SECTION 2: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTENTS

Transcription

1 SECTION 2: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY CONTENTS 2.1 INTRODUCTION SAFETY IN DESIGN REVIEWS FOR BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES General Buildings & Structures requiring Safety in Design Reviews Design stages at which SiD reviews should be completed SiD Review Process GENERAL Building Access Wall Fitments Flammable Liquid Stores Gas Cylinder Storage Portable Fire Extinguishers Safety Stations Safety Showers Emergency Eye-Wash Stations Safety Signs Asbestos / Hazards RADIATION PROTECTION Radiation Control ERGONOMIC GUIDELINES Background Office Administration Areas Reception Areas / Enquiries Counters/ Student Centre Counters Laboratories - Computer Laboratories - Experimental Meeting Rooms - Standard and Executive Teaching and Learning Spaces Libraries Collaborative Learning Areas Information Management Receiving Areas Waste Storage and Handling SEATING SPECIFICATIONS Chair Criteria 37 Design Standards page 1 of 43

2 2.6.2 General Notes and Requirements 42 DESIGN STANDARDS CHANGE LOG FEBRAURY Radiation Background The section on ergonomic guidelines was incorrectly formatted under Section 2.4 Radiation (the Ergonomic Guidelines heading has been incorrectly deleted) it should be under its own heading Ergonomic Guidelines. 2.5 Ergonomic Guidelines 9 New Section 2.5 Ergonomic Guidelines heading has been created and the index page updated. 2.6 Seating Specifications 37 New Task Chair supplier reference added: Refer to Section Chairs for details of preferred Task Chair suppliers. All references to previous Section 2.5 have been changed to Section 2.6, due to new section numbering for the ergonomic guidelines section. Design Standards page 2 of 43

3 2.1 INTRODUCTION The Occupational, Health & Safety Unit (OH &SU) is responsible for monitoring implementation of all the relevant Acts, Regulations and Codes of Practice dealing with occupational health and safety at the University. The Project Architect and Consultants, in designing the building and the Contractor during the construction process, shall adhere to all the relevant Acts, Regulations, and Codes of Practice, the University of Melbourne Occupational Health and Safety Manual and the Safe Work Procedures Manual to ensure the safety of all legitimate use of University s premises. Important considerations must be adhered to in the early and other stages of any design with regard to occupational health and safety practices as set down by Work Safe Victoria in their publication, Officewise: A guide to health and safety in the office. It is available on the website Consultants must also be aware of their obligations to carry out risk assessments during the design phase for work areas as per Section 28 OH&S Act SAFETY IN DESIGN REVIEWS FOR BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES General A number of jurisdictions have included safety in design requirements in their occupational health and safety legislation. This legislation is designed to ensure that hazards and risks that may exist in the design of a workplace are eliminated or controlled at the design stage, as far as reasonably practicable. Regardless of whether there is a legislated requirement for Safety in Design (SiD) in place, there is a requirement to provide a workplace that is safe and without risk as far as reasonably practicable. Safety in design is a process defined as the integration of hazard identification and risk assessment methods early in the design process to eliminate or minimise the risks of injury throughout the life of the building or structure being designed. It encompasses all design including facilities, hardware, systems, equipment, products, tooling, materials, energy controls, layout and configuration. A safe design approach begins in the conceptual and planning phases with an emphasis on making choices about design, materials used and methods of manufacture or construction to enhance the safety of the finished product. The designer needs to consider how safety can best be achieved in each of the lifecycle phases. The most effective risk control measure eliminating the hazard is often cheaper and more practical to achieve at the design or planning stage, rather than making changes later when the hazards become real risks to University s, users, employees and businesses. The direct costs associated with unsafe design can be significant, such as retrofitting, workers compensation and insurance levies, environmental clean ups and negligence claims Buildings & Structures requiring Safety in Design Reviews SiD reviews should be completed for works associated with the following: Buildings /structures to be used as workplaces; Buildings/structures that are occasional workplaces; Parts of the building/structure including fixtures integral to its use as a workplace; Design Standards page 3 of 43

4 Temporary structures; Roads and footpaths. It will be noted that the above scope is broad in nature, and it should be assumed unless confirmed otherwise, that any design where it can be reasonably expected that people may need to work within, on, or around the building or structure, either as an end-user and/or maintainer of the building or structure, then a SiD review should be completed Design stages at which SiD reviews should be completed SiD reviews should be completed as early in the design process as practicable, and at each design phase, such as: Pre-design (sitting, feasibility study); Conceptual and schematic design; Design development; Construction documentation; Construction, refurbishment or modification. Although it is recommended to review the design at each design stage, it doesn t require a completely new review (i.e. only review items that have changed since the previous review). Who should participate in SiD Reviews? Sid review participants can include the following: Designers (e.g. building, industrial, landscape, interior); Architects; People who will be using the building/structure as a workplace; People who will be constructing the building/structure; People who will be maintaining the building/structure. It is recommended that at each SiD review a representative from each of the above project stakeholder groups is in attendance, or is given the opportunity to contribute prior to the review SiD Review Process The SiD review process is defined in the following diagram: Design Standards page 4 of 43

