Risk management

The first step in the risk management process includes the identification of potential hazards in the entertainment industry is a major step in minimising safety breaches to yourself, colleagues, customers/clients and others typical to the industry.

The range of hazards that could occur include:

• the use of hazardous and non-hazardous materials

• human factors, including fatigue (self and others)

• undertaking manual handling

• using tools, equipment and machinery

• the specific work environment, eg. confined spaces

• specific work processes and practices, including: working at heights; in a confined space; in the dark and/or in reduced/adverse lighting conditions; on special effects, stunts or action sequences; and with electricity and cabling.

The fourth step in the risk management process is the continual monitoring and reviewing of your risk management plans to ensure they are still effective.

Circumstances and environments change constantly and therefore risks and their control measures need to be reviewed regularly to make sure they work as planned. It is no good waiting until something fails.

WHS regulations require that reviews are conducted in specific situations:

• • when the control measure is not effective in controlling the risk

  • if something is to change and a new uncontrolled safety risk may appear

  • if a new hazard or risk is identified

  • if the results of consultation indicate that a review is necessary

  • if a health and safety representative requests a review.