Outdoor work

  • Many people working in agriculture have jobs that require them to work outside. 

The following can make working outside hazardous:    

PCBUs: Workers:

As a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), you must eliminate or manage the risks of outdoor work by:

  • identifying the relevant hazards
  • assessing and managing risks, and
  • implementing, monitoring and reviewing control measures.

Your PCBU must eliminate or minimise the risks of outdoor work by:

  • identifying the relevant hazards
  • assessing and managing risks, and
  • implementing, monitoring and reviewing control measures.

You also have a duty to take reasonable care of your safety and that of others in the workplace.

Examples of how to protect yourself and others when working outside include:

  • telling someone where you are going and when you will be back
  • regularly monitoring weather conditions and emergency warnings
  • avoid working in bad weather, in the heat of the day or when air quality is poor
  • never driving through flood waters
  • wearing protective clothing and sunscreen
  • avoiding muddy areas, and carrying vehicle retrieval equipment in case you get bogged, and
  • always carrying equipment you can use to contact someone in an emergency (e.g. satellite phone or EPIRB).

See Part 3.2, Division 2 of the model WHS Regulations for more information. 

For more information:

  • Did you know

    The WHS regulator in your state or territory can provide practical advice, resources and tools to help you be safe when working in agriculture. They can also let you know which WHS laws apply to you.