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(1) This document contains detailed procedures related to specific aspects of the University's Environmental Management System (EMS), including: (2) These procedures apply to the conduct of environmental management activities on all University campuses and must be read in conjunction with the University's Environmental Sustainability Policy, Environmental Management Plan and relevant statutes. (3) For the purposes of these procedures: (4) Refer to the University's: (5) The purpose of this procedure is to define the University's processes for the management, handling, treatment and disposal of waste substances and materials generated on site. The procedure identifies the waste streams likely to be generated across University campus sites and the methods of control required to ensure that legislative requirements are not breached. (6) This procedure provides the generic process that should be used across all University campuses. Campus specific waste streams not covered in this Procedure should be notified to the Environmental Supervisor for document amendment. (7) This procedure applies to all campuses and sites where waste is generated. This procedure addresses the management of liquid, solid and hazardous wastes. (8) This procedures has been developed with reference to the following Statutes and Regulations (and associated amendments) and University Policies, Procedures and Guidelines: (9) The objective of waste management is to minimise the impact of wastes on the environment, University staff, students, contractors and the public. (10) The University has adopted the following hierarchy of waste management options and requires all staff and students to subscribe to it: (11) The following procedures relate to each of the key waste streams generated by the University: (12) This procedure applies to all University staff, students and contractors and covers all general waste streams (including office and kitchen waste that is solid and inert in nature) generated at all University sites and includes office, kitchen and teaching areas. (13) Dedicated red labelled general waste bins are provided in external areas across all campuses, kitchens, common rooms and eateries. All items not suitable for recycling should be placed in these receptacles, including: (14) Office staff will be provided with a 'mini' desk bin for general waste. It is the responsibility of staff to empty these bins each day into the larger general waste collection bins provided in kitchens and common rooms. (15) Contract cleaning staff empty general waste collection bins and either transfer the waste to a compactus unit or waste skip bin. (16) This procedure applies to all University staff and students. (17) Dedicated paper recycling bins are provided at all desks and in photocopier rooms. All paper suitable for recycling is to be placed in these paper recycling bins. This includes: (18) The following waste is not to be placed in paper recycling bins: (19) Confidential or sensitive material is to be shredded, or alternatively placed in a security bin, and then recycled. (20) Contract cleaning staff empty desk, office and photocopier room paper recycling bins into dedicated blue recycling bins located within and outside of buildings. (21) Cardboard recycling bins are provided at centrally located areas at each University site. (22) Cardboard boxes are to be flattened and left next to recycling collection bins for removal by contract cleaning staff. (23) Polystyrene and plastic wrapping is to be removed from cardboard boxes prior to flattening. These should be bagged and left next to general waste collection bins. (24) This procedure applies to all University staff, students and contractors and covers co-mingled recycling generated at all University sites and includes desk, kitchen and eateries (25) Dedicated yellow labelled recycling bins are provided in external areas across all campuses, kitchens, common rooms and all eateries. All suitable items should be separated from general waste and placed in these receptacles, including: (26) Contract cleaning staff will ensure all recycling is kept separated from general waste. (27) Collected recycling will either be placed in a dedicated recycling skip bin or in a compactus for sorting at a MRF processing plant. (28) Recycling of imaging consumables is done via "Close the Loop" Cartridge Collection Program. (29) Close the Loop Limited is a leading global recycler of inkjet cartridges, laser toner cartridges, drum units, copier bottles and more. All cartridges in this program are recycled with zero waste to landfill. (30) Close the Loop Collection Starter Kits contain 1 x box with lid, 16 x black plastic bin liners, 8 zip ties and an information pack. Boxes should be situated near printing equipment and facilities and lined with 2 plastic bin liners. (31) Only imaging consumables from any laser printer, inkjet printer, fax machines and photocopiers are to be placed in "Close the Loop" boxes. When the bag is full remove the liners (2 x black bags) and tie off with provided zip tie. Insert new liners for subsequent collection and disposal. Take the bag to a nominated courier collection point. (32) "Close the Loop" pickup can be arranged by phoning 03 9 465 4855 or via the internet. Further box liners can be obtained by ordering a Consumables Pack from Close the Loop. (33) This procedure applies to all University staff issued with a University mobile work phone. (34) All mobile handsets, including batteries and accessories, are recyclable through the Mobile Phone Industry Recycling Program. (35) Any broken/damaged or old University phones that are not repairable should be returned to the IT Accounts Unit. Make sure that the sim card has been removed and the