Monitor Environmental Work Practices

MONITOR ENVIRONMENTAL WORK PRACTICES

BOOK 2 – Primary Industries/Horticulture/Natural Resource Management/Parks & Gardens

REGIONAL AUSTRALIAN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT “DRIVEN BY LOCAL INDUSTRY & COMMUNITY”

A Commonwealth of Australia project funded by: Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations

Materials produced by: Regional Skills Training Pty Ltd

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COPYRIGHT NOTICE These interactive workbooks were produced by Regional Skills Training and funded by DEEWR (Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations) and are intended for free use to any student, RTO or school. Note the work is copyright and should not be reproduced or copied for commercial gain.

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CONTENTS  1.

Introduction and how to use these materials

03

 2.

What are these learning materials about

04

Employability skills

04

Identify resources used in your workplace

05

3.1

Accurately measure resource use and efficiency issues

07

3.2

Appropriately record resource usage

07

Recognise and report basic environmental hazards and threats

09

Lets discuss ways to help our environment

11

Follow work procedures and environmental practices

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5.1

Changing your work practices

20

5.2

Suggesting new work practices

20

5.3

Communicating changes to work procedures

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Comply with environmental legislation, policies and practices

22

Identify your legal obligations and report breaches or potential breaches to appropriate people

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Enviromental impacts of primary production

24

What types of activities are typical in the primary industries and land/parks management sectors? What are the most common environmental risks for each sector?

25

We have discussed common environmental problems

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8.1

Erosion control

29

8.2

Atmospheric emission control

30

8.3

Chemical drift management

30

8.4

Water pollution management

31

8.5

Biodiversity and vegetation management

32

8.6

Salinity management

32

Environmental Management in difficult situations

33

9.1

Feedlot Environmental Management

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9.2

The Great Barrier Reef

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 10.

Monitoring your performance

36

 11.

Legislation and Planning For The Environment

37

 12.

Being confident about your skill levels

39

 13.

Assessment

40

 14.

Bibliography and Useful Websites

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2.1

 3.

 4. 4.1

 5.

 6. 6.1

 7. 7.1

 8.

 9.

Monitor Environmental Work Practices

1. INTRODUCTION

HOW TO USE THESE MATERIALS

This set of workbooks relates to environmental work practices, procedures and responsibilities, appropriate to people employed in a range of workplaces in the rural, regional and remote sectors of Australia. Skills and knowledge developed will ensure your work meets environmentally acceptable work practices for your industry sector. Resources and activities provided are designed to develop your skills and provide formative assessments to monitor progress.

Completion of appropriate summative assessments provided by your Registered Training Organisation (RTO) will enable you to achieve competency in the unit applicable to your sector. Look at the table below to select the correct book to complete according to your job and industry sector. Participants must complete all assessment requirements and activities in their appropriate book.

Sector

Unit code

Unit name

What section/s do I need to complete

Primary Industries

AHCWRK313A Implement and Monitor Environmentally Sustainable Work Practices

Book 2

Business Services

BSBSUS201A

Participate in Environmentally Sustainable Work Practices

Book 1

Resources, Infrastructure Mining

BSBSUS201A

Participate in Environmentally Sustainable Work Practices is listed as a general elective for RII20109 Certificate 2 in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation

Book 1

Community and Health Services

CHCPR302A

Support Sustainable Practice

Book 3

Local Government/ Civil Construction work in an administration/office/ indoor capacity

BSBSUS201A

No environmental units listed in the qualification packaging rules for:

Book 1

LGA20104 Certificate 2 in Local Government RII20709 Certificate 2 in Civil Construction It is recommended that BSBSUS201A is completed as an elective

Local Government/ Civil Construction work in an outdoor/ natural resource management/ parks and gardens capacity

AHCWRK313A No environmental units listed in the qualification packaging rules for: LGA20104 Certificate 2 in Local Government RII20709 Certificate 2 in Civil Construction It is recommended that AHCWRK313A is completed as an elective

Book 2

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2. LEARNING MATERIALS

WHAT ARE THEY ABOUT?

The learning materials discuss issues related to Environmental Work Practices including: • • • • • • • • • • •

Identify resources used in your workplace Accurately measure resource use and efficiency issues Appropriately record resource usage Recognise and report basic environmental hazards and threats Maintain and monitor positive environmental work practices Follow and give workplace directions and instructions Seek opportunities to improve resource efficiency and environmental performance Follow organisational plans and work procedures Work as a team to identify areas for improvement Comply with relevant environmental legislation, policies and workplace/industry practices Report compliance breaches or potential breaches to appropriate people

2.1 EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS The learning materials provide opportunities to develop and apply employability skills that are learnt throughout work and life to your job. The statements below indicate how these processes are applied in the workplace related to environmental work practices. In completing your daily work tasks, activities and summative assessments you must be able to demonstrate competent “employability skills” in the workplace Communicating ideas and information

Verbally with supervisors and work colleagues on environmental work practices and potential hazards and risks.

Collecting analysing and organising information

Through maintaining and analysing environmental records.

Planning and organising activities

According to enterprise environmental practices and policies.

Working with others and in teams

Through working with others to follow and improve environmental practices.

Using mathematical ideas and techniques

Through quantification (e.g. counting, estimating areas) of environmental hazards or problems and through collection of data.

Solving problems

Through recognition of and responses to environment hazards and risks, and determining ways that work practices can be more environmentally friendly.

Using technology

Technology may be required to record information, deal with environmental hazards, and improve work practices to be more environmentally friendly.

