Page 5596 - Week 15 - Wednesday, 9 December 2009
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today includes some chemicals and potentially hazardous materials. With the ever-increasing introduction of new chemicals and the extent of potency of some of these chemicals comes a whole new set of potential hazards. The management of products used in schools, especially those that are categorised as chemicals, is obviously a very important issue for all schools, and the handling of hazardous substances and dangerous goods forms an important component of managing health and safety.
All products that find their way into a school environment should be assessed to determine risks associated with their use. If products fall into the category of a hazardous substance and/or dangerous goods there should be specific procedures in place. Hazardous substances can be defined simply as a substance that has the potential to harm the health and safety of persons in the workplace. When that workplace is a school, the impact and potential for harm are infinitely greater. As we progress through the 21st century, increased health concerns associated with reactions to certain types of chemicals, and even food, abound. This is a serious issue, Mr Barr, so I am not quite sure why you are smiling.
Mr Barr: Sorry. It is an entirely separate matter with—
MR DOSZPOT: I am sorry, Mr Barr; I apologise.
Mr Barr: I am not laughing at you, Mr Doszpot; rest assured.
MR DOSZPOT: Students and young people who suffer from asthma and other allergy-related health issues must be afforded the right to be in an environment free of chemical triggers and potentially harmful substances. Environmentally preferable purchasing is the way forward. But we also need to understand the costs that need to be taken into consideration and consider how to alleviate the impact on school budgets as well as on the cleaning contractors’ ability to comply. This must be looked at and emphasised.
Environmental purchasing includes the consideration of many additional factors and decisions on the purchase of products and/or services. It is sometimes referred to as “green”, “sustainable” or “environmentally preferable purchasing”. The aim of considering environmental factors is to buy products or services that have less impact on the environment and human health than otherwise comparable products and services.
I note the government’s concerns that this approach to purchasing must be a whole-of-government approach but I also support Ms Hunter’s concerns and this approach must begin at the earliest possible opportunity within the school environment. I also take note that the statement of requirements for school cleaning contracts has been under review and that we are probably at the tail end of that review. However, I do believe that the provision of a guide will be a good initiative and a step in the right direction to start the process of educating and informing on the potential dangers that need to be addressed.
I have noted also that in the manual for compliance and registration of non-government schools there are some sections that require schools to adhere to
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