phone is marked dead or working (if partially working). (36) All mobile phones, batteries and accessories collected through Mobile Muster are recycled for material recovery to minimise the impact of mobile phones on the environment (there is no profit made from this and they are not refurbished). (37) Mobile Muster collection points are located in the general computer labs at all campuses (38) For all University staff requiring further information please refer to the University's Mobile Telecommunication Devices Policy and other related documentation available via the Information Technology and Digital Services web site. (39) This procedure applies to the disposal of University owned electronic assets only (i.e. non leased items). (40) IT Procurement should be notified of all University obsolete electronic goods (procedures for notification are available via the Information Technology and Digital Services web site). (41) IT Procurement will organise, as appropriate, the collection of E-waste by an appropriate external E-waste disposal contractor. (42) This procedure covers the reuse/recycling of furniture considered to be surplus to the University's need. (43) The Office of Estate and Commercial (OEC) will be responsible for determining the type, location and disposal of used furniture across the University. (44) Furniture of reasonable quality that cannot be utilised on any University campus will be donated to either a charitable organisation or a tertiary institution in a developing nation. (45) Furniture that is unable to be donated will be sent to an appropriate external recycling facility. (46) This procedure covers all green waste produced at University campuses. Green waste refers to urban landscape waste generally consisting of leaves, grass clippings, weeds, yard trimmings, wood waste, branches and stumps and other miscellaneous organic materials. (47) Green wastes at the University originate from the activities associated with grounds maintenance and landscaping, sports facilities maintenance and horticulture. This procedure applies to all University grounds and landscape contractors and farm staff and contractors. (48) All mowers clippings will be left on lawns as mulched grass. (49) Green waste resulting from tree lopping, pruning and removal to be placed in a dedicated green waste bin for collection by a recycling contractor. Green waste will be taken to a green waste processing centre. (50) Green waste produced on the Hawkesbury campus will be mulched and used on the farmland. (51) This procedure covers the collection and removal of waste collected in grease traps across University campuses. Grease trap waste refers to grease and solids intercepted before they enter the sewerage system, e.g. cooking oils. (52) Waste from grease traps will be collected by a suitably accredited contractor. (53) The contractor will convey the waste to an approved treatment plant where the waste is processed and reused as compost and feedstock. (54) This procedure applies to all hazardous wastes. Hazardous wastes are both solid and liquid wastes that have either the short or long term potential to harm human health and/or the environment. This procedure is in addition to promulgated Work Health, Safety and Wellbeing's Hazardous Waste Policies and Procedures. (55) Waste streams that are identified as hazardous include: (56) From an environmental perspective, these types of waste will contaminate soil and waterways if sent to landfill and are governed by both WHS and environmental legislation and best practice guidelines. (57) The NSW Environment and Protection Agency (EPA) has issued Environmental Guidelines in order to promote compliance with the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2005, made under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. (58) According to these guidelines and legislation liquid waste should be classified according to the following types and labelled and stored appropriately. Please refer to the Work Health and Safety Laboratory Safety Guidelines and Hazardous Substances and Dangerous Goods Procedures. (59) Wastes (liquid) that are classified as hazardous include: (60) This procedure applies to all the Office of Estate and Commercial Project Managers and Building Contractors and covers all building rubble resulting from demolition, building and refurbishment on all University campuses. Building rubble or building and demolition waste refers to all material (such as bricks, concrete, paper, plastics, polystyrene, glass, metal and timber) resulting from the demolition, erection, construction, refurbishment or alteration of buildings and/or infrastructure-type development. (61) This operating procedure does not apply to asbestos waste. (62) Building Contractors, under the direction of the Office of Estate and Commercial, must recycle and divert from landfill surplus rock, soil and other excavation or demolition materials wherever this is practical. (63) Brick, concrete, timber, metals, plasterboard, paper and packaging, glass, plastics and soil waste from building and demolition works are to be sorted on site by the Building Contractor and sent to dedicated recycling facilities where practical. (64) All Contractors must ensure all waste removed from University sites is conveyed to and disposed in a place lawfully designated as a waste facility. There are harsh penalties enforced for illegal dumping under the Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment (Illegal Waste Disposal) Act 2013. (65) This procedure is to be read in conjunction with the University Work Health and Safety Policies and Procedures and Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the codes of practice relating to that Act. (66) This procedure applies to all Office of Estate and Commercial Project