Module 1 – Foundations of Workplace Health and Safety

This module introduces the fundamental principles of workplace health and safety (WHS) as they apply to Occupational Therapists working with assistance animals. It explores the legislative and regulatory framework governing workplace health and safety in Australia, including the roles and responsibilities of employers, workers and other stakeholders. Students will examine relevant legislation, professional standards, organisational policies and safe work systems while developing an understanding of how workplace health and safety supports safe, ethical and person-centred assistance animal practice. The module establishes the foundation upon which effective risk management and professional decision-making are built.

Module Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, learners will be able to:

1. Explain the purpose, importance and principles of workplace health and safety (WHS) within assistance animal practice settings.
2. Describe the roles, duties and responsibilities of workers, employers, organisations and relevant stakeholders in maintaining a safe workplace.
3. Explain the Australian WHS legislative and regulatory framework and its application to assistance animal practice environments.
4. Identify relevant WHS legislation, standards, codes of practice and guidance materials that support safe assistance animal practice.
5. Apply principles of safe work practice when working with assistance animals, clients, handlers, colleagues, equipment and environments.
6. Explain the role of organisational WHS policies, procedures and safe work systems in promoting consistent and effective safety practices.
7. Identify common hazards associated with assistance animal practice, including animal-related, physical, environmental, biological, chemical and psychosocial hazards.
8. Apply hazard identification and risk assessment principles to evaluate workplace risks within assistance animal settings.
9. Explain the hierarchy of controls and describe how risk control measures can be implemented to reduce workplace hazards.
10. Describe the importance of consultation, communication and reporting processes in supporting workplace safety.
11. Explain the importance of reporting hazards, incidents, injuries and near misses to support prevention and continuous improvement.
12. Demonstrate a proactive WHS mindset by recognising that workplace safety is a shared responsibility involving people, animals and the environment.

Learning Outcome Mapping