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3. IDENTIFY

RESOURCES USED IN YOUR WORKPLACE

Do you recognise the different resources used by your workplace? To accurately identify the resources used it is often a good idea to develop a list of the business processes related to each product and/or service. Some typical work areas that you could be involved in and able to write a process list for might include: • • • • • • • • • • •

Receiving goods Storing goods Manufacturing Processes Packaging / storage Process Clean-up Waste Disposal Production systems Office administration Building/grounds Maintenance Transport / Shipping Product Transportation (including employee, sales, and management staff, parking)

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 ACTIVITY 1 Write a process list for your workplace. Limit yourself to the specific area/tasks in which you are involved. For this list you need to think about the resources that are used to complete each process



Process List/job task

Resources used

i.e. Receive goods to warehouse

i.e. Electricity for lights, fuel in forklift, fuel for carrier to bring goods to warehouse, paper for recording deliveries

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3.1 ACCURATELY MEASURE RESOURCE USE AND EFFICIENCY ISSUES Now that you have a better understanding of your work processes and the resources that are used, consider activities that may improve your performance and improve efficiency issues. Suggested activities may include: • ensuring environmental management is an integral part of every task completed • forming a “cleaner production team” and making sure everyone knows they can talk to each other and team leaders/ supervisors about concerns and issues • brainstorming to create a list of improvement options for eliminating/ reducing wastage • making sure you know who to contact if you encounter an environmental problem beyond your capability • attend training in all aspects of your job that may affect the environment

3.2 APPROPRIATELY RECORD RESOURCE USAGE It doesn’t matter what environmental measures are put in place, you won’t be able to measure the effectiveness of activities unless appropriate records are maintained in your workplace. Have you asked your supervisor what records need to be maintained? Keeping environmental records is often necessary for meeting legislative requirements. These are the “must do” records. Other “useful” records, selected as relevant by each business, are vital tools for use by management and workers for improved environmental planning and risk management purposes. You cannot rely on your memory so you need to record activities and decisions that are applicable to the environmental and risk management aspects of your job. You become a very important part of your workplace if you diligently help with completing any required forms or records. Through correct record keeping processes the business can: • • • •

satisfy legal requirements identify areas where efficiencies can be introduced enable management to monitor business, exercise control and make informed decisions related to environmental management use information from the past to plan for the future

The records that should be kept will vary between different workplaces, however there are some common sense rules. • don’t waste time keeping records that will never be used • keep records simple and easy to use to encourage everyone to use the system • make sure information is recorded accurately. Bad records can lead to poor decisions

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How will everybody in the workplace benefit from keeping records? Good record keeping will help everyone in the workplace to: • make better decisions and support each other to minimise environmental risks and hazards • achieve everyone’s commitment to the workplace environmental plan • analyse where better efficiencies can be introduced

 ACTIVITY 2 Complete the table below regarding the records that you are required to keep in your workplace. Remember the records under discussion here are those related to environmental management Type of record



Why is record required

How is the record used in the business

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4. RECOGNISE

AND REPORT BASIC ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS AND THREATS

Reporting environmental hazards Do you know who to talk to or contact if you see an environmental hazard in your workplace? This might be the occupational health and safety officer, the environmental officer or your supervisor. Write the name and job title of that person here:

Most workplaces have a set procedure for reporting environmental hazards. Sometimes it is necessary to make a written report. In other situations, it may be enough simply to tell the appropriate person. Sometimes reports of environmental hazards are required for legal reasons, but the most important reason to report a hazard is so that something can be done immediately to remove it. For example, if you find cleaning solvent leaking in the storeroom, you should report it or clean it up straight away. Remember that any work with chemicals should be completed using correct personal protective equipment. Do you know why you should act? Spilt cleaning solvent could start a fire, or it could send poisonous fumes throughout the office. By reporting it as soon as you find it, the cleaning solvent can be mopped up before it causes any damage. A simple action on your behalf improves the environmental performance of the business. Identifying potential environmental hazards It is important to keep a thorough check on workplace practices and habits to ensure environmental performance is satisfactory. The best place to start is to measure how the business is performing now related to environmental performance. Once a base performance measurement is achieved then regular “spot checks” will ensure procedures and performance are maintained. An environmental assessment can be invaluable in highlighting areas of poor performance and helping you and the business set goals for improvement.

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 ACTIVITY 3 My workplace environmental survey. Complete a walk around survey and list your results in the table below Ask your supervisor for permission to conduct a survey of your workplace. It would be ideal if he/she could be with you as this is completed to ensure you are welcome in all areas and don’t interfere with work tasks. This simple task requires that you walk around and really LOOK at areas of environmental impacts and inefficiency in your workplace. Many of these areas are often caused by bad habits that are easy to spot and straightforward to fix. They can generally be broken down into four key categories: • • • •

energy water waste pollution

Remember to be polite and diplomatic. You will be looking at the work practices and habits of people who have been in the workplace much longer than you! Identified environmental hazard



Suggested improvement

Suggested way to monitor success of the improvement

Additional improvements after looking at Activity 4

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Now that you have completed your walk around survey, compare your suggestions with the extensive list of ideas and suggestions below. Some of the suggestions will relate to office work and others relate to work outdoors. Are your suggestions included or are other suggestions for improvement also possible? Are any of these suggestions better than your list in the table above. If so then add them to your list

4.1 LETS DISCUSS WAYS TO HELP OUR ENVIRONMENT Many of these ideas may already be used in your workplace. Others may be suitable and should be introduced.

 ACTIVITY 4 Fill in the columns below after looking carefully at your workplace. • Put a big tick in the YES column if you already do something listed • Put a big tick in the second column if you like an idea and think it should be a part of your workplace • The third column is for your suggestions as to how a new idea might be implemented Think about what needs to be done, equipment required etc Choosing Energy Sources

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Use alternative energy sources such as solar, bio-ethanol and wind energy. Use a clean fuel such as LPG or methanol. Use fuels with the least greenhouse impact.

