appropriate, access resources

analysing relevant workplace information and data, and make observations including of workplace tasks and interactions between people, their activities, equipment, environment and systems

carrying out simple arithmetical calculations (e.g. % change), and produce graphs of workplace information and data to identify trends and recognise limitations

using language and literacy skills appropriate to the workgroup and the task

using basic computer and information technology skills to access internal and external information and data on OHS

Required knowledge:

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge and understanding of:

structure and forms of legislation including regulations, codes of practice, associated standards and guidance material

methods of providing evidence of compliance with OHS legislation

requirements under hazard specific OHS legislation and codes of practice

hierarchy of control and considerations for choosing between different control measures, such as possible inadequacies of particular control measures

internal and external sources of OHS information and data

how the characteristics and composition of the workforce impact on risk and the systematic approach to managing OHS e.g.

labour market changes

structure and organisation of workforce e.g. part-time, casual and contract workers, shift rosters, geographical location

language, literacy and numeracy

communication skills

cultural background/workplace diversity

gender

workers with special needs

basic knowledge of organisational behaviour and culture as it impacts on OHS and on change

ethics related to professional practice

knowledge of organisational OHS policies and procedures

nature of workplace processes (including work flow, planning and control) and hazards relevant to the particular workplace

sources of occupational disease and their prevention

basic knowledge of toxicology of hazardous materials and potential health effects in the workplace

key personnel, including identifying 'change agents', within workplace management structure

formal and informal communication and consultation processes and key personnel related to communication

language, literacy and cultural profile of the workgroup

organisational culture as it impacts on the workgroup

The range statement provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. The variables cater for differences between States and Territories and the Commonwealth, and between organisations and workplaces. They allow for different work requirements, work practices and knowledge. The range statement also provides a focus for assessment. It relates to the unit as a whole. Text in bold italics in the Performance criteria is explained here.

External sources of information and data may include:

OHS regulatory authorities

National Occupational Health and Safety Commission (NOHSC)

industry bodies

employer groups

unions

OHS specialists

legislation, codes of practice, associated standards and guidance material

databases such as national and state injury data, NICNAS (National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme)

journals and web sites

manufacturers' manuals and specifications

Agents may be:

chemical

physical

biological

ergonomic

psychosocial

Workplace sources of information and data may include:

employees

hazard, incident and investigation reports

written and verbal complaints

minutes of meetings

reports

audits

material safety data sheets (MSDSs)

questionnaires

Health professionals may include:

occupational health physicians

general practitioners

occupational health nurses

health educators

Job characteristics and nature of work may include:

workplace processes and the hazards they produce

toxicology of hazardous materials

health effects of physical hazards in the workplace such as noise, vibration, thermal extremes

effectiveness of different control strategies

relative costs of implementation of appropriate control strategies

job demands such as high physical, mental or emotional demands; lack of variety; short work cycle; workload

work load and scheduling issues such as pace; shift work, inflexible work schedules; unpredictable, long or unsocial hours

participation in decision making and control of workload

adequacy of or faulty equipment

Context of work may include:

organisational factors such as communication; levels of support for problem solving and personal development; changing employment patterns; and definition of organisational objectives

interpersonal relationships at work, including with supervisors and peers

role ambiguity, role conflict, role responsibilities

career issues including promotion, job security and skills

Internal sources of information and data may include:

human resource, industrial relations, personnel management and staff

occupational health and employee assistance staff

supervisors

managers

OHS and employee representatives

Hierarchy of control means developing risk controls within the following priority order:

eliminate hazards

and where this is not practicable, minimise risk by:

substitution

isolating the hazard from personnel

using engineering controls

using administrative controls (e.g. procedures, training)

using personal protective equipment (PPE)

Organisational communication processes may include:

formal and informal communication processes

training

position descriptions and performance appraisal processes

Target groups identification includes:

characteristics such as, but not limited to:

size of workforce, group, team etc

location

variability of roles, responsibilities etc

language and literacy

cultural background

characteristics influencing communication strategies, such as access to information and data and empowerment

