Issue date 29 November 2002
The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, AQIS, will be introducing new work safety standards to protect our officers who are involved in the inspection of ships holds to allow for the loading of goods for export. The new standards have been based on risk assessments performed by our Occupational Health and Safety teams and take into account the environments in which our officers are required work on a day-to-day basis.
The new systems will be phased in at all ports during December 2002.
The work practices will involve the use of a team of two officers for each hold being inspected and the use of rope systems to protect officers from the dangers of working at height. You may also notice a number of smaller changes to the way officers enter, exit and work in holds. Additionally, officers may now be carrying personal gas warning devices.
There is no change to the inspection standard, as the standard is prescribed in the Grain, Plants and Plant Products Orders (GPPPO’s) Schedule 4.
Any inquiries on this matter should be directed to the contact officer:
Telephone: (02) 6272 4976
Fax: (02) 6272 3745