Safety Matters - Rail, Tram and Bus Union of NSW

RTBU OHS Fact Sheet 3:
General Workplace Amenities
Amenities – What you need to know
Your workplace must have amenities as part of a safe working environment.
Amenities must be appropriate for each workplace. For example: a dirty
worksite will need showers; an exposed worksite will need shade and shelter;
and mobile worksites will need portable amenities.
What does the law say?
Clause 18 of the OHS Regulation 2001 says that an employer must provide
appropriate amenities for all employees. They must take into account the type
of work that is being done, the size and location of the workplace and the
number of people who work there.
Under Clause 19 of the OHS Regulation 2001 employers must maintain
amenities and accommodation. The employer must make sure all amenities and
accommodation is maintained in a clean, healthy and safe condition, unless the
employer has no control.
Types and nature of amenities
Amenities include Washing Facilities, Showering Facilities, Change Rooms,
Dining Areas, Drinking Water, Lockers and Storage, Rest Rooms, Shelter Sheds,
Seating and Toilets.
Amenities will vary in different types of workplaces, from large permanent
workplaces to smaller permanent workplaces, and temporary or remote
workplaces. As well as providing the actual amenities there is also the need to
make sure they are adequately maintained, with regular cleaning, etc.
You should ensure that your workplace has appropriate amenities by producing
an Amenities Plan for your workplace.
Safety Matters A Guide for Workplace OHS Representatives
SECTION FOUR
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