Using energy and resources carefully-Lighting Switch off the office lights when no one is in the room. Use the most efficient lights possible to save power as well as reduce air conditioning loads and reduce labour needed to change globes. Install skylights or look at ways to maximise the use of natural daylight. Use time switches to control the amount of time that lights are switched on. Push-button or time-delay switches will provide a pre set period of light (from 10 seconds to 30 hours) Use sensors to automatically switch lights on or off by detecting existing light levels or the movement of people. Use voltage reduction equipment wired into the lighting power supply to reduce the voltage applied to all lights.

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Energy saver functions

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Turn on the energy saver feature on computers and other office equipment. This will turn off your screen when you haven’t touched the computer for a while. Use energy efficient office equipment and power saving functions where they will be most effective. Minimise expenditure on space heating. At 20 °C, a 1 °C increase can cost about 20 per cent more. Insulate rooms to minimise energy waste. Fit self closing doors to reduce heat (or cold) loss from draughts. Minimise the use of hot water as it costs much more than cold water. Require suppliers to quote the energy consumption and costs of a new piece of equipment. Heating and cooling Use zoning functions on heating and cooling systems and close off unused rooms Use programmable thermostats that can be timed to switch on cooling or heating 30 minutes before work and to switch off when the building is empty. Reduce the need for air conditioning by installing adequate insulation and shading from direct sunlight Rather than heating/cooling the entire building, use refrigerated air-conditioning or fans for small areas when needed. Discourage the use of personal radiators and fans. If it’s cooler outside, switch off cooling inside and open doors and windows to let cooler air in. Practice responsible energy accounting. Track monthly energy consumption and costs to identify potential problems and ways to improve efficiency.

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Office equipment Use plug-in timers on equipment to avoid it being left on unnecessarily Activate the sleep mode of equipment. Check regularly that sleep mode stays activated Purchase one machine that photocopies, faxes, scans and prints to save on maintenance and operating costs Set up your fax number to go direct to computer files instead of printing faxes on paper. Set systems up so that everyone can send faxes directly from their computer instead of printing out and putting on the fax machine. Fill the fax paper tray with paper that has already been printed on one side. Instead of setting your computer to have a screen saver come on after a period of inactivity, set it to shut down the monitor and save energy. Encourage the use of refilled ink and toner cartridges.

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

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Save Paper Send a message by email instead of a paper memo or fax. Photocopy only the pages you need. Don’t make extra copies unless you are told to. Use the Print preview feature on your computer to check your document before printing it. If you have made a mistake, you can correct it before you print it. Make the size of the print font smaller so more words can fit on the page. Reuse paper by using both sides where possible ie use the back page to receive faxes or use old paper as notepads. Reduce your paper use by up to 50% by using the ‘print two pages to a sheet’ function on your printer Set your office printers and photocopiers to use the double-sided function wherever possible. Use PowerPoint for presentations and reports instead of printing notes. If people want a copy, email it to them after the meeting. Reduce your default font size by one point. The difference will be barely noticeable, but over time will save paper and printer toner! Reduce your page margin settings by 1 or 1.5 centimetres to fit more information on the page and use less paper. Reduce the volume of paper you use by training yourself and colleagues to send electronic versions of documents rather than hard printed copies. Reuse manila folders and lever arch folders as much as you can. Use internal mail envelopes that can be used numerous times. Eliminate unnecessary copies, notes, and memos by: – Posting office announcements in central locations – Sharing and circulating documents – Setting up central filing systems

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

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Water consumption

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Don’t waste water or avoid using water wherever possible — use a dry technique such as a broom, vacuum cleaner or compressed air jet. Fix dripping taps and leaking pipes and install water saving accessories around your workplace. Reuse waste water if at all possible. Where possible utilise harvested rainwater.

General office efficiency Install a function for saving emails directly to a server or database. Make sure everyone knows how and where to save information. Use ‘rewritable’ CDs or reusable memory sticks that can be used over and over again. Train people how to burn CDs using multiple sessions on a disk instead of once-only, so you can get much more use out of every CD. Reduce garbage by buying products that can be refilled (such as some laundry detergents, highlighters and ball point pens).

Waste handling and disposal techniques Make sure you know where every type of waste should go. Dispose of materials using a reputable and correctly licensed contractor. Clearly label recycling and waste bins. Use colour coding and/or pictures to indicate what each bin’s purpose is. This can be extremely important in a workplace where English is not everyone’s first language.

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Chemical use and storage of chemicals Substitute toxic materials with non-toxic materials where possible. Have a material safety data sheet (MSDS) for all chemicals to ensure appropriate skills and capacity to store and use the product properly. Keep a list of all chemicals stored. Ensure lighting is adequate to avoid accumulation of mess and to allow fault detection Store materials where a spill cannot contaminate the soil and ensure that materials in storage cannot collect, contaminate or mix with rainwater Store liquids indoors or undercover, on a sealed surface and within a bunded area. Store oils and chemicals in original closed containers. Ensure chemicals cannot react with others stored nearby. For example, acids should not be stored beside alkalis as they can react together violently. Include planning for fire and other emergencies when planning storage locations. Ensure storage tanks, including those underground, are not leaking.

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

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Protect the waterways/ control washing and spills

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Yes!

Will! What do we need to do to implement this idea

Ensure that all stormwater drains and sewer entry points are correctly and clearly marked. Fit litter traps onto stormwater inlets to stop rubbish going to the local water systems. Prevent sediment from construction sites entering stormwater drains by using straw bales or fabric filters. Prevent contamination of rainwater by roofing over areas where spills can occur. Avoid washing equipment, transferring chemicals, opening liquid containers and filling tanks where spillage could flow to a creek or stormwater drain. Keep large exterior work areas clean to significantly improve water quality. Never tip oils, paints, solvents or any pollutant onto the ground or down a drain. Ensure workers can quickly and effectively block stormwater drains in an emergency. Be prepared for spills and respond to them immediately (do not hose them away). Keep a spill kit on site for cleaning up any spills.

