Just What Is The Carbon Tax?
The Carbon Tax, in the simplest terms, means that polluters will pay at least $23 per tonne of carbon that is released into the atmosphere. This price will continue to increase until 2015 when the tax will then move to a trading scheme that allows the market to set the cost per tonne. The Carbon Tax is believed to be the most effective way in reducing the impact of carbon output and climate change on our environment and the option that costs the least in achieving this aim.

How Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Fare
However, as effective and cheap as the Carbon Tax has been heralded, many small businesses have voiced their concerns as to how the Carbon Tax will adversely affect them as research by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and industry suggests that small and medium-sized businesses will be the ones most likely to suffer.

Small and medium-sized businesses haven’t received any assurances by the Gillard Government of how the Carbon Tax will affect them and have had to piece information together from the media. They will also not be rewarded any compensations that larger households and businesses will be entitled to, while small businesses will also have to struggle to keep costs down daily by taking further energy efficiency measures. They will also be forced to absorb flow-through power costs. Small businesses have already suffered as a result of high interest rates and a heightened Australian dollar, and will also receive no real incentives that will help cut carbon intensity. Higher costs and lower competitiveness for small businesses will also result in lower probability.

According to ACCI Chief Executive Officer Peter Anderson, the research highlighted by the ACCI and conducted by consultants Castalia, small businesses will be ‘unfairly squeezed by having costs passed down the supply chain but [will be] less able than larger businesses to pass those costs onto consumers because of competitive pressures.’

The Advantages
However, there will be some advantages for small and medium businesses under the Carbon Tax such as being provided with a Small Business Support Line and the creation of a $40 million Energy Efficiency Information Grants program, as well as extending the small business instant asset write-off from $5000 to $6500 for businesses with an aggregated turnover of less than $2 million per annum for depreciable assets from the 2012-13 income year.

As controversial and as the Carbon Tax has been and despite some of the positive aspects it will have for small and medium businesses, it will also mean rising costs and less competition, and who knows in the long-term just what other problems will arise for small and medium businesses in particular because of the new tax.

How the Sun Affects Our Health
The reason why the sun can be so harmful to our health is because of solar radiation that is carcinogenic to humans, where all skin types can be affected and become damage due to exposure from solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR). This damage is permanent and cannot be reversed, and each time the skin is exposed to the sun increases their risk of damage, and can take as little as 15 minutes in the sun for the skin to start to burn. The types of skin cancer that can result from prolonged exposure to UVR include melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Preventative Measures: What Employers and Employees Can Do
Employers are highly encouraged under Australian occupational health and safety laws to take steps to reduce the risk of sun exposure to employees and protect them from prolonged exposure to UVR. It also aims to prevent illness and injury in the workplace and must provide a safe working environment for all workers. All employers owe a duty of care and all employees must follow proper protection policies and procedures, as well as attend any training provided and follow instructions on being sun safe.

Employers can also ensure a Sun Smart working environment by rescheduling outdoor work times and to have employees wear protective gear such as sun hats and certain types of fabric that can help to reduce sun damage. Providing shade and modifying reflective services and tinting windows on vehicles can also help to reduce sun exposure. It is highly important that employers and workers also work together to implement a sun protection program that corresponds with occupational hazard controls that should also involve measures that reduce UVR exposure by making physical changes to the workplace, and administrative controls that involve changing work procedures and the way work is organised in order to reduce UVR exposure.

The Sun and Risk Assessment
Risk assessment is also an effective way in reducing the risk of UVR exposure by identifying employees who have a higher risk to UVR exposure and managing factors involving UVR exposure that affects working outdoors, such as the location and times of day jobs are performed outside.

The Sun Smart message is more important than ever as our environment continues to change. It only takes small measures in the workplace to reduce the major risk of sun exposure and disease. Employers and workers must work together to create and maintain them regularly to keep the workplace productive and safe. Just a few small changes are so much better than what the devastating alternatives could possibly be, and they can only happen if we work together to make a difference.

