New Code Lifts Standards for Managing Biological Hazards at Work

Australia’s model Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Biological Hazards at Work sets a new global benchmark for controlling exposure to harmful biological agents in the workplace. This first-of-its-kind Code provides practical direction to persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs), officers and workers on how to identify, assess and manage biological risks in line with work health and safety (WHS) legislation.

Biological hazards include viruses, bacteria, parasites and certain fungi such as mould. These hazards are not limited to laboratories or healthcare settings; they can be present in almost every industry and type of workplace. If not properly managed, exposure can lead to injury, illness, infection or long-term disease, affecting both workers and others at the workplace.

Exposure to biological hazards can occur in a range of ways. In some cases, biological agents form part of the core work activity, for example farmers and animal handlers working with sick livestock, or laboratory staff handling clinical specimens. In other situations, exposure is linked to the work environment itself, such as outdoor workers operating in areas with high mosquito activity, or staff in damp, poorly ventilated buildings where mould can thrive. Biological risks can also be introduced from the broader community, including common communicable diseases that spread when people work in close proximity.

Under WHS laws, PCBUs must eliminate or, where that is not reasonably practicable, minimise risks associated with biological hazards so far as is reasonably practicable. Meeting this duty requires a systematic approach, including effective WHS management systems, clear policies and documented procedures that are understood and followed in day-to-day operations. Many businesses support this through formal WHS management systems and documented safe work method statements (SWMS) for higher-risk activities, which can help demonstrate how controls are planned, implemented and reviewed. Resources to assist with this, including WHS management systems and SWMS templates, are available from specialist providers such as BlueSafe and BlueSafe SWMS.

While specific biological hazards and appropriate controls will differ by sector and task, the Code highlights that a suite of baseline measures can substantially reduce risk. These may include ensuring good hygiene facilities and practices, effective ventilation, appropriate cleaning and disinfection regimes, suitable personal protective equipment, health monitoring where required, and robust incident reporting and response processes. Integrating these controls into existing WHS policies and procedures supports consistent implementation and ongoing compliance.

The model Code is deliberately broad in scope so that it can be applied to any workplace where workers, contractors, visitors or other persons may encounter a biological hazard. It guides duty holders through the risk management process, from identifying potential sources of exposure and assessing the likelihood and consequence of harm, through to selecting, implementing and reviewing control measures to ensure they remain effective over time.

By following the model Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Biological Hazards at Work, businesses can strengthen their WHS systems, better protect worker health and safety, and demonstrate compliance with their legal obligations in relation to biological risks.