Managers and Building Contractors. (67) This procedure covers all asbestos and asbestos related materials, all SMF material and all PCB material waste. (68) Asbestos waste means any waste that contains asbestos - the common name for a variety of silicate minerals within either the amphibole or the serpentine groups that are fibrous in structure and more or less resistant to acid and fire. Asbestos is classed both as a hazardous substance and a class 9 miscellaneous dangerous good - inhaling the fibres may cause asbestosis or lung cancer. (69) SMF waste means any waste that contains SMFs - a general term used to describe man-made amorphous (non-crystalline) silicate fibres which are manufactured from minerals such as glass, rock, alumina and silica. SMFs are classified as a hazardous substance and a non-dangerous good. Short-term exposure to SMFs may result in skin, eye and upper respiratory tract irritation and long-term exposure is possibly carcinogenic. (70) PCB waste means any waste that contains PCBs - a group of toxic organo-chlorine compounds. While they vary in form, PCBs usually occur as non-flammable oils in electrical equipment such as transformers and capacitors. PCBs are classified as a hazardous chemical and a class 9 miscellaneous dangerous good. Exposure to leaking PCBs can result in a range of health problems from nausea and eye irritations to bronchitis, liver complications and chloracne. From an environmental perspective, PCBs are non-degradable and can therefore bio-accumulate in the food chain. (71) Details of existing asbestos, SMF and PCB material locations in University buildings are kept in the Office of Estate and Commercial HAZMAT Register. (72) Generally the majority of asbestos, SMF and PCB containing materials on University campuses have been assessed by an independent consultant to be in a stable condition with no remedial action required and does not present a significant health risk. (73) Prior to undertaking any major or minor Capital Works, the Project Manager responsible for the project must check the Office of Estate and Commercial HAZMAT Register for the presence of asbestos, SMF and PCB containing materials. If any of these materials are present and require removal, the Project Manager is responsible for factoring into the administration of the tender process the procurement of an appropriately licensed contractor to safely remove and dispose of the material. (74) The Project Manager is to manage the awarded contract and to ensure that the contractor is fulfilling the terms of the contract by conducting spot audits. (75) The Project Manager is responsible for collating and filing in all the necessary documentation including proof of correct disposal of asbestos, SMFs and PCB containing materials and is to notify the relevant Associate Director, Campus and Maintenance Delivery once the job is completed of what substances have been removed in order to update the HAZMAT register. (76) The Office of Estate and Commercial is to maintain and update as required the HAZMAT register. (77) All contractors must be licensed hazardous material removalists (if appropriate)* and must comply with all state and national environmental and work health and safety legislation and codes of practice. (78) In situations where these materials need to be removed from University buildings no disturbance of these substances is to occur and discovery is to be reported immediately to the relevant Project Manager and Associate Director, Campus and Maintenance Delivery in Office of Estate and Commercial. (79) The collection, handling and disposal of asbestos and asbestos waste by the contractor must strictly adhere to the requirements as stipulated in NSW Environmental Protection Authority's Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014. The contractor must forward the appropriate documentation from a licensed landfill site to the Project Manager. (80) The collection, handling and disposal of SMF's by the contractor must strictly adhere to the requirements as stipulated in The National Standard for Synthetic Mineral Fibres [NOHSC:1004 (1990)] and National Code of Practice for the safe use of Synthetic Mineral Fibres [NOHSC:2006 (1990)]. (81) In NSW, SMF waste is accepted at nominated landfills and usually must be booked a day in advance. The building contractor who is responsible for the correct collection and disposal of SMF containing material must forward the appropriate documentation from a licensed landfill site to the Project Manager. (82) Scheduled PCB material and waste must be transported in accordance with the Australian Dangerous Goods Code and any other legislative requirements. The contractor who is responsible for the correct collection and disposal of PCBs must forward the appropriate documentation from a licensed landfill site to the Project Manager. (83) All workers involved in the transport of PCB wastes should be fully informed of the hazards of PCBs and trained in the correct procedures required for the safe transport of these hazardous materials. PCB waste is classified according to the level of concentration present in the PCB containing material. (84) Waste management information is available on the Office of Sustainability web page for staff and students. Waste management responsibilities for contractors are covered in the compulsory University Online Induction course. (85) Contract cleaning staff transport blue paper recycling and red security bins to designated kerbside collection points and move them back to their original location. These bins are collected weekly (for collection schedule refer to the Office of Estate and Commercial web page). (86) Cardboard collection occurs from each campus twice a week (for collection schedule refer to the Office of Estate and Commercial