Dangers of Working Alone
Working alone increases the difficulty in reaching emergency services no matter what period of time they are alone for. Some situations can suddenly arise due to a medical condition, a work-related injury or disease, depending on the environment, and the consequences can be fatal.
Even those who may have contact with members of the public from time to time, for example, nurses, shopkeepers or taxi drivers, can be affected by work-related violence, aggression and bullying.

The development of proper safe work systems for those working alone should be taken into great consideration, as well as taking current health and safety legislation into account. Under regulation 3.1 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, workplaces in which employees work alone are required to conduct risk management processes that are mandatory, while also having a means of communication and a procedure for regular contact should an emergency arise.

Working Alone and Risk Management
Risk management processes may include:

• Recognising hazards in the workplace that employees can be exposed to
• Assessing the likelihood of risks from these hazards and assessing risks, as well as the extent of any injury or harm
• Reducing or eliminating the risk of injury and harm by putting control measures in place and have them reviewed and monitored on a regular basis.

To Be Alone and Safe
To ensure safety for employees working alone, employers must provide sufficient training and information, as well as be thorough with workers on understanding the hazards that may happen and what procedures should be followed in order to reduce risks. Supervision may also be required, and could be indirect if a worker is alone over long periods of time. Most importantly, all workers should receive consultation throughout this process regularly.

Employers should also assess work methods when establishing a safe system of work in order to determine whether or not it is necessary for a person to be working alone, as well as observing the level of risk involved in performing certain tasks. A system of work can be carefully managed so as to eliminate the need for anyone to work alone at all, which can be the most effective way in performing tasks safely within the workplace.

Working alone should not have to mean you are at more at risk of suffering an accident than those who work with others. Safety for those working alone is just as important, if not more so, and it is extremely significant that both employers and workers take the time to assess any risks before allowing employees to work alone in any workplace.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stress: The Warning Signs
Working in the heat for long periods of time can result in serious discomfort and other health conditions to develop. Heat exhaustion can occur when there is a lack of fluids in the body, while heat stress occurs when others are not used to working in some heat-related conditions Being aware of the early warning signs of heat stress or exhaustion can help you and others to dealing with it as soon as you feel unwell or notice someone else showing such signs. Some of the warning signs include:

• Heat rashes – including hives and sunburn
• Heat cramps – including muscle spasms that can be painful and heavy sweating
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness and exhaustion
• Slurred speech
• Having difficulty thinking clearly

Preventative Measures and What to Do
If you feel you may be experiencing one or more of these symptoms or observe someone else experiencing them, it is extremely important that work tasks are immediately stopped and begin to take steps in protecting your health or that of others. Supervisors should also be contacted as soon as possible, and it is equally important to implement first aid arrangements and other emergency procedures. Should you work in an isolated area, all knowledge of emergency procedures should an incident occur and contact numbers needed must be known before you begin work.

All incidents of heat stress must be reported and investigated, with procedures to be constantly improved upon and review preventative measures taken to avoid heat stress ad exhaustion in the workplace.

To prevent workers from suffering heat stress or exhaustion, some measures that can be taken include reducing the amount of work performed outdoors, drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine, resting regularly, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing or other types of protective gear (which must not be discarded as determined by the employer).

Determining Humidity
How humidity is determined in other work environments can concern:

• Air Temperature: How hot or cold air surrounding the workplace is
• Humidity: Judging the moisture content in the air
• Air Movement: Which can include wind speed, and air circulation
• Radiant Heat:  This is heat radiated from the sun or emitted by different plan, buildings, fixtures or processes.

Many of us don’t think twice about working outside or working in environments that can become overheated and grow used to these surroundings. However, it is extremely critical that measures are still taken to prevent incidents of heat exhaustion or stress should they occur as the environment we work in can have adverse effects on our health. Taking preventative measures early can help immensely in creating a safe and healthy workplace for all.