5 SiD reviews should identify and control hazards and risks associated with the following: The range of work activities associated with the intended use of the building/structure as a workplace, including fixtures integral to its use as a workplace; Any maintenance, repair, service and cleaning activities for the building/structure when it is in use: The construction of the building/structure i.e. to make the design safer to build; The designer should identify and control hazards and risks associated with the above activities, and inform the University of any high risks in the University s design requirements, and recommend design alternatives that will eliminate or reduce risks arising from the original design; Outputs from the SiD review should include the following: A SiD review risk register should be developed for the design. The following information should be considered for inclusion (as appropriate): Design related hazards; Area / location of risk exposure; Description of Hazard and Risk Exposure, including existing design control measures; Estimation of base risk i.e. risk level associated with the identified design-related hazard prior to the inclusion of any additional design control measures: Any additional design control measures. Estimation of residual risk i.e. risk level associated with the identified designrelated hazard after the inclusion of any additional design control measures: Further Actions. The findings of the SiD review should be communicated to the University, with the understanding that the University will ensure that this information is provided to all relevant persons. 2.3 GENERAL Building Access The design of all new buildings and major refurbishment projects shall address the requirements of The University of Melbourne Disabilities Action Plan in response to the Disability Discrimination Act (1992), a copy of which can be obtained from the University s Manager (Engineering and Infrastructure). The building design shall accommodate the following: A ramped entrance, in accordance with the relevant Australian Standard; In multistorey buildings provided with lifts, at least one lift shall have the capacity to accommodate an injured person on a stretcher. The lift shall be of sufficient size to accommodate the moving of furniture and equipment between floors; Access through doorways, corridors and between fixtures shall be such that mechanical aids can be used for materials handling, in accordance with the relevant Codes. Design Standards page 5 of 43

6 2.3.2 Wall Fitments All wall-mounted fitments shall be designed to prevent personal injuries from failure of components. Where shelf units have weight limitations that can readily be exceeded, a maximum loading label shall be displayed. Glass display cabinets, including glass doors, track and locking mechanisms, shall comply with all safety standards. Where chemicals are to be stored on shelves the following shall apply: The shelf height of shelves over benches shall not be more than 1.5 metres from the floor; Shelving systems including finishes shall be compatible with the chemicals to be stored, or shall be suitably protected from them; Shelving systems shall be designed for the maximum holding capacity of the chemical packages Flammable Liquid Stores An appropriate automatic fire extinguishing flood system shall be provided in accordance with current practice e.g. carbon dioxide system. Construction of the flammable liquid store shall be in accordance with the current Statutory Regulations and relevant Australian Standards, AS1940, AS Flammable Liquid Indoor Storage Cabinets Where the use of flammable liquid indoor storage cabinets has been specified, they shall be supplied and installed in accordance with the relevant Australian Standard. Attention is drawn to the provision within the Standard with respect to cabinet separation and ventilation, together with ignition sources requirements AS Gas Cylinder Storage Where allowed by the Statutory Authority, it is preferred that gas cylinders are stored in a loading bay with one or more sides, or a roof, open to the atmosphere. This storage shall be provided with the necessary segregation of particular gases and means of securing cylinders against falling. It will be necessary to safe-guard them from external damage from motor vehicles and to provide protection from sunlight. Where practicable, gas cylinders which are connected to consuming apparatus shall be located outside the building AS Portable Fire Extinguishers The Project Architect shall document the correct number and location of appropriate fire extinguishers after discussion with the User Department and the University s Occupational Health & Safety Unit, AS1841 and AS2444. The selection of fire extinguishers depends on: expected fire, size and propagation; construction and occupancy of property; special risk to be protected; extremes of temperature expected; reliability and availability of other manual or automatic fire fighting equipment; expected time for fire brigade to arrive; expertise and capacity of likely user. Design Standards page 6 of 43

7 Location of fire extinguishers and fire blankets: in conspicuous and readily accessible position; between 2 to 20 meters from hazard; along normal paths of travel; well signed; well supported (maximum weight 23kg). Health considerations: Carbon dioxide extinguishers should not be used in confined spaces; Water extinguishers should not be used for electrically energised equipment; Ammonium phosphate dry chemical extinguishers are not to be used for cooking oils or fats. The Contractor is required to supply and fix all extinguishers under the main contract. References: AS1940 AS2441 AS AS2982 AS AS2444 AS Safety Stations Storage of Flammables Fire Hose Reels Automatic Fire Detectors Laboratory Construction Laboratory Safety Personal Fire Extinguishers Fume Hoods In addition to the safety equipment held in the laboratory, an area at the entrance to each main laboratory, or laboratory complex, shall be reserved for a safety station containing the following safety equipment, each item clearly labelled with its name and safety function: Safety glasses and face shields; Safety helmet; Disposable clothing; Fire extinguishers (suitable for electrical and chemical fires); Fire blanket manufactured in accordance with the relevant Australian Standard; Absorbent materials for chemical spills; Protective gloves (e.g. heat-resistant, chemical resistant); Torch of appropriate type. A flameproof type torch is required where flammable vapours are released; Hearing protection; Design Standards page 7 of 43