web page). (87) While pesticides (including herbicides and fungicides) can have economic, social, public health and environmental benefits there are significant risks associated with pesticide use. Many pesticides, due to their levels of toxicity, flammability or combustibility are classified as dangerous goods and/or hazardous chemicals. (88) The purpose of this procedure is to define the University's processes for the management of pesticides employed as a consequence of building maintenance, farming, horticultural and grounds maintenance activities conducted by the university. This procedure identifies the standard operating procedures for the safe handling, management, use and disposal of pesticides to ensure that legislative requirements are not breached. (89) This procedure has been developed with reference to the following Statutes and Regulations (and associated amendments) and University Policies, Procedures and Guidelines: (90) The principles embodied in this document are generic and are to be applied to the management of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides by University staff and external contractors at all University sites. This procedure addresses the management of all types of liquid and solid pesticides and herbicides. (91) While this procedure is primarily concerned with minimising the negative environmental impacts that the use of pesticides entails, it has also been written to ensure consistency with Work Health and Safety Regulations where relevant. (92) The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) currently require that all pesticides sold in Australia be approved and registered. (93) In NSW, the Pesticides Act 1999 permits only the use of approved registered pesticides (unless specific authorisation is granted for the use of an unregistered pesticide). The Act also requires all users to adhere to the approved label or permit directions. The Pesticides Act also sets out current record keeping and training requirements. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is the state agency that currently enforces the proper use of pesticides in NSW. (94) This Act controls and regulates the use of pesticides in New South Wales. The focus of this legislation is to protect human health, the environment, property and trade while safeguarding responsible pesticide use. (95) It is an offence under the Act: to: (96) The Pesticides Regulation 2009 requires users of pesticides for commercial and occupational purposes, or in connection with agricultural, farming or forestry operations to complete competency based training in pesticide use, transport, handling and storage and to make and keep records of pesticide use. (97) Prior to undertaking pesticide spraying University staff and contractors should take a precautionary approach in recognition of the limited knowledge of environmental consequences resulting from the widespread use, transport, persistence and degradation impacts of pesticide application. (98) Persons engaged in pesticide transport, handling, storage, preparation and application on University property are required to: (99) From an environmental perspective inappropriate use of pesticides, particularly those classified as dangerous, hazardous or poisonous, can lead to environmental harm. Different levels of harm (ranging from nuisance to serious) can arise from the incorrect use of pesticides. University staff and contractors engaged in pesticide use are to ensure that pesticides do not: (100) A register is a listing of all hazardous substances in the workplace. This includes a list of the chemicals kept in a central store or a pest control vehicle. WorkCover NSW recommends that the minimum information which must be included in a register is a list of all hazardous chemicals used or produced in the workplace, and the relevant SDS. (101) The University utilises Chemwatch for listing all hazardous chemicals stored and used on its campuses. Contractors maintain their own register with copies made available to the University. (102) The Pesticides Regulation 2009 requires that the use of pesticides must be correctly recorded with the following information: (103) The record must be made within 24 hours of use and kept for three years. Environment Protection Authority officers may check these records at any reasonable time and penalties may apply if the records have not been kept in accordance with the new law. (104) The Pesticides Regulation 2009 makes training compulsory for commercial users of pesticides. A person who is 'trained' has a qualification that shows that they have achieved a specific level of competency in pesticide use. Holders of Farmcare, ChemCert or SMARTtrain qualifications are considered already qualified under the Act. The qualification remains valid for five years from the date it was completed. People who are qualified have to be re-assessed every five years. (105) An SDS provides information on the properties of hazardous chemicals, how they affect health and safety in the workplace and on how to manage the hazardous chemicals in the workplace (reference Safe Work Australia). (106) An SDS for a chemical provides information on: (107) Use the SDS for guidance on the safe use and storage of chemicals. Other persons working in the area where the chemical is being used may also need to see the SDS. (108) All SDS will be located in an easily accessible location for easy reference. Alternatively SDS are accessible through ChemWatch via the library website. (109) To effectively manage the University's activities, potential generic emergency situations that have a negative environmental impact have been identified and appropriate responses documented. This procedure addresses reasonably foreseeable environmental emergency situations that could