1. Plan – Considering objective questions and predictions, as well as planning the who, what, where and when phase of the cycle
2. Do – Putting the plan into action, as well as documenting any problems or uncertainties that may arise and begin to analyse data being gathered
3. Study -  Completing the analysis of data, comparing data to predictions made and making a summary of what has been learned
4. Act – Deciding what changes are to be made and whether to perform the next cycle

However, while popular the PDSA Cycle’s origins are rather complex. Created in the 1950s by W. Edwards Deming, the PDSA Cycle was inspired by other problem-solving theories including that of Galileo, the father of modern science and his contributions to science and motion and combining experiments and mathematics; Sir Francis Bacon and his philosophy of knowledge where it should follow a planned structure; and the theories of Charles Peirce and William James, Harvard graduates who were linked to the philosophy of pragmatism where the function of thought guides action and that truth is tested by practical consequences of belief.

Walter A. Shewart’s concept of specification production, devised in 1939, was also a great inspiration to W. Edwards Deming and led him to modify Shewart’s concept. Shewart used a straight-line and later a cyclical process with which to conduct a task and to acquire knowledge, starting with specification, to production and finally ending with inspection. Deming later built on Shewart’s concept in 1950 by emphasising the significance of the relationship between design, production, sales and research.

Later in 1950 after Deming’s presentation of the PDSA method, Maasaki Imai and other Japanese executives created their own method, the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle that had some similarities with Deming’s earlier model, focusing on:

1. Plan (Design) – Where product design relates to the planning phase of management
2. Do (Production) – Production relates to the doing, making, working on the product being designed
3. Check (Sales) – Where sales confirm whether the product is successful, confirming customer satisfaction
4. Act (Research) – Should there be complaints about the product, it must be linked to the planning phase and action taken.

Deming later revised his PDSA Cycle in 1986, then 1991 and again in 1994 simply renaming each step as Plan, Do, Study and Act, as well as including a Model for Improvement focusing on  improving and accomplishing a task.

Although its foundations may be rooted in the intricate theories and ideas by some of the world’s greatest minds, variations through time now provides all workers with a problem-solving model in the form of the Plan-Do-Study-Act Cycle that follows an easy step-by-step process to perform tasks. Most importantly, this method of problem-solving also helps workers to remain safe in the workplace and to make logical and informed decisions before solving any problem.

Case study
In October last year, an employee at a fast-food outlet suffered horrific burns while removing cooked food from the microwave. The 10-litre container was food storage and microwave approved, but became a hazard after 10 minutes in the microwave oven. The hot plastic gave way as it was lifted out, and funnelled boiling water onto the worker, resulting in burns requiring skin grafts.

Precautions
The victim was not wearing personal protective equipment, which is recommended for anyone operating a microwave frequently in his or her workplace. While this is not necessary for someone who uses the microwave in the common room every now and then, it is a good idea in the hospitality industry. Protective equipment would include a full-length PVC apron, oven mitts, and industry specific clothing.

In this case, written instructions were available, but a separate set of instructions was given for this task, leading directly to the accident. Signage containing cooking procedures in all possible circumstances should be easily visible from the microwave, as well as instructions for the immediate treatment of burns. If employees are unsure, they should be actively encouraged to always seek advice from a qualified supervisor.

Contributing factors
There were a number of contributing factors in the above case, which are common to most accidents involving microwaves. Firstly, an inappropriate container was used for the particular cooking procedure. Instructions should specify which type of container should be used in certain circumstances, as well as cooking instructions for the food itself. Often, when produce is bought in bulk, the individual packaging does not contain instructions, so the supervisor on site must ensure the worker has access to the correct cooking instructions. If the victim in the case study had access to correct cooking instructions, they would have known frozen peas did not require water to be added.

There was no adequate risk assessment for this type of procedure, which highlights the importance of identifying all hazards systematically and implementing control measures to eliminate or reduce risk. Have frequent training refresher courses, and report any incidents in the workplace accurately to ensure action is taken to prevent it recurring.

A final message to send all your employees is, “If in doubt, ask”. Encourage an environment where everyone in the workplace feels comfortable asking questions, and knows who to seek advice from for a variety of issues. There is no such thing as a silly question, just silly accidents.