Reducing odour and air emissions When working with solvents and odorous materials, use a fume hood or spray booth to reduce the vapours leaving the area. Use low odour products and materials. Minimise the quantities of solvents and other volatile materials used.

Activity: In the final column in Activity 3 on page 10. List a second suggested method of reducing risk for each of your workplace issues. You may have several new ideas from the list above.

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5. FOLLOW

WORK PROCEDURES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES

Let’s review what you have covered so far. All of the activities have been completed with your workplace firmly in your mind. You have looked at: • • • •

what environmental resources are used what records are kept how the records are used what hazards exist

Basically this means that you should now have a clearer understanding of the way your workplace impacts on the environment and the hazards and risks that exist. You have a good understanding of “immediate issues” and recognise that the fundamental starting point for moving towards environmental sustainability in any business is accurately recognising the key environmental issues relevant to your workplace All businesses have some impact on the environment. Even the simple act of switching on a light has an environmental impact. As a business owner, manager, or employee, it is your responsibility to ensure that your environmental impact is managed appropriately and minimised where possible. Now you need to consider how to achieve “sustainable” outcomes. There are legal responsibilities for business owners, managers and employees to manage their environmental impacts. In simple terms those legal responsibilities are that you must not: “Undertake an activity that pollutes, or might pollute, the environment unless the person takes all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent or minimise any resulting environmental harm” Every business should have a series of steps that can be completed to properly manage environmentally sustainable practices. These steps need to be developed to specifically suit an individual business and should include: • managing their impact on the environment through developing and implementing sustainable work procedures • compliance with legal responsibilities • performing regular environmental audits to help assess which areas of the business impact on the environment, and to what extent • using sustainable resources • employing proper recycling and waste reduction measures

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 ACTIVITY 5 Developing an environmental policy As a new employee it is unlikely that you will have an immediate impact on policy and work procedure development. However it is a useful exercise to complete a basic environmental policy for your workplace related to the particular tasks that you complete. A basic template is included below and will help guide your thoughts in developing your own policy. My Workplace Environmental Policy I (employee): acknowledge that everything I do in the day to day operation of my job could impact in a detrimental way on the environment, unless I take the necessary care and responsibility to prevent environmental damage. I acknowledge the benefits of environmental management and will take all reasonable and practical measures to prevent or minimise harm to the environment. I will communicate all environmental concerns to my supervisor/employer. The activities and tasks that I am involved in that could impact on the environment include: – – – – – – – I (supervisor/employer): agree that the above list is accurate related to potential environmental impacts and that employee: is provided every support/opportunity to minimise impacts in their everyday work tasks. Employee name: Supervisor name:

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5.1 CHANGING YOUR WORK PRACTICES “ Why does this happen when I have just become used to doing a job one way” Changes to workplace procedures and practices are quite common and businesses regularly make changes to improve the way things are done. As businesses are becoming more aware of environmental issues in the workplace, many workplaces are introducing environmental rules that workers are expected to follow. If you are not sure about a rule or new practice that has been introduced or you are simply new to the job always ask questions. Remember that no question is ever silly. Typical questions may include: • • • •

What is the reason for the change? What do I have to do? When do I have to change the way I do things? Who do I talk to if I am having problems doing a task in the new way?

When you first start work, your supervisor will explain the things you have to do that will help the environment. Some workplaces have posters, signs or instructions displayed to remind you what to do. It is important that you don’t forget what you have been told, or ignore the importance of your environmental responsibilities. You will become a valuable member of your workplace if you do your job well, take responsibility for your tasks and also look after the environment. As an employee you are responsible for your own safety in the workplace. It makes sense that you also actively take responsibility for your actions to protect the environment. In activity 3, you completed an “environmental walk” around your workplace. This has helped you become familiar with actual and potential risks as well as solutions. It is very easy to get busy with the day to day tasks related to doing your job. You may also feel under pressure to meet deadlines. This can create situations where it is easy to “forget” the importance of the extra step that may be needed to look after the environment or to increase care thus reducing the chance of an accident that could affect the environment. Tips to help you remember: • keep any information you are given in a file so you can refer to it later • write suggestions you are given in a notebook • always ask questions if you don’t understand anything

5.2 SUGGESTING NEW WORK PRACTICES “I have ideas of my own but I feel silly suggesting them” Opportunities to improve resource efficiency and environmental performance should always be considered. However, if you are new to an organisation, or if you are a shy person, it’s often difficult to suggest an idea. If you have an idea that you think will be good for your workplace perhaps discuss it first with a workmate or ask someone else to talk about it with the supervisor. It doesn’t matter who makes suggestions, as long as they are made! It is also important to remember that suggestions for improvements don’t have to be about big things. Every little bit counts. Employers are always happy to hear about sensible ideas for improvement that will help the environment and the business as it demonstrates that you are actively thinking about ways to improve the workplace.