arise through these activities. However, it must be borne in mind that potential emergencies and responses are specifically related to site conditions and therefore generic response procedures need to be adapted to each project. (110) Responsibility for identification of potential emergencies, adaptation of generic response procedures and implementation of response procedures is at a number of levels. (111) The procedures in this document have been developed with reference to the following Statutes and Regulations (and associated amendments) and University Policies, Procedures and Guidelines: (112) This procedure has been developed for use across all University campuses. (113) This procedure will review and identify all foreseeable emergency situations for environmental releases and detail generic emergency responses to these situations. Emergency preparedness and responses will outline: (114) The Work Health, Safety and Wellbeing has a comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Program that outlines a framework to enable line managers, in consultation with other stakeholders, to establish effective emergency management plans that are appropriate for their respective areas of responsibility. These procedures have been developed with this framework in mind. In addition, this website has a number of generic emergency management instructions that the reader is referred to. (115) The Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 is the key piece of environment protection legislation administered by the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Under this legislation an organisation has a duty of care to notify the EPA where "a pollution incident occurs in the course of an activity so that material harm to the environment is caused or threatened." The Ozone Protection Act 1989 (NSW) and Ozone Protection Regulation 1997 was implemented to enable the state to meet its obligations under the Montreal Protocol to phase out production and consumption of ozone depleting substances including CFCs. It is a Tier 1 offence under section 117 of the NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 to wilfully or negligently cause certain ozone-depleting substances to be emitted into the atmosphere contrary to the Regulation in a manner that harms or is likely to harm the environment. (116) This following section is as per Campus Safety and Security web page. (117) Emergency telephone numbers are: (118) 'The University has installed Emergency Contact Points' across all campuses to provide a 24-hour direct link to a Campus Security Officer in the event of an emergency. The contact point is activated by pressing the button located on the panel and speaking into the inbuilt microphone. (119) '2300' will be connected directly to Campus Safety and Security staff on the campus on which the caller is located. (120) When using an internal telephone to phone the emergency services ('000') the caller must first dial '0' in order to obtain an outside line. (121) There will be a slight delay when dialling the '000' emergency number before the phone begins ringing. (122) The University's emergency vehicles contain equipment which can be used in an emergency. Campus Safety and Security staff are responsible for ensuring that the equipment is carried in the vehicle at all times and is maintained in a serviceable condition. (123) Key University Emergency Procedures addressing fire, evacuation, bomb threats, chemical and gas spills, medical emergencies and loss of essential services have been documented by Campus Safety and Security. (124) The University's Emergency Management Program contains key duties and responsibilities for staff undertaking first response type roles in relation to emergencies on and around any University campus. (125) This procedure applies to all University assets including buildings, external areas, bushland and farm land. (126) In case of emergencies which typically may include fire, explosion, leakage of noxious gases/liquids etc: CALL '000', then: (127) There are a number of areas that have the potential to make a negative environmental impact in terms of spills and leaks: (128) See WHS Emergency Procedures. (129) While accidental spills and leaks can occur the University recognises that their impacts need be minimised and that the appropriate procedures are in place to protect both human health and the environment. (130) The purpose of this procedure is to define the University's processes for the emergency management of hazardous spills and leaks as a consequence of general business activities conducted across all spheres of the university. This procedure applies to all University staff, students, contractors and lessees and has been developed for use across all University campuses. (131) The procedure identifies the standard operating procedures for the safe containment and disposal of hazardous spills and leaks to ensure that the University's environmental responsibility and legislative requirements are met. (132) The procedures in this document have been developed with reference to the following: (133) This procedure addresses the emergency management spill response to the major and most likely types of hazardous pollutants on University grounds such as: petroleum; diesel; oil lubricants and products; chlorine; polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), chemical spills in laboratories; Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) leaks and gas leaks. (134) This procedure applies to both liquid and gaseous substances. (135) While this procedure is primarily concerned with minimising the negative environmental impacts that an accidental spill or leak may entail, it has also been written to ensure consistency with Work Health and Safety Regulation where