What is an induction?
An induction is an information session to develop an awareness and understanding of relevant OHS standards, common hazards for the particular workplace, and how they should be managed. It also provides all necessary information about day-to-day procedures, such as rules, role-specific duties, and supervisory and reporting arrangements. Induction training should be performed by the person in charge of departments or work projects, and employers or self-employed persons. They must hold Certificates and Qualifications relevant to induction training in their industry.

When do you do it?
An induction must be performed before any work is commenced that the employee has not yet undergone induction training for. Even if the employee has been with the company for an extended period of time, if they move to a different department within the workplace, they must participate in a site-specific induction. Hazards and procedures vary widely depending on the type of work being performed, so OHS induction in one department is not transferrable.

Refresher inductions should be performed when the person in charge deems necessary, in response to incidents, observations, or general risk management issues. Any employee who has been absent for more than two consecutive years may also need to participate in a round of inductions before commencing work. Induction repeats may also be required after any major changes to OHS legislation, which will impact the type of controls or procedures that need to be employed.

What do you need to include?
A general induction should include theory and practical activities running for up to six hours. Theory topics should cover the following OHS industry relevant topics:

• Duty of care under common law
• Roles, rights, responsibilities and enforcement provisions
• Communication and reporting processes
• Role and function of OHS consultants

The following topics can be incorporated as practical activities. Encourage employees to engage in:

• Identification of risks
• Assessment of risk and brainstorming of possible controls
• Answering previously set questions using the OHS manual
• Identify different types of plant equipment, and the meanings of symbols or signage associated with their use
• Discussion about drugs and alcohol use, bullying and harassment, housekeeping and emergency procedures

Depending on the industry and type of work place, length, type and nature of inductions may vary. Ensure the induction is engaging for employees by encouraging questions, including hands-on activities and discussing practical information they can relate to.

Innovation
Innovation refers to the creative design of new product, which could include:

• Developing a solution protecting against a mistake or problem experienced previously, which is then applied to the product
• Finding an application or good practice and applying it in your workplace
• Matching an existing solution with a problem in your product

Improvement and learning
There are only minor differences between improvement, innovation and learning, with each overlapping and complementing one another. An improvement is inventive changes applied to an existing product to make it more compelling for customers, or to reach a wider customer base. Improvements also apply to the production process, by streamlining procedures to increase efficiency and quality while lowering the cost. Learning is storing information and using it for future reference, and the ISO 9004 clarifies and connects these concepts to guide the way in quality management.

Research
Root cause analysis and statistical research can be performed in a variety ways, depending on the nature of your business. A small business lacking the resources to devote an entire department to research might outsource ideas from interested parties. Outsourcing can also include this like crowdsourcing and collaboration, which draw on the ideas of a large group of unqualified members who regularly experience the product. For example, Starbucks has an online portal where customers can enter their personal ideas to improve Starbucks products. This type of e-collaboration has been found to dramatically accelerate the process, with Proctor & Gamble claiming more than 50% of its product initiatives involve outside innovators.

However, ISO 9004 also provides guidance in more traditional sources of innovative ideas, such as scientists and professional researchers. A small group of highly qualified members, internally or externally, will dedicate 100% of their work time to research activities.

Testing
At a particular point in the innovation process, activities shift from theoretical form to practical form, as trial and error begins. Searching, probing and making mistakes are essential elements of the innovation process, but with ISO 9004, you will ensure this stage is as cheap and effective as possible. You may not realise, but there are better ways of brainstorming, prototyping and experimenting.

Even at the final point of implementation, ISO 9004:2009 provides a systematic approach to introducing the final product. If you’re a user of the previous standard, there are crucial benefits in upgrading as the new standard suggests broader applications of innovations and improvements. The standard regards innovation as a continual process involving a series of steps, rather than an elusive idea to be stumbled upon.