8 Properly maintained self-contained breathing apparatus, where appropriate: AS3833, AS3961, AS4081, AS4326, AS4332, AS4452, AS4681, AS1596, AS1894, AS1940, AS2022, AS2507, AS , AS2714, AS2927, AS Safety Showers At least one safety shower shall be installed where chemical, corrosive or flammable substances are used. Note: This may be a drench-type shower, a hand-held spray, or other type as appropriate to the hazards of the particular laboratory. There shall be not more than 10m travel distance to such devices from any point in the laboratory. These devices, and their actuating mechanisms, shall be located so that the approach to them is unobstructed and comply with AS Emergency Eye-Wash Stations An eye-wash facility of appropriate type shall be installed in each room where chemical, corrosive, or flammable substances are used or handled. A permanently fixed aerated type, which can be operated without using hands, is preferred. Provision shall be made to drain or restrain any excess water from these devices Safety Signs All safety equipment and facilities shall be clearly sign-posted in accordance with the relevant Australian Standards. There should be provision of a notice board for highlighting safety issues (AS1319) Asbestos / Hazards Prior to commencing building works on any area of the campus the design team shall seek to establish and make reference to any existing, relevant asbestos / hazard audit information for the building or area. A Part 6 Hazard Audit is to be undertaken in accordance with OH&S Regulations 2007 (part 4.3 Asbestos). Generally, any known asbestos removal work shall occur prior to the letting of the construction contract, alternatively the works may be detailed and included in the head contractor s tender. Options are at the University s Manager (Engineering and Infrastructure) discretion. Conditions of removal or otherwise are detailed in the booklet Special Conditions of Contract, copies of which may be obtained from the University s Manager (Engineering and Infrastructure). 2.4 RADIATION PROTECTION Radiation Control The design and subsequent working procedures within buildings shall comply with the Victorian Radiation Act 2005 and associated Radiation Regulation 2007 (which are amended from time to time); the appropriate Codes of Practice issued by The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA); and the relevant Australian Standard and Codes of Practices. All facilities containing radioactive sources shall be identified by the appropriate design. The Occupational Health & Safety Unit (OH&S Unit) shall be consulted during the preparatory planning stages. Any system capable of emitting ionising radiation or radioactive materials shall not be used without the specific written permission from the OH&S Unit. Design Standards page 8 of 43

9 2.5 ERGONOMIC GUIDELINES Background The following Ergonomic Design Standards have been developed by the University of Melbourne Occupational Health and Safety Unit to provide guidance to all personnel involved in the design of University of Melbourne buildings, spaces and facilities and the selection of furniture, fittings and equipment. The information in this section has been derived from a number of best available sources. These include relevant current Australian Standards, guidance material and compliance codes, anthropometric research data and the ergonomic expertise of the University of Melbourne OH&S staff. Australian Standards set out basic requirements for the design, development and use of equipment, furniture and plant. They provide purchasing authorities, designers, architects, users and manufacturers with a standard that specifies function, durability, stability and performance and enables use of these criteria to assist in selection and evaluation. Since there is some variation between the requirements outlined in the Standards, the University of Melbourne OH&S Unit s expertise has been utilised. Anthropometric data gives information about the human body dimensions of the user population. Anthropometry is fundamental to the concept of human centred design. As there is limited available anthropometric data relevant to the Australian population, data from a range of other populations has been considered. This data source has been not been utilised in a prescriptive manner, but rather as a guide to support the Australian Standards and confirm what is deemed logical and functional design. Applying human centred ergonomic design to all key areas within The University of Melbourne will not only optimise user comfort, health and safety, it will assist The University of Melbourne as an employer and those responsible for design of spaces and purchasing of equipment to fulfil their duty of care to provide a healthy and safe working environment for all users under occupational health and safety legislation and common law. Under Section 21 of the OHS Act the employer must provide a 'working environment that is safe and without risks to health' for all users of a space. Ergonomics plays a key role in productive and safe processes, optimal comfort and performance, minimisation of illness, injury and errors by ensuring that the dimensions, clearances, space, layout, efforts, visibility and a range of other factors incorporated in designs are matched to human capabilities and limitations. In the University environment items of furniture and or equipment are rarely used by only one individual. Most furniture and equipment used are intended for a broad range of users and should therefore accommodate the physical variations of this broad range of users. The design ideal is to provide for adjustability and use anthropometric data to determine the upper and lower limits for the range of adjustments. When measurements are taken from a target population for a particular design, a midpoint (termed the 50th "percentile") divides users into two groups - one above and one below the "average". In order to accommodate most users it is logical to use this midpoint/average number when determining physical workstation design and dimensions. Where a dimension range is the regulatory requirement, the midpoint should generally be selected. If all users cannot be accommodated because there are conflicting solutions to the design, a judgment must be made about what the most important feature is and who the primary user group will be. The University of Melbourne will endeavor to make any reasonable adjustments within the spirit of the disability legislation to accommodate users with special needs. However, it is not acceptable to create unreasonable hardship for the majority of users in doing so. In the event that it is not possible to Design Standards page 9 of 43

