Purpose of the Task

This task develops the learner’s ability to communicate risk information clearly and confidently in real workplace settings. The toolbox talk helps the learner show understanding of ISO 45001 requirements, risk assessment principles, strategic risk control, and effective communication.

Learners must prepare a short 3–5 minute workplace talk on a selected safety topic.

PART A — Assessor-Provided Scenario and Topic

Selected Topic:

Ladder Safety and Working at Height

The topic is chosen because it connects directly with risk-based safety, ISO planning and operational controls, and strategic risk evaluation.

Scenario:

A team of technicians is preparing maintenance tasks in an industrial facility. Several tasks require the use of step ladders. Recent inspections found:

• ladders stored incorrectly
• worn rubber feet
• workers climbing with tools in hand
• workers over-reaching
• missing pre-use checks
• inconsistent toolbox briefings by supervisors

Learners must create a short toolbox talk addressing the risks, controls, and expected behaviour.

PART B — Model-Completed Toolbox Talk (3–5 minute example)

Toolbox Talk: Ladder Safety and Working at Height

Good morning everyone. Today’s briefing is about ladder safety. This talk is important because working at height is one of the highest-risk activities on this site. Most ladder accidents happen due to simple mistakes such as poor inspection, over-reaching, or using the wrong type of ladder.
The first point is the condition of the ladder. Before any task starts, the ladder must be checked. This includes the steps, locking arms, stiles, and rubber feet. If any parts are damaged, the ladder must be removed from use and reported. A damaged ladder increases the chance of slips, falls, and serious injuries.
The second point is correct set-up. The ladder must stand on a level and stable surface. It must be fully opened and locked. Workers must not climb while carrying tools in their hands. Tools must be placed in a tool belt or lifted by rope. Climbing with tools increases the chance of losing balance and dropping objects on people working below.
The third point is body position. Workers must not over-reach or lean too far to the side. If the task cannot be reached safely, the ladder must be moved. Many injuries happen because workers stretch beyond the safe centreline.
The fourth point is behaviour and housekeeping. The work area must be kept clear. No one should walk under the ladder. Barriers or a spotter must be used in busy areas to control access. Good housekeeping supports clear communication and reduces risks.
The final point is responsibility. All workers must follow the procedure. Supervisors must check that the correct ladder is used, and the job risk assessment must reflect real conditions. These steps support ISO requirements for risk control and make sure that our work is managed safely.
Thank you. Stay safe.

PART C — How the Toolbox Talk Supports the Unit Learning Outcomes

1. Development and implementation of ISO standards

The toolbox talk:

• reflects ISO 45001 requirements for safe work planning
• supports operational control
• reinforces hazard identification and procedure compliance
• helps maintain worker competence and awareness

2. Strategic risk evaluation using quantifiable assessment

The talk links ladder hazards to:

• high-severity risks such as fractures and head injuries
• controls identified in the risk assessment
• the need for inspections and documented checks
• consistent application of safe practices that reduce likelihood scores

2. Risk communication strategies

The talk demonstrates:

• clear, simple, audience-focused communication
• emphasis on behaviours, expectations, and responsibilities
• translation of written procedures into practical info
• a structured message that supervisors can repeat across departments

PART D — Learner Task Instructions

Learners must now:

1. Select a safety topic from the following list:

• Housekeeping and slip prevention
• Waste handling and segregation
• Manual handling
• Control of contractors
• Fire prevention and hot work

2. Prepare a 3–5 minute toolbox talk covering:

• why the topic is important
• key hazards and risk levels
• controls based on organisational rules and ISO 45001
• expected worker behavior
• supervisor responsibilities
• how communication reduces risk

3. Deliver the talk in written format or record it as spoken text.

4. Compare their structure with the model example.

5. Explain how their talk meets the three learning outcomes of the unit.