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5.3 COMMUNICATING CHANGES TO WORK PROCEDURES Whenever changes are made in the workplace, it is important that people understand what is being done, why it is being done and are encouraged to provide feedback. As an employee you need to make sure you understand all new instructions and actively participate in establishing any new initiatives. Some good communication strategies and ways to maintain staff motivation may include: • providing instructions in as many ways as possible such as by email, putting signs on noticeboards or verbally during meetings • keeping abreast of the latest environmental practices and advances in your industry and share them with your colleagues so you all feel like pioneers • making waste and the environment a permanent agenda item in monthly staff meetings. This gives everybody the opportunity to voice their opinions and give feedback • clearly explaining the benefits of any initiative you may suggest. This will help maintain the support of management, encourage participation and can be used as a promotional tool to industry, stakeholders and potential clients • clearly highlighting results and achievements in waste reduction targets and environmental management initiatives

 ACTIVITY 6 In the table below provide an answer to the waste issues listed. Complete the rest of the available space listing waste issues and your solutions that are specific to your workplace Waste Issue Excessive energy consumption by equipment Excessive paper use Dealing with organic food waste Reducing water use Dealing with fat/oil/grease



What is your waste reduction idea

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6. COMPLY

WITH RELEVANT ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND WORKPLACE/INDUSTRY PRACTICES Australian, state and territory environment legislation applies to certain business activities and is administered by both state and local governments in the form of licences and permits. Every workplace will have some legislative requirement related to the environment. Every worker should be aware of their responsibility as well as the overall responsibility of the business.

6.1 IDENTIFY YOUR LEGAL OBLIGATIONS AND REPORT BREACHES OR POTENTIAL BREACHES TO APPROPRIATE PEOPLE Your workplace operations may have many activities but they may not all be significant from an environmental perspective. Talk to your supervisor and workmates and ensure that you have a clear understanding of the legal requirements specific to your workplace. List each of the legal requirements in Activity 7. Against each of the requirements list who participates in compliance procedures and how compliance is monitored.

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 ACTIVITY 7 Complete the table below. If you are unsure of the legal compliance requirements talk to your supervisor and ask their help as you complete the table. Legal requirement

Who participates in compliance procedures

How is compliance monitored

What paperwork is completed to ensure compliance

Who do I report breaches of compliance /hazards to?

Eg. Must have chemical accreditation to purchase, transport,use S7 chemicals

– Any person in the workplace who will purchase, transport, use S7 chemicals

– Chemical accreditation must be current for 5 yrs

– Chemical store manifest

Immediate report to manager to ensure appropriate action

– Paddock – Employer must keep spray record records that show chemicals are handled and used by trained, accredited staff

– If a spill occurs – If a drift incident occurs – If a poisoning occurs

– Chemical resellers must have a record of accreditation numbers before selling chemical

When you are researching legal requirements the list below should be considered to ensure you have thought of all possibilities for your workplace. • • • • •

Water pollution, air pollution Worker health and safety Chemical spill and drift Waste disposal Biodiversity damage

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7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF PRIMARY PRODUCTION, NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, PARKS AND GARDENS MANAGEMENT In every community there are certain expectations that form the core of goals and values of the majority of the people within that community. The community can be in the: • • • •

immediate local area regional country global.

As a business develops and grows, it achieves an “image or reputation” in the community in which it operates. This image is made up of the values and expectations of the owners and the actions and ethics of the people working within that business. In addition the community is increasingly having a say in how a business can operate related to possible influences on the environment. A good example is how community expectations can cause limitations on how primary producers and land managers manage erosion or use chemicals near towns. This community influence or “control” should not be seen as a bad thing. The land is one of our most vital resources. How well the land and environment is managed will have a significant influence as to how productive and sustainable our business activities can be. This is applicable to the actual natural environment as well as the sustainability of community acceptance regarding the business activity.

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7.1

WHAT TYPES OF ACTIVITIES ARE TYPICAL IN THE PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND LAND/PARKS MANAGEMENT SECTORS? WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS FOR EACH SECTOR?

The following table suggests some possible environmental risks and solutions for the most common primary production /land management activities. Look carefully at this table as you will be expected to create a list specific to your workplace Activity

Environmental risk

Associated damage

How can the damage occur

How can the risk be minimised

Cropping

Soil erosion

Damage to roads, railway lines , infrastructure

Water runoff/flooding

Improving organic matter to topsoil

Siltation of watercourses and water storages

Inappropriate tillage methods

Wind moving topsoil

Contour banks Maintaining stubble residues Changing tillage methods to no till/ minimum till

Reduction in water quality of creeks, rivers and coastal areas Loss of topsoils Chemical drift/spills

Contamination of waterways, soil, wildlife, off target damage

Spraying at incorrect rates

Complete chemical accreditation training

Spraying with faulty or Ensure correct unsuitable equipment spraying equipment is used Spray in inappropriate Correctly calibrate weather conditions equipment Spraying by untrained Follow label operators instructions accurately Chemical spill Store chemicals not contained by correctly appropriate bunding and storage

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Activity

Environmental risk

Associated damage

How can the damage occur

How can the risk be minimised

Livestock

Water pollution

Reduction in water quality of creeks, rivers and coastal areas

Runoff polluted with waste

Correctly removing and disposing of waste

Loss of topsoils

Overstocking

Reduce stocking rates

Animals “camping” in same place causing damage

Improve pasture/ vegetation cover

Erosion

Ensuring runoff does not enter creeks and drains

Provide shelter belts in areas not prone to erosion

Methane emission

Increasing methane into atmosphere

Incorrect feed programs

Better nutrition

Vegetation damage

Loss of native vegetation

Stock gaining access to native vegetation through poor fencing

Improve fencing Reduce stock numbers if excessive

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Activity

Environmental risk

Associated damage

How can the damage occur

How can the risk be minimised

Production Horticulture

Salinity

Loss of plant health

Excessive irrigation with poor quality water

Complete soil tests and revise production systems accordingly

Excessive application of fertiliser

Improve organic matter content

High salt levels in soil

Viticulture Parks and gardens management

Reduce water requirement by changing irrigation method/timing/ reducing evaporation Water pollution

Chemical drift/spills

Intensive farming

Pesticide Damage/ Chemical drift/spills

Reduction in water quality of creeks, rivers and coastal areas

Runoff to creeks and drains

Contamination of waterways, soil, wildlife, off target damage

Spraying at incorrect rates

Contamination of waterways, soil, wildlife, off target damage

Spraying at incorrect rates

Contamination with chemicals

Ensuring runoff does not enter creeks and drains Complete chemical accreditation training

Spraying with faulty or Ensure correct unsuitable equipment spraying equipment is used Spray in inappropriate Correctly calibrate weather conditions equipment Spraying by untrained Follow label operators instructions accurately Chemical spill Store chemicals not contained by correctly appropriate bunding and storage Complete chemical accreditation training

Spraying with faulty or Ensure correct unsuitable equipment spraying equipment is used Spray in inappropriate Calibrate equipment weather conditions Spraying by untrained operators

Follow label instructions accurately

Chemical spill not contained by appropriate bunding and storage

Store chemicals correctly

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 ACTIVITY 8 Using the examples above as a guide complete the table below specifically related to your business Activity

Environmental risk

Associated damage

How can the damage occur

How can the risk be minimised

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8. WE HAVE DISCUSSED COMMON ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AND LISTED SOME WAYS THAT RISKS CAN BE MINIMISED.

At this stage it is useful to look in greater depth at the constantly increasing number of solutions that our industry is able to implement to better look after our environment.

8.1 EROSION CONTROL The biggest factors in a soils “risk” of erosion are soil type and land slope. If the risk is serious and cannot be reduced by mechanical means such as increased surface cover through organic matter retention and contouring to reduce slope then the land may be unsuitable for any agricultural or recreational use, or suitable only for a type less conducive to soil erosion. A variety of management techniques may be suitable. Some specific to farming practices are listed below: • using implements that can handle stubble, rather than burning it • using herbicides to control weeds, making it possible to employ minimum and zero till practices which minimise erosion in cropping areas • utilising appropriate cropping rotations to manage weeds and therefore reduce the need for excessive mechanical tillage • improve grazing systems to help with land degradation and protection of sensitive areas The following web site from the Birchip Cropping Group will open a useful PDF summary called “Moving into No Till” www.bcg.org.au/cb_pages/images/5708%20BCG%20Fact%20sheet%20Moving%20into%20No-till%20Final%20.pdf Management techniques suited to improved erosion control in parks, gardens and the management of natural resources can include: • extensive use of ground covers and mulches to reduce drift and erosion • ensuring species planted are suited to the soil and climate type to maximise health and plant vigour. Plant death, resulting in “gaps” in plantings, provide inviting pathways to walk and ride bikes. The increased traffic can cause erosion • drip irrigation rather than sprinklers to reduce erosion by excessive runoff

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8.2 ATMOSPHERIC EMISSION CONTROL Atmospheric emission control is a vital component of environmental management. Primary producers can contribute significantly in this area by improved animal nutrition and manure management to help cut down methane and nitrogen emissions into the environment. Researchers in Australia are looking into the possibility of reducing methane from cattle and sheep by introducing digestive bacteria from kangaroo intestines into livestock. Sustainability is essential to Australian red meat production from paddock to plate. At each stage of production, measures are undertaken to reduce emissions and increase efficiency on-farm, at the feedlot and during processing. This ensures Australia’s red meat is produced with a dedication to caring for our environment. Check out this fantastic website on the red meat industry: http://www.redmeatgreenfacts.com.au/Home The web site discusses: – – – – –

reducing atmospheric omissions and responding to climate change reducing water use and water pollution managing biodiversity managing weed and pest control managing soil care

8.3 CHEMICAL DRIFT MANAGEMENT Government agencies receive many complaints about drift of chemicals away from the target area. ‘Spray drift’ can arise from land-based or aerial application of chemicals to control pests and diseases in a variety of situations, including farmland, forests, parks and gardens, water catchments and roadside reserves. Drift can also occur from other chemical applications such as disinfectants used in animal houses (for example, poultry sheds) or fogging/misting formulations used in warehouses (especially food stores). The following web sites reflect the issues and management solutions applicable to many regions of Australia. http://www.teri.fnas.uwa.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0012/986493/Ground_Cover_2010.pdf http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790_4909.htm http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/biosecuritysa/.../chemical_trespass_spray_drift

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8.4 WATER POLLUTION MANAGEMENT Water pollution occurs when a body of water is adversely affected due to the addition of large amounts of materials to the water. The sources of water pollution are categorised as being a point source or a non-source point of pollution. Point sources of pollution occur when the polluting substance is emitted directly into the waterway. A pipe spewing toxic chemicals directly into a river is an example. A non-point source occurs when there is runoff of pollutants into a waterway, for instance when fertiliser, waste or chemical is carried into a stream by surface runoff. Types of water pollution include: • Toxic substance where a chemical pollutant that is not a naturally occurring substance in aquatic ecosystems. The greatest contributors to toxic pollution are herbicides, pesticides and industrial compounds. • Organic substance where an excess of organic matter, such as manure or sewage, enters the water. When organic matter increases in a watersource, the number of decomposers will increase. These decomposers grow rapidly and use a great deal of oxygen during their growth. This leads to a depletion of oxygen as the decomposition process occurs. A lack of oxygen can kill aquatic organisms. As the aquatic organisms die, they are broken down by decomposers which leads to further depletion of the oxygen levels. A type of organic pollution can occur when inorganic pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphates accumulate in aquatic ecosystems. High levels of these nutrients cause an overgrowth of plants and algae. As the plants and algae die, they become organic material in the water. The enormous decay of this plant matter, in turn, lowers the oxygen level. The process of rapid plant growth followed by increased activity by decomposers and a depletion of the oxygen level is called eutrophication. The following web site provides useful information in the management and care of Australian aquatic systems. http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/environmental_management/water/caring_for_our_water/