10 incorporate adjustability into designs, alternative workstations may need to be considered for users with special needs. Whilst it is acknowledged that this may not be ideal, comfort and safety for all is the highest priority and this should not be compromised. As each project will present a range of different design challenges, and some projects will have unique requirements, it is not possible to be prescriptive regarding exact measurements in all instances or applications. This is particularly so in the laboratory environment. Consultation with the user group to determine their specific work requirements is critical to ensuring that optimum design and usability outcomes are achieved on every project. This is a live document and will require updating as new Standards and other relevant publications become available Office Administration Areas Space and General Physical Layout There is no legislated minimum space for office accommodation. Commonwealth Building Standards cite 5sqm per person for general office requirements. For open plan areas involving offices and incorporating corridors, shared storage, amenities, etc. the general recommendation is for up to 10sqm per person. This satisfies the Australian Standard AS (2002) which recommends an overall 10 square metres per person for building ventilation purposes. In all situations, the functional needs of the user (personal space, technology needs, requirement for other equipment and materials, visitors, meeting chairs, etc). must be considered. Layout design should ensure the following: All facilities and amenities must be in accordance with The Building Code of Australia and provide access and usability for disabled users; All major corridors with storage units along one side: minimum width 1500mm; All secondary corridors, frequent use in open plan areas: minimum width1200mm; Passageways, entrances to workstations or offices: minimum width 1000mm; Minimum recommended widths for disabled access ways is an unobstructed width of 1000mm AS ; Head to head distances (i.e. the distance between heads of adjacent workstation users) should be a minimum of 1500mm to ensure minimisation of noise and functional interference and to provide adequate functional, mobility and personal space requirements; Furniture should be free of sharp edges, corners, points or protrusions; Floor surfaces that are stable, firm, slip resistant, dark in colour and not glossy (less than 20% reflectance). Wool mix carpets are preferable as they reduce the build up of static electricity which can be felt as a mild electric shock. In the event that trolleys /equipment must be wheeled over floors, low pile carpet should be fitted; Walls should have 50-75% reflectance and a semi-gloss finish; Ceilings should have high reflectance (i.e. reflecting approximately 80% of light); Lighting must be adequate for the tasks being undertaken. The appropriate number of lights must be installed at the appropriate distances to ensure evenness, comfortable visibility and no shadows at task viewing level. A Design Standards page 10 of 43

11 combination of writing and reading and computer based tasks require a level of Lux. This is generally considered to suit most users. Lighting installation should be undertaken with consideration to optimum workstation orientation and existing window location. Workstations should be positioned so that fluorescent ceiling light tubes are parallel to the worker's line of sight when engaged at the workstation and not in front of or directly overhead. This is particularly important if departing from the more traditional fluorescent styles (which most closely resemble natural light and are therefore easiest on the eye). Highly reflective casings of fluorescent lights must not be positioned in the user s line of sight as they can represent a source of disability/discomfort glare. Monitors should not be positioned directly in front of or behind windows and incoming natural light sources affecting visual comfort should be controlled with blinds, louvres or other suitable window coverings. Noise exposure should not exceed dba. If hard surfaces which reflect noise (e.g. timber and glass) are used extensively, consideration may need to be given to installation of sound absorbing structures or materials. Temperature and air quality levels must be well controlled and/or regulated and must be compliant with the relevant standards C is the recommended ambient office temperature. Perception of thermal comfort will vary enormously between individuals. Avoid locating workstations directly in front of or below air conditioning outlets. Noisy printing or photocopying equipment should be isolated in separate rooms with adequate ventilation. Stairways and walkways must be designed in accordance with AS/NZ1657. All signage in buildings must be compliant with AS/NZ All buildings must be fitted with the required emergency equipment and systems in accordance with AS 1603 series. Desk Design and Dimensions The preferred design is a corner L shaped workstation with a built in diagonal section (or a curve) at the apex. This design provides greater flexibility for PC location, accommodates both left and right hand users, and offers 40% more useable space than a rectangular desk. They can also be arranged in a cluster fashion to facilitate cable management. L shaped workstations with a 90 degree corner angle supplied with a detachable keyboard lozenge are less preferred. The application of the lozenge creates a height differential which interferes with optimal mouse navigation, positioning and technique. Rectangular desks provide less flexibility but are acceptable particularly for single tasks, e.g. computer based operation, provided they are a minimum of 800mm deep. There should be no separately adjustable keyboard shelf or cut out sections in the desk top. A single work surface is recommended. Levellator legs should be provided under main legs to workstation. Where a modesty panel is required, it should finish no greater than 400mm from the floor when the work surface is in the highest position. Surface: The desk top surface should be smooth, light in colour and a non reflective, matt or satin finish. Certain surfaces such as transparent, glossy and recurring Design Standards page 11 of 43

