This is the first code of its kind in the world providing practical guidance to assist employers with protecting workers and others from exposure in their workplaces.
Key Impacts on Construction & Civil Contractors
Although construction is not traditionally viewed as a highrisk environment for biological hazards, the new Code applies to any workplace where workers may be exposed to biological risks. Biological hazards identified by Safe Work Australia include viruses, bacteria, parasites, mould, organic dusts, sap and other natural allergens—all of which may be encountered on construction and civil sites.
Workers may be exposed to biological hazards through close contact with other people, animals, contaminated materials, soil, water, or environmental vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks or mites—common factors in outdoor, excavation, demolition, and civil works.
Biological hazards must now be included in WHS risk management
PCBUs are required to identify and manage biological hazards as part of standard WHS duties, including reviewing risk assessments, SWMS and induction content.
Controls expected across all sites
The Code highlights baseline controls such as:
Highrisk scenarios to watch
Excavation and trenching in contaminated or damp soil
What You Should Do Now
For further information: Model Code of Practice: Managing the risks of Biological hazards in the workplace
