Navigating Risks on Conveyors: Sorting and grading goods on conveyors is an efficient process but poses serious injury risks. Conveyors, whether fixed or mobile, move materials for processing, storage, or transport, and workers manually sort and grade products. Risks include inadequate guarding leading to worker entrapment, pinch points causing injuries, and health issues from repetitive tasks.

Mobile conveyors introduce additional risks like runovers during movement. In Queensland's vegetable industry, 3% of injuries are serious or fatal. To manage risks, workers must prioritize health and safety, while employers should adhere to legal responsibilities outlined in the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, following a four-step risk management process.

The four-step risk management process aims to enhance worker safety.

Step 1: Identify the risk

• Inspect equipment and processes, considering worker tasks.
• Engage workers through surveys and discussions to gather insights on potential risks.
• Review records, including compensation claims and incidents.

Step 2: Assess the risk

• Evaluate the potential harm and likelihood of occurrence for each hazard.
• Utilize a risk assessment template to guide and document assessments.

Step 3: Control the risk

• Comply with legal requirements to eliminate or minimize risks.
• Follow the hierarchy of controls, considering measures like proper guarding, functional emergency stop switches, careful handling of mobile conveyors, and using automatic electric sorters.
• Encourage worker cooperation through maintaining clear walkways, rotating tasks, wearing appropriate protective equipment, and implementing safe work procedures.

Step 4: Review risk controls

• Regularly review control measures to ensure effectiveness.
• Proactively make adjustments or changes to maintain a safe work environment.
• Address issues identified by workers or health and safety representatives promptly.