Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
J/617/5718
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
24 hours

Aim

The aim of this unit is to develop a learner’s understanding of health and safety in the workplace and the typical hazards and risks which can be found in a logistics environment.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand accidents which occur within a logistics environment.

  • Common types of accidents
    Falls from vehicles; being hit by a moving vehicle; security of loads; manual handling, slips and trips; noise; working at height.
  • Effect of accident
    Employee – death; serious injury; stress; loss of employment; disablement; redeployed; long term sickness; loss of pay.
    Business – criminal investigation; internal investigation; revisit risk assessments; pay compensation; loss of productivity; pay fines; redesign working environment; invest in equipment.
  • Business response
    Investigate the cause; prevent further accidents; inform insurance company; inform regulators (if applicable); inform Health and Safety Executive (if necessary); update accident records.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Describe common types of accidents in a logistic environment.

  • 1.2

    Explain how accidents in a logistics environment could affect employees and a business.

  • 1.3

    Explain how a business should respond to accidents in a logistics environment.


2

Understand the importance of protecting people from accidents in a logistics environment.

  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
    Specialised clothing worn by employees to protect against potential or real hazards and risks.
    Goggles and shields are used to protect eyes; ear plugs and ear muffs are used to protect hearing; creams and gloves to protect hands and skin; reinforced boots and shoes to protect feet; hard hats, caps and helmets to protect the head.
  • Benefit to a business
    Demonstrates consideration of employees; can improve moral and motivation; PPE reduces injury which reduces time off through sickness; productivity should be maintained; fewer injuries; comply with legislation; aid staff recruitment and retention; improve reputation (a caring employer).

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Explain why personal protective equipment is used in a logistics environment.

  • 2.2

    Explain how providing personal protective equipment can be a benefit to a business.


3

Understand health and safety policies and procedures in a logistics environment.

  • Impact of the Health and Safety at Work Act
    Employers are required to provide and maintain safety equipment and safe systems of work; ensure materials are properly stored; provide information, training, instruction and supervision; provide a safe working environment; provide a written safety policy; conduct risk assessments.

  • Policy and procedure
    Provide clear direction; indicates business’ commitment to health and safety; indicates business’ support for employees; translates regulatory requirements into organisational direction; specifically indicates who is responsible for health and safety; provides processes to follow in the event of health and safety incidents. 

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Explain how the Health and Safety at Work Act impacts on employer responsibilities in a logistics environment.

  • 3.2

    Explain why it is important for a logistics business to have a health and safety policy and procedure.


4

Understand responsibilities for self and others health and safety in a logistics environment.

  • Importance of personal well-being
    To remain fit and healthy; to reduce workplace stress; to be able to complete tasks; to improve effectiveness and efficiency; to avoid injuries and accidents; to comply with regulatory requirements; to indicate responsibility for own safety.

  • Maintaining own workspace
    Important for avoiding accidents and maintaining effective and efficient productivity; ensures rubbish is disposed of correctly, avoids hazards such as fire; avoid damage to tools and equipment.
    Throw away rubbish correctly; clean work area at least daily; don’t eat at place of work; don’t stock pile (e.g. packing tape and boxes); follow organisational guidelines; reduce clutter; store equipment safely.
  • Maintaining equipment
    In accordance with specific manufacturer’s instructions; in accordance with organisational policies and procedures; daily checks; weekly checks; monthly checks; annual servicing.

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    Explain why personal wellbeing is important in a logistics environment.

  • 4.2

    Explain why maintaining own workspace in a clean and tidy condition is important in a logistics environment.

  • 4.3

    Explain how to maintain different items of equipment in good working order.