12 patterned surfaces interfere with optical mouse tracking operation and should be avoided. Height of desk designed for sitting: If fixed: 680mm to 720mm above floor level; If adjustable: 610mm to 760mm above floor level. Height of desk designed for standing: If fixed: 950mm above floor level; If adjustable: 900mm to 1100mm above floor level. Area of desk surface: Length: 1600mm minimum. For users performing multiple functions clerical plus computer -1800mm or 2100mm length may be required; Depth: 750mm minimum for main section of L-shaped desk, 700mm minimum for return, 800mm minimum for rectangular desks; Desk top thickness: 25mm to 33mm. Volume of leg space under desk: Width: 800mm minimum; Knee space depth: 450mm minimum; Leg space depth (measured 120mm above the floor): 600mm minimum; Height (under desk): 645mm minimum. Space above desk: A clear space of 700mm above the height of the desk top to a depth of minimum 700mm where the monitor is positioned must be available for the monitor to be raised. Desk strength: AS/NZS requires desk should be designed to withstand up to 90 kg loads. Certification to Independent Agency Standards such as AFRDI (Australian Furniture, Research and Design Institute) should be requested from the manufacturer. Monitors A flat screen style should be selected. In the event dual screens are required, the main screen should be positioned centrally and the accessory screen immediately adjacent. When selecting monitors, height adjustment must be considered to suit a range of users. It is preferable to select monitors with an inbuilt height adjustment range. Alternatively a separate monitor stand may be required. The CPU should be located in a tower holder at one end of the leg space (refer minimum leg width requirement) or alternatively positioned under the monitor on the desktop provided this does not elevate the top of the monitor above seated eye height. Viewing distance to monitor screen: If screen is to be fixed it should be positioned approximately arms reach from user for optimal visual comfort; 350mm: minimum from front edge of desk; Design Standards page 12 of 43

13 750mm: maximum from front edge of desk; Maximum height of monitor screen: 10mm to 40mm below eye level. Monitor screen adjustability: Partitioning Provision for adjustability should preferably be an integral part of the m not Monitor however adjustability can be alternatively achieved via an arm mount or elevated platform. Adjustability should be achievable by hand without the use of tools whilst seated and the monitor must be stable throughout the range of adjustment. Vertical height range of adjustment should be 150mm. Monitor screen tilt and rotation should be possible. If partitioning is used, the height should be between 1100mm and 1350mm between seated members of work teams and 1500mm for standing workstations. Partitions are designed to offer privacy and are not highly effective in reducing noise however material should be fabric to maximize sound absorbency. The partition colour should be neutral, not black or brightly coloured, and should contrast with the desk top colour. Shelving attached to partitioning should be adjustable and must not impede monitor height adjustability. Partitions higher than 1500mm are not recommended for open plan offices. Cable Management Cabling to monitor and telephone should be long enough to enable optimal layout (taking into consideration the requirement for dual screens), loomed neatly to avoid entanglement and be clear of the floor. Cables should be accessible to computer technicians. Wiring and cabling and services shall comply with relevant standards. Seating Requirements Select appropriate seating from Appendix 1; Chair recommendations for specific user groups. Mobile Pedestals Certified to AS ; GECA is preferable. Features: Constructed of sturdy materials and stable. Must not tip when fully loaded. When located under an adjustable height workstation, must be of a sufficient height so as not to impede full range of vertical adjustment. Drawer handles which accommodate the user s four fingers (115mm wide and between 30 and 50mm deep), D-ring style preferred. Be located so they can be opened, closed and locked from the normal operating position without encroaching on leg room. Storage Storage shelves must be robust, stable and well secured. Bookcases should generally be no higher than 2100mm. However, if higher, must be fixed to the wall. Design Standards page 13 of 43

14 Shelving should be designed so heavier and more frequently used items can be located within the optimal reach zone (i.e. shoulder to mid thigh range). Only light items (easily lifted with one hand) should be stored above shoulder. Higher shelving must accommodate a safe means of climbing to the required level of storage, i.e. sufficient space to use (and store) an approved step ladder. Filing cabinets, lockers and shelves should not be located where they encroach into walkways. Filing cabinets require approximately 1200mm of space in front of them to enable the bottom drawer to be fully opened and accessed. Filing cabinets must be on a level floor to ensure that the drawers open and close easily. They should be secured to the wall or floor to ensure that they do not tip when the top drawer is open. For more extensive guidelines on storage see section Information Management. References AS , The use of ventilation and air conditioning in buildings. Ventilation Design AS2107, Acoustics; Recommended Design Sound Levels and Reverberation Times for Building Interiors AS2822, Acoustics: Methods of assessing and predicting speech privacy and speech intelligibility Occupational Health and Safety (Noise Regulations), 2004 Guide for Assessing and Fixing Noise Problems at Work, 2005 AS/NZS 1680, Interior and workplace lighting. Part 1: General Principles and recommendations AS/NZS 1680: Interior and workplace lighting. Part 2.1: Specific Applications- Circulation spaces and other areas AS/NZS 1680: Interior and workplace lighting. Part 2.2: Specific Applications- Office and screen based tasks AS Design for access and mobility. Part 1 General Requirements for access New building work AS Design for access and mobility. Part 2 Enhanced and additional requirements Buildings and facilities AS/NZS Slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces. Guide to the reduction of slip hazards AS/NZS Slip resistance measurement of existing of pedestrian materials AS/NZS Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surfaces AS/NZS 1603 Series Fire detection and Alarm systems AS/NZS Emergency Escape lighting and exit signs for buildings. System design installation and operation AS/NZS Fixed platforms walkways, stairways and ladders. Design, construction and installation. AS/NZS 4443: 1997 Office panel systems workstations AS/NZS 4442:1997 Office desks AS/NZS 4438:1997 Height adjustable swivel chairs Design Standards page 14 of 43

15 AS3590.1:1990 Screen-based workstations. Part 1: Visual display units AS3590.2: 1990 Screen-based workstations. Part 3: Input Devices Worksafe Australia Publication, Ergonomic Principles and Checklists for the selection of Office Furniture and Equipment, 1991 Worksafe Victoria Publication, Officewise A guide for health and safety in the office, Reception Areas / Enquiries Counters/ Student Centre Counters Space and General Physical Layout Requirements In all situations the functional needs of the user group (i.e. personal space, technology needs, requirement for other equipment and materials, customers, visitors etc) must be considered. Layout / design should include the following: All facilities and amenities must be in accordance with The Building Code of Australia and provide access and usability for disabled users; All major corridors with storage units along one side: minimum width 1500mm; All secondary corridors frequent use in open plan areas: minimum width1200mm; Passageways, entrances to workstations or offices: minimum width 1000mm; Minimum recommended widths for disabled access ways is an unobstructed width of 1000mm AS ; There should be a minimum of 1000mm circulation space behind the counter to allow users space to move, access drawers etc; Seated administration workstations located behind the counter/reception must be have a clear sight line to the counter; Furniture should be free of sharp edges, corners, points or protrusions; Floor surfaces must be stable, firm, slip resistant, dark in colour and not glossy (less than 20% reflectance). Wool mix carpets are preferable as they reduce the build up of static electricity which can be felt as a mild electric shock. In the event that trolleys /equipment must be wheeled over floors, low pile carpet should be fitted; Walls should have 50-75% reflectance and a semi gloss finish; Ceilings should have high reflectance (reflecting approximately 80% of light); Lighting must be adequate for the tasks being undertaken. The appropriate number of lights must be installed at the appropriate distances to ensure evenness, comfortable visibility and no shadows at task viewing level. A combination of writing and reading and computer based tasks require a level of Lux. This is generally considered to suit most users; Lighting installation should be undertaken with consideration to optimum workstation orientation and existing window location. Workstations should be positioned so that fluorescent ceiling light tubes are parallel to the worker's line of sight when engaged at the workstation and not in front of or directly overhead. This is particularly important if departing from the more traditional fluorescent styles (which most closely resemble natural light and are therefore easiest on the eye); Design Standards page 15 of 43

16 Highly reflective casings of fluorescent lights must not be positioned in the user s line of sight as they can represent a source of disability/discomfort glare; Monitors should not be positioned directly in front of or behind windows and incoming natural light sources affecting visual comfort should be controlled with blinds, louvers or other suitable window coverings; Noise exposure should not exceed 65 dba. If hard surfaces which reflect noise e.g. -timber and glass are used extensively, consideration may need to be given to installation of sound absorbing structures or materials; Temperature and air quality levels must be well controlled and/or regulated and must be compliant with the relevant standards. 22 degrees C is the recommended ambient office temperature. Perception of thermal comfort will vary enormously between individuals. Avoid locating workstations directly in front of or below air conditioning outlets; Noisy printing or photocopying equipment should be isolated in separate rooms with adequate ventilation; Consideration may need to be given to the installation of duress buttons or physical barriers to prevent climbing or reaching over the counter; Noisy printing or photocopying equipment should be isolated in separate rooms with adequate ventilation. Counter Design and Dimensions The design of the counter must take into account the nature of the work tasks being undertaken at it. All counter top surfaces should be smooth, light or neutral in colour and a non reflective, matt or satin finish. Recurring patterns or translucent desk surfaces are not recommended as they interfere with optical mouse operation. For enquiry counters or service desks where there is a regular requirement for the worker and patron to simultaneously view a monitor screen see section Monitor. Height: If fixed: 950mm above floor level (AS/NZS ); If adjustable: 900mm to 1100mm above floor level; This height is intended to accommodate most users in a standing posture however an adjustable height stool (and high footrest-see note below) should be provided if long periods of work at the counter are required. This will enable roughly equal eye level positions with the customer. Counter Hob: Depth: The counter hob should be 1020mm to 1200mm in height from floor level to suit both customer/patron and worker. This may vary according to the functional requirements of the space. The recommendation is 750mm to 800mm however the following must be considered; The maximum distance to where reaching must occur should not exceed 500mm to 600mm; Adequate space to accommodate all screen- based equipment, required desk top items and for displaying and/or signing documents, placement of delivery items, etc; Design Standards page 16 of 43

17 Comfortable reach distances across the counter for the user and customer; Adequate depth to meet security requirements Desk top thickness: 33mm maximum, 25mm recommended. Volume of leg space under desk: Width: 800mm minimum; Knee space depth: 500 mm minimum; Leg space depth: measured 320mm above the floor 600mm minimum. Counter strength: AS/NZS requires desks to be designed to withstand up to 90 kg loads; Certification to Independent Agency Standards such as AFRDI (Australian Furniture, Research and Design Institute) should be requested from the manufacturer. Enquiry counters or service desks where there is a regular requirement for the worker and patron/student to simultaneously view a monitor screen; In the event a staff member and patron facing each other across a counter need to share a monitor screen, a standard rectangular counter is unsuitable as it will necessitate the adoption of awkward body postures. Dual ( back to back) screens are the most appropriate solution however should this not be possible a counter top design incorporating a curved section or curved sections (if multiple users) may need to be considered: Monitor The desk top should incorporate an arc (concave, curved section) at each computer workstation; Arc /curve dimensions: Width between 700mm and 900mm; Depth at midpoint 250mm to 300mm; Central angle of arc 120 degrees; Points where arcs meet straight lines of desk should be tapered, softened rather than a sharp corner; There should be a minimum of 700mmm distance (straight edge) between each curve. If there is requirement for a monitor at the counter workstation an LCD flat screen is preferred due to its low profile depth. When selecting monitors, height adjustment must be considered to suit a range of users. Select monitors with an inbuilt height adjustment range or purchase a separate monitor stand. If there is a requirement for both worker and customer/patron to view the screen simultaneously. Consideration should be given to the provision of two back to back screens to avoid the requirement for awkward postures. Viewing distance to monitor screen: If screen is to be fixed it should be positioned approximately arms reach from user for optimal visual comfort: minimum from front edge of desk: 350mm; Design Standards page 17 of 43

18 maximum from front edge of desk: 750mm; Maximum height of monitor screen - 10mm to 40mm below eye level. Monitor screen adjustability: Provision for adjustability should preferably be an integral part of the monitor however adjustability can be alternatively achieved via an arm mount or elevated platform. Adjustability should be achievable by hand without the use of tools whilst seated and the monitor must be stable throughout the range of adjustment; Vertical height range of adjustment: 150mm, monitor screen tilt and rotation should be possible; Recessing a monitor into the desk surface and covering with glass is not recommended as visualising a horizontally placed screen involves excessive neck flexion (looking down). An additional hazard is created by overhead light reflections on the screen. Cable Management Cabling to monitor and telephone should be long enough to enable optimal layout, loomed neatly to avoid entanglement and be clear of the floor. Cables should be accessible to computer technicians. Wiring and cabling shall comply with relevant standards. Seating Refer to Section 2.6. Footstool A separate footstool must be supplied with each adjustable height stool. The required dimensions are as follows: 480mm (W) x 350mm (D);; Min Height - 240mm; Max Height - 320mm. Mobile Pedestals Certified to AS ; GECA preferable. Features: Constructed of sturdy materials and stable. Must not tip when fully loaded; When located under an adjustable height workstation, must be of a sufficient height so as not to impede full range of vertical adjustment; Drawer handles which accommodate the user s four fingers (115mm wide and between 30 and 50mm deep), D-ring style preferred; Be located so they can be opened closed and locked from the normal operating position. Storage Storage of frequently accessed documents/pamphlets should be located within the optimal reach zone (i.e. on top of the desk, close to the user or in the top drawer under the desk). Design Standards page 18 of 43

19 Storage shelves must be robust, stable and well secured. Bookcases should generally be no higher than 2100mm however if higher must be fixed to the wall Shelving should be designed so heavier and more frequently used items can be located within the optimal reach zone i.e. shoulder to mid thigh range. Only light items (easily lifted with one hand) should be stored above shoulder. No frequently used or heavy items should be stored outside the chest to mid thigh range. Higher shelving must accommodate a safe means of climbing to the required level of storage, i.e. sufficient space to use and store an approved step ladder. Filing cabinets, lockers and shelves should not be located where they encroach into walkways. Filing cabinets require approximately 1200mm of space in front of them to enable the bottom drawer to be fully opened and accessed. Filing cabinets must be on a level floor to ensure that the drawers open and close easily. They should be secured to the wall or floor to ensure that they do not tip when the top drawer is open. References AS , The use of ventilation and air conditioning in buildings Ventilation Design AS2107, Acoustics; Recommended Design Sound Levels and Reverberation Times for Building Interiors AS2822, Acoustics: Methods of assessing and predicting speech privacy and speech intelligibility Occupational Health and Safety (Noise Regulations), 2004 Guide for Assessing and Fixing Noise Problems at Work, 2005 AS/NZS 1680: , Interior and workplace lighting. Part 1: General Principles and recommendations AS/NZS 1680: , Interior and workplace lighting. Part 2.1: Specific Applications- Circulation spaces and other areas AS/NZS 1680: , Interior and workplace lighting. Part 2.2: Specific Applications- Office and screen based tasks AS , Design for access and mobility. Part 1 General Requirements for access New building work AS , Design for access and mobility. Part 2 E Enhanced and additional requirements Buildings and facilities AS/NZS : 1994, Slip resistance of pedestrian surfaces. Guide to the reduction of slip hazards AS/NZS 4663:2004, Slip resistance measurement of existing of pedestrian materials AS/NZS 4586:2004, Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surfaces AS/NZS 1603 Series, Fire detection and Alarm systems AS/NZS :2005, Emergency Escape lighting and exit signs for buildings. System design installation and operation AS/NZS 1657:1992, Fixed platforms walkways, stairways and ladders. Design, construction and installation. AS/NZS 4443: 1997, Office panel systems workstations AS/NZS 4442:1997, Office desks Design Standards page 19 of 43