Stakeholders may include:

employees

managers

health and safety and other employee representatives

OHS committees

families of employees

local community

Ethical requirements may include:

confidentiality

privacy

equity

workplace diversity

Resources may include:

physical

financial

The evaluation plan may include:

appropriate communication strategies for the workplace

training content

training availability including delivery schedule

identification of relevant target groups

impact on workforce

impact on improvements to the workplace as a result of interventions

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
External sources of information and data are accessed to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health. 
Workplace sources of information and data are reviewed to access information to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health. 
The role of individual difference in susceptibility to occupational disease or injury is considered in identifying adverse effects on health. 
Situations are identified where health professionals may be required. 
Knowledge of sources of occupational disease and injury are applied to analyse job characteristics and nature of work and the context of work to identify situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees. 
Workplace and internal sources of information and data are accessed, taking account of privacy requirements, to assist in identifying situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees. 
The role of individual differences in susceptibility is considered in assessing the potential scope and impact of situations with adverse effects on health. 
The hierarchy of control is applied to control risks to occupational health. 
Workplace policies, procedures and schedules are examined to minimise situations with a potential to adversely cause physical or psychological harm. 
Organisational communication processes are examined to maximise clarity of roles and employee involvement. 
Target groups for advice are researched and identified. 
Health effects that may result from work and working environment are interpreted and discussed with stakeholders 
Communication strategies are implemented in accordance with legal and ethical requirements. 
The effectiveness of health communication processes is evaluated and monitored. 
The need for health information and data, and training is identified in consultation with workplace stakeholders. 
Personnel including health professionals and resources to deliver the occupational health training are identified. 
Roles and responsibilities for delivery of training are identified and allocated. 
Health information and data, and education is provided to managers and workers in a manner that facilitates understanding and uptake. 
Outcomes of occupational health programs evaluated through the evaluation plan. 
The overall impact of the occupational health program is evaluated and documented. 
Recommendations are made for future programs as a result of the evaluation. 
External sources of information and data are accessed to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health. 
Workplace sources of information and data are reviewed to access information to assist in identifying agents in the workplace with a potential to adversely affect health. 
The role of individual difference in susceptibility to occupational disease or injury is considered in identifying adverse effects on health. 
Situations are identified where health professionals may be required. 
Knowledge of sources of occupational disease and injury are applied to analyse job characteristics and nature of work and the context of work to identify situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees. 
Workplace and internal sources of information and data are accessed, taking account of privacy requirements, to assist in identifying situations with a potential for physical or psychological harm to employees. 
The role of individual differences in susceptibility is considered in assessing the potential scope and impact of situations with adverse effects on health. 
The hierarchy of control is applied to control risks to occupational health. 
Workplace policies, procedures and schedules are examined to minimise situations with a potential to adversely cause physical or psychological harm. 
Organisational communication processes are examined to maximise clarity of roles and employee involvement. 
Target groups for advice are researched and identified. 
Health effects that may result from work and working environment are interpreted and discussed with stakeholders. 
Communication strategies are implemented in accordance with legal and ethical requirements. 
The effectiveness of health communication processes is evaluated and monitored. 
The need for health information and data, and training is identified in consultation with workplace stakeholders. 
Personnel including health professionals and resources to deliver the occupational health training are identified. 
Roles and responsibilities for delivery of training are identified and allocated. 
Health information and data, and education is provided to managers and workers in a manner that facilitates understanding and uptake. 
Outcomes of occupational health programs evaluated through the evaluation plan. 
The overall impact of the occupational health program is evaluated and documented. 
Recommendations are made for future programs as a result of the evaluation. 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

PSPSOHS507A - Facilitate the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

PSPSOHS507A - Facilitate the application of principles of occupational health to control OHS risk

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: