What is SafetyMAP?

SafetyMAP (Safety Management Achievement Program) is the name of an audit standard developed by the Victorian WorkCover Authority. The University of Melbourne uses SafetyMAP as an audit tool to ensure safe systems of work at the University. In addition the University is a self-insurer for workers compensation. The Victorian WorkCover Authority requires self insurers to have in place safety management systems to at least SafetyMAP initial level.

The University of Melbourne is currently accredited to SafetyMAP initial level Version 4, designed by Worksafe. SafetyMAP Version 4 has been based on Australian Standard 4801.

An overview of the School and Univerity's EH&S procedures and legal requirements, for audit purposes is available.

The SafetyMAP Process

1.Starting out - conducting a self assessment

To determine the best way of approaching improvements to the system it is necessary to assess the standard of the systems that are in place. This is best achieved by undertaking a self assessment.

One tool for conducting the self assessment is the SafetyMAP initial level self assessment user guide. The user guide provides an explanation of all Initial Level criteria, examples of the types of verification that may be appropriate to demonstrate conformance with those criteria, and references to legislation.

As a result of the self assessment the organisation will have a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of its health and safety systems and will be able to move onto the next step.

2.Continuous improvement and self audit

Once an organisation's baseline health and safety performance has been determined using the SafetyMAP initial level self assessment user guide the process for improvement can begin.

SafetyMAP is based on a continuous improvement cycle where the organisation identifies a problem, makes the necessary changes and then reviews progress. As new systems are introduced, they are incorporated into the evaluation and review cycle. This process should be part of a plan for improving health and safety that includes realistic, achievable goals and timeframes.

The process of continuous improvement and self audit requires the effort and involvement of all levels of the organisation. Success begins with the commitment of senior management to provide the focus and support for the process. Management must also plan the changes and secure the resources needed to implement improvements.

Documentation required

SafetyMAP is intended to assist organisations to be more productive. It is not intended to burden them with additional paperwork.

However to prove an adequate system is in place to manage health and the systems must be documented and records maintained. An audit consists of more than looking at documentation and records but without these it is difficult to obtain the objective evidence needed to verify systems exist and are working. This does not exclude some circumstances where observation and discussion with relevant personnel may be the only appropriate means for verifying performance (eg. criterion 3.10.1 access to restricted areas is controlled; verification would be by workplace observation).

Each of the participating departments and faculties have developed local safe work procedure manuals to act as a guide to the system. The University has a comprehensive Environment Health and Safety Manual.

3. Achievement certificate

An achievement certification formally recognises an organisation's health and safety management systems. The achievement certification process requires the organisation to submit its health and safety management system to independent audit. The audit demonstrates to independent auditors that all health and safety systems covered by the SafetyMAP audit criteria are in place and are operating effectively.

Initial level achievement requires an organisation to satisfy the requirements of the 82 SafetyMAP audit criteria. These criteria have been selected as encompassing the building blocks for an effective, integrated health and safety management system that is also capable of meeting legislative requirements. Success at initial level is a significant that should be seen as a foundation for further improvement towards Advanced levels.

SafetyMAP's 5 main elements have been modelled on Australian Standards AS4801 (OHS Management Systems) & AS/NZS ISO14001(Environmental Management Systems).

Further information on SafetyMAP and its effects on the Chemistry School is available from Esther Mcconnell on (+613 8344 4027) or at estherjm@unimlb.edu.au.