20 AS/NZS 4438:1997, Height adjustable swivel chairs AS :1990, Screen-based workstations. Part 1: Visual display units AS : 1990, Screen-based workstations. Part 3: Input Devices Worksafe Australia Publication, Ergonomic Principles and Checklists for the selection of Office Furniture and Equipment, 1991 Worksafe Victoria Publication, Officewise A guide for health and safety in the office, Laboratories - Computer Space and General Physical Layout In all situations the functional needs of the user group i.e. personal space, technology needs, requirement for other equipment and materials, customers, visitors etc. must be considered. Layout/ design should include the following: All facilities and amenities must be in accordance with The Building Code of Australia and provide access and usability for disabled users; Rows of computer workstations should be installed with a clear space of mm between them; A clear view of the lecturer, screens, boards, presentation materials and equipment should be possible from each workstation without the student having to adopt awkward or twisted postures; There should be no sharp edges or corners on any desks or furniture; Floor surfaces must be stable, firm, slip resistant, dark in colour and not glossy (less than 20% reflectance). Wool mix carpets are preferable as they reduce the build up of static electricity which can be felt as a mild electric shock; Walls should have 50-75% reflectance and a semi gloss finish; Ceilings should have high reflectance (reflecting approximately 80% of light); Lighting must be adequate for the tasks being undertaken. The appropriate number of lights must be installed at the appropriate distances to ensure evenness, comfortable visibility and no shadows at task viewing level. A combination of writing and reading and computer based tasks require a level of Lux. This is generally considered to suit most users; Lighting installation should be undertaken with consideration to optimum workstation orientation and existing window location. Workstations should be positioned so that fluorescent ceiling light tubes are parallel to the worker's line of sight when engaged at the workstation and not in front of or directly overhead. This is particularly important if departing from the more traditional fluorescent styles (which most closely resemble natural light and are therefore easiest on the eye); Highly reflective casings of fluorescent lights must not be positioned in the user s line of sight as they can represent a source of disability/discomfort glare; Monitors should not be positioned directly in front of or behind windows and incoming natural light sources affecting visual comfort should be controlled with blinds, louvers or other suitable window coverings; Design Standards page 20 of 43

21 Noise exposure should not exceed 65 db (A) If hard surfaces which reflect noise e.g. -timber and glass are used extensively, consideration may need to be given to installation of sound absorbing structures or materials; Temperature and air quality levels must be well controlled and/or regulated and must be compliant with the relevant standards. 22 degrees C is the recommended ambient office temperature. Perception of thermal comfort will vary enormously between individuals. Avoid locating workstations directly in front of, or below air conditioning outlets; If the intention is to utilise laptop computers provision should be made for docking stations; Provision should be made for securing the equipment. Computer Laboratory Workbench Design and Finish The preferred design is a fixed height long bench style workstation. The surface should be smooth, light in colour and a non-reflective, matt or satin finish. A modesty panel should be fitted to the front of the workstation finishing no higher than 400mm from the floor. There should be no adjustable components in the workstation. Computer Laboratory Workbench Dimensions Height of desk designed for sitting: 700mm to 720mm above floor level. Area of desk surface: Width: 1000mm minimum per workstation; Depth: mm for a flat LCD monitor; Desk top thickness: 33mm maximum. 25mm recommended. Volume of leg space under desk: Width: 800mm minimum; Knee space depth: 500 mm minimum; Leg space depth measured 120mm above the floor: 600mm minimum; N Height (under desk): 645mm minimum. Desk strength: AS/NZS requires desks to be designed to withstand up to 90 kg loads. Certification to Independent Agency Standards such as AFRDI (Australian Furniture, Research and Design Institute) should be requested from the manufacturer. Monitor When selecting monitors, height adjustment must be considered to suit a range of users. Select monitors with an inbuilt height adjustment range or purchase a separate monitor stand. Viewing distance to Monitor screen: Approximately arms reach from user for optimal visual comfort: 350mm minimum from front edge of desk. Maximum distance from front edge of desk: 750mm Height of monitor screen: 30mm to 40mm below eye level, approximately 400mm to the middle of the screen. Design Standards page 21 of 43