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8.5 BIODIVERSITY AND VEGETATION MANAGEMENT Biodiversity describes the variety of life including plants, animals, micro-organisms and the ecosystems they form. Loss of biodiversity is one of Australia’s most serious environmental problems, with severe losses occurring in many areas. “Our industries depend on healthy ecosystems to provide services that include nutrient and waste recycling, pollination from insects, sediment control, and clean water. Clearing of native vegetation, some grazing practices and inappropriate fertiliser use have contributed to a decline in water quality, ecosystem function and in biodiversity.” The summary above, from the Victorian Government website, provides a simple statement that alerts us to our responsibility regarding protecting biodiversity. Look at the following State and Australian government web sites for information and options related to biodiversity management: http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/vrosite.nsf/pages/lwm_biodiversity http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/series/paper6/bioch3.html http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/nature/landholderNotes12Biodiversity.pdf

8.6 SALINITY MANAGEMENT The Australian Governments National Dryland Salinity Program has determined that : • there is no one salinity “problem” • salinity costs are significant and rising • profitable options for “reversing trends” are lacking Improved land management options that increase perennial vegetation may remain the most likely means of attaining salinity management responses. Look at the following State and Australian government web sites for information and options related to salinity management: http://lwa.gov.au/files/products/national-dryland-salinity-program/px040647/px040647.pdf www.anra.gov.au/topics/salinity/management/index.html www.ndsp.gov.au

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9. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT IN DIFFICULT SITUATIONS

There are some situations that present more difficult challenges related to environmental management. These can include intensive industries such as feedlotting, or a collection of industries that may affect a particular region ie industries right next to a residential area such as vineyards, horticulture or industries affecting the Great Barrier Reef or other natural resources

9.1 FEEDLOT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT Feedlots must comply with the highest standards of environmental management. No feedlot is able to be constructed without an Environmental Impact Statement approved by the appropriate state government authority. In addition the Australian Lot Feeders Association (ALFA ) works closely with the industry on environmental issues and completes extensive research and development. The industry suffers misconceptions about the environmental sustainability of lot feeding and this has forced the sector to maintain extremely high standards of management, recording and compliance checking. An example of issues related to feedlotting is the possible intrusion of a large feedlot on the quality of life in a local community and environment. Feedlots recognise their duty in this respect and led by ALFA have formed the National Guidelines For Beef Cattle Feedlots in Australia. This code of practice not only guides the feedlot industry towards practices that are sustainable but is a requirement for accreditation under the annually audited National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme (NFAS). Log on to http://www.feedlots.com.au and click onto “Environment” This section is a useful learning tool as it relates to a highly regulated industry. Information provided relates to : • • • •

relevant government websites National guidelines for Beef Cattle Feedlots in Australia National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme issues related to clean water and climate change

The same types of issues will apply to highly regulated intensive horticulture industries.

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 ACTIVITY 10A If you are involved in an intensive livestock industry look at the ALFA website and make a list of the requirements to achieve accreditation under the annually audited National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme (NFAS).

9.2 THE GREAT BARRIER REEF The Great Barrier Reef’s environmental impacts that are being contributed to by various industries include significantly lowered water quality from runoff. Specific issues include: • suspended sediment • excess nutrients and pesticides • fluctuations in salinity Thirty major watercourses and hundreds of small streams comprise the Great Barrier Reef catchment area, which covers 423,000 square kilometres. 700 of the 3000 reefs are within a risk zone where water quality has declined owing to the naturally acidic sediment and chemical runoff from industry activities. Industries in the water catchment area are cotton growing, dairy farms, cattle grazing, horticulture including banana growing, sugarcane farming, and cropping of wheat, barley, sorghum and maize.

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The Australian and Queensland Governments have committed to act to protect the reef as have industries in the regions. Look at the Reefwise Farming website below. This is a fantastic resource and provides information on many different topics. www.reefwisefarming.qld.gov.au Some examples include: Record Keeping: Understanding the effectiveness of management practices by implementing an Environmental Risk Management Plan. This describes a set of actions undertaken to reduce the risk of sediment, fertilisers and chemicals leaving the property Fertilisers: Information on key requirements for sugarcane farmers to complete soil tests annually and then calculate and apply no more than optimum amounts to reduce the risk of runoff of excess nutrients Chemicals: Explains the new controls and training requirements for farmers in specific catchment areas that may affect the Barrier Reef In addition the site provides nutrient calculators, record keeping templates, fact sheets and special requirements for specific catchment areas.

 ACTIVITY 10B Even if you are not in a Barrier Reef catchment area the principles applied to the problems in this area are able to be applied to all geographic areas and industry sectors. Specifically the site explains the requirements for record keeping and sustainable and responsible use of chemicals and fertilisers. Spend some time looking at the web site. www.reefwisefarming.qld.gov.au Would you like a web site like this for your industry or geographic region?

Why would it be beneficial?

What information would you like included. Make a list here.

What useful tools are included on the website that you would be able to modify for your own use?

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10. MONITORING YOUR PERFORMANCE

The information provided in this workbook is really just the beginning. Successfully managing your environment means that you need to put together a series of steps over a long period of time. Sometimes it can be daunting to know “where, when and how much”. It is essential that we are all serious about our environmental responsibilities. It is wise to work together to ensure practices and work procedures are applicable and meaningful to your workplace. This will mean that work procedures are welcomed and implemented by all workplace members. When selecting which tool to utilise for monitoring you might look at: • • • •

what indicator type (land, water, vegetation, and air)? which local catchment does the enterprise exist in? what are the environmental concerns of that catchment? what element of sustainability (eg. soil loss, soil toxicity, water quality, biodiversity, air quality, profitability)?