Carelessness and accidents
Cigarette butts and matches are fire hazards, and can cause fire through either careless disposal or accidents. Designated smoking areas and cigarette disposal units are designed specifically to reduce risk of fire, so ensure all smokers use them.  Fires caused by electrical equipment can be purely accidental, but keeping appliances and cords in good condition can limit the risk. Be mindful of overloading electrical systems through extension cords and running too many appliances concurrently. Always seek advice and the expertise of a qualified electrician, whether they are outsourced or located on site.

Properly contain flammable liquids, such as alcohol, paint, paint thinner or gas, and be cautious of any nearby heat sources or a high ambient temperature. Fire extinguishers should be positioned near high-risk areas (such as those mentioned above) for easy access, but not too close that they would be inaccessible in the event of a fire. Also, fire extinguishers are only effective if employees know where they are located and how to use them correctly, so ensure everyone is trained in these respects.

Mother Nature
Australia is one of the driest continents on earth, so fire can ignite relatively easily, especially during summer months.  There are a few easy ways to reduce damage during a natural fire, starting with reducing all varieties of clutter. Leaves and rubbish piles provide additional fuel for fires, whilst also possibly blocking exits, so ensure workplaces well kept. While sprinklers are less common nowadays, it’s good to check that they are not blocked or stuck behind large stacks and prevented from operating correctly. Dispose of flammable wastes offsite, and ensure regular rubbish is kept to a minimum.

Arson
Vandals lighting fires on your premises is a real risk, but safeguarding against arson is straightforward. Maintain a high level of building or site security, especially after hours. Report any suspicious activity, even if it feels unnecessary, because it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Signage and Evacuation
Emergency telephone numbers and the company address should be easily visible from all phones in the workplace. Adequate signage should also be visible around the workplace, outlining evacuation routes and procedures. Train staff in evacuation procedures and any specific roles they might have in an emergency. Hold fire drills in which the alarm is sounded, staff evacuate and assemble correctly, and any equipment is shut down.

Encourage a workplace culture that takes fire safety seriously and is aware of the harmful consequences of workplace fires. While injury and loss of life are the first that come to mind, people can lose jobs and workplaces can be destroyed beyond rebuilding.

Take action
To conduct tree felling operation in compliance with relevant health and safety laws, you must take action to ensure all reasonable steps are taken to implement and maintain safe work systems. This includes:

• Providing workers with adequate information
• Giving all employees access to relevant training
• Ensuring adequate instruction and supervision is on hand

Where risk assessment finds a hazard, take immediate action to eliminate or minimise the danger. Possible solutions include using a mechanical harvester, which isolates the worker from falling timber, instead of manually operated chainsaw. If a manual chainsaw is necessary, implement the full range of personal protection gear, including a hard hat, face shield, hearing protection, high visibility clothing, cut resistant trousers or chaps, and lace up boots with good ankle support.

Use correct methods
Manually felling trees should begin by ensuring enough holding wood is in place to control the tree as it falls. The chainsaw operator should also establish a quick, clear escape route to take once the appropriate cuts are made. Saplings in the trees direct line of fall can form a hazard as branches can be snapped and flung in the direction of the chainsaw operator. Make sure the felling direction follows the path of least resistance and minimises damage to the surrounding environment.

Take precautions
Before the work even begins, steps can be taken to make the operation safer. Make sure all employees are properly inducted, as this sets a good foundation for their future safety practice knowledge and attitude. Keep a record of which employees are qualified for certain activities, so only capable employees are designated particular tasks. Have you got effective communication systems in place? An instant message to someone 20 meters away could ensure their safety by relocating them in a safer position, or warning of an impending action.
While tree felling operation sites are highly mobile, signage can still be used on machinery and temporarily implemented at work sites. These can inform people of restricted access, constantly moving machinery, high noise areas and places requiring full personal protection gear. They can also outline emergency information; to ensure the best possible action is taken in a bad situation.

Above all, foster an environment that values the safety of everyone on the work site, and encourages safe work practices. Low-risk sites where safety is ridiculed and seen as a joke can be more dangerous than high-risk operations with impeccable safety standards.