It is important to properly search until appropriate management tools are found as whatever is used should be practical, simple and provide real ways to measure improvement in production and the environment. his website below is the home page for the following links and also contains a large amount of research information. There is a ‘search’ facility in the top right hand corner of the home page which is also very useful. The following links are provided as guides to suitable plans and tools. http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/home Groundcover/Soil Erosion – http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/soil-water/erosion/ groundcovering-measuring-tool Soil Fertility – http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/business-management/ems-invictorian-agriculture/environmental-monitoring-tools/soil-fertility Soil Structure – http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/soil-water/soil/soilstructure-monitoring-tools Soil Acidity – http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/business-management/ems-invictorian-agriculture/environmental-monitoring-tools/soil-acidity Templates and information for Environmental Management Plan – http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farmingmanagement/business-management/ems-in-victorian-agriculture/stage-two-ems

 ACTIVITY 11 Complete some research and select 2 management/monitoring tools that would be suitable to apply to your workplace What have you selected?

Why do you think they are suited to your workplace?

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11. LEGISLATION AND PLANNING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Every business, workplace and industry sector has various forms of legislation, regulation, codes of practice, council by laws and compliance requirements they must abide by. It is your responsibility to be aware of legal requirements and the impact they have on the way in which you complete your daily work tasks Legislative requirements must be considered for: • • • •

the business and its workers the community the natural resources including native vegetation, land clearing, water movement local council regulations

Each State or Territory and local council/shire will have different legislation which applies to land owners and people working on the land. Applicable legislation could include: • • • • • • • •

The Development Act of 1993 The Soil Conservation and Land Care Act 1989 The Pastoral Land Management Act 1989 The Water Resources Act 1997 The Animal and Plant Control Act 1986 and The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 Dangerous Goods Act Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code (Advet Code) Act 1994

These regulations or laws are important for ensuring long term healthy and productive land. Abiding by them also helps build friendly communities.

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 ACTIVITY 12 For each of the situations below list the appropriate action for your state/council region so that you meet regulatory requirements and how this compliance is met in your workplace. Activity Chemical spill Water pollution Disposal of waste Soil erosion Damage to natural habitats through work practices Pest animals Pest weeds Unauthorised changes in land use Unacceptable fire risk management Illegal vegetation clearing Illegal water use

Regulatory requirement

Workplace compliance

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12. BEING CONFIDENT

ABOUT YOUR SKILL LEVELS IN THE WORKPLACE

After finishing all of the activities in this workbook you should be able to competently complete final summative assessments. Do you feel that you are confident about your skill levels in the workplace related to environmental management? Use the table below to help you check your skills. Before commencing your final assessments it is important to review any sections in which you feel unsure. Remember: it is always OK to ask your supervisor or your assessor questions. In the table below, read the list of skills and knowledge you should have after completing this workbook • Put a tick in the column if you can do this now and a brief comment re why you believe you have this skill • Put a tick in the next column if you feel you need more practice and a brief comment as to why • If you require further training, complete the third column listing what training is needed. Show this list to your supervisor or assessor and ask for more time or training before completing the summative assessments

Skills /knowledge you should have

Can identify how your workplace affects the environment Do you know how to follow work procedures that minimise waste Do you know what natural resources can be used in your workplace Do you know how to ask questions clarify work instructions and procedures Do you know how to identify environmental hazards in the workplace Do you know how to report environmental hazards in the workplace Do you know how to respond positively to changes in work procedures and practices Do you know how to raise environmental issues and make suggestions to improve work practices

I can do this now

I need more practice and must review this before final assessment

What additional training do I need

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13. ASSESSMENT All of the information and activities you have covered apply to the skills related to environmental management in a business or job specifically working with natural resources. Please ask your assessor for the final assessment/s for this workbook.



 FEEDBACK This workbook has been developed to guide users to access current information related to gaining skills appropriate to their workplace. Please complete the following table notifying us of any errors or suggested improvements. Subject Name

Monitor Environmental Work Practices

Book Number

Book 2

Page What is the error 10

You tube video is not accurate

Suggested improvement Better websites / You Tube example

Is there a link to your suggested improvement

Additional comments



Click here to email your completed workbook to your assessor.

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14. BIBLIOGRAPHY AND USEFUL WEBSITES

State Departments of Agriculture: Dept of Environment, Water, Heritage and Arts – www.environment.gov.au Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Australia – http://www.daff.gov.au New South Wales Agriculture – www.agric.nsw.gov.au Department of Industries and Fisheries, Northern Territory – http://www.nt.gov.au/d/ Department of Natural Resources Queensland – http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/ Department of Primary Industries Queensland – www.dpi.qld.gov.au Primary Industries and Resources South Australia – http://www.pir.sa.gov.au Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment Tasmania – http://www.dpiw.tas.gov.au Department Of Primary Industries Victoria – www.dpi.vic.gov.au Department Of Sustainability and Environment Victoria – www.dse.vic.gov.au Agriculture Western Australia – www.agric.wa.gov.au

Other Websites Birchip Cropping Group “Moving into No Till” – www.bcg.org.au/cb_pages/images/5708%20BCG%20Fact%20 sheet%20Moving%20into%20No-till%20Final%20.pdf Red Meat Green Facts – http://www.redmeatgreenfacts.com.au/Home Preventing spray drift – http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790_4909.htm Australian Lot Feeders’ Association – http://www.feedlots.com.au Reef Wise Farming – www.reefwisefarming.qld.gov.au Department of Primary Industries – www.dpi.vic.gov.au/science/ems Land Victoria – http://www.land.vic.gov.au/DPI/nrensr.nsf/93a98744f6ec41bd4a256c8e00013aa9/60ab19c789ae2dc3 ca2574ce002779a4/$FILE/Section%205%20padd%20record%20keeping.pdf www.pir.sa.gov.au/biosecuritysa/.../chemical_trespass_spray_drift http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/environmental_management/water/caring_for_our_water/ www.ndsp.gov.au

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