relevant. (136) There are three major ways that a hazardous spill or leak can impact on the environment: (137) The Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 is the key piece of environment protection legislation administered by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage's Environmental Protection Agency. (138) The Act has a three tier penalty regime for Environmental Offences: (139) Under this legislation an organisation has a duty of care to notify the EPA where "a pollution incident occurs in the course of an activity so that material harm to the environment is caused or threatened." This regime obviously makes it in any organisation's interests to be vigilant in all areas of environmental management. (140) In the event of a major spill on any University Campus Safety and Security must be immediately notified on 0414 240 458. A Security representative will attend the scene of the spill as soon as possible. (141) Depending on the circumstances and nature of the spill the NSW Fire and Rescue should also be called (000) by either those responsible for the spill if there is an immediate fire or pollution risk or will be called by Security upon arriving and assessing the situation. When it is safe to do so, the generic procedure to follow is as follows. (142) In the case of major hazardous spills, protective action zones will need to be established. If the spill occurs in an outside environment note the wind direction and then establish the protective action zone. Specific distances will depend on the material spilled and are detailed in each specific operating procedure. (143) Steps to take to create a protective action zone are as follows: (144) Specific Emergency Spill Response Operating Procedures are outlined below for the following: (145) Please note, unless otherwise specified all responses are as per SDS instructions for each material as found on Chemwatch. (146) This operating procedure applies to both leaded and unleaded petroleum products (also commonly referred to as motor fuel and/or gasoline) across all University campuses. Both leaded and unleaded petrol are classified as a hazardous chemical and a Class 3 dangerous good according to the criteria of the Australian Dangerous Good code. Unleaded petrol is a lead free motor fuel used for internal combustion engines, 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines. It has a flashpoint of less than or equal to 30 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of greater than 30 degrees Celsius. It is anticipated that the majority of petrol related incidents will relate to spills and leaks from vehicles. (147) Petrol leaking from vehicles can occur particularly during hot weather when heat expands the petrol in fuel tanks. Leaking petrol is a serious risk and care should be taken with petrol spills to prevent the danger of ignition or explosion (OFM, Griffith University). (148) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a petrol leak: (149) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458. (150) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a minor petrol spill: (151) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458 as the spill may be violently or explosively reactive. (152) Establish an isolation distance of 25 metres and downwind protection distance of 300 metres as indicated in the Protective Action Zone Diagram. (153) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a major petrol spill: (154) This operating procedure applies to metal capacitors containing polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) material that are at Hawkesbury Campus, Parramatta North Campus, Parramatta South Campus, Kingswood Campus and Westmead Campus. All of the capacitors containing PCBs have been assessed by a professional and independent survey as "in a good and stable condition at the time of inspection with no action currently required." (155) PCBs are classified as a hazardous chemical and a class 9 miscellaneous dangerous good. Exposure to leaking PCBs can result in a range of health problems from nausea and eye irritations to bronchitis, liver complications and chloracne. (156) From an environmental perspective, PCBs are recognised internationally to be a major environmental pollutant. They are non-degradable and their persistence can cause ecological damage via water pollution and bio-accumulation in the food chain. The loss of these materials to the environment must be avoided at all costs. Given the limited amount of PCBs on University campuses there is not enough PCB material to constitute a "major" spill. As such this procedure relates only to PCB leaks and minor spills. (157) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458. (158) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a PCB leak or minor spill: (159) This operating procedure applies to the chlorine chemical stores and chlorinated water in University swimming pools at Hawkesbury and Blacktown campuses. Both Hawkesbury and Blacktown campuses have stores of sodium hypochlorite - liquid pool chlorine. Sodium Hypochlorite is used for the purification of water and as a swimming pool disinfectant. It is classified as a hazardous chemical and a Class 8 (corrosive) dangerous good. As an alkaline and a corrosive, sodium hypochlorite will damage living tissue, goods or equipment on contact by chemical action. It is not highly flammable but is considered to be an "ecotoxin" i.e. a toxicant that can adversely affect ecosystems. (160) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458. (161) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a minor chlorine spill, N.B. clean up should only be undertaken by trained personnel: (162) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458. (163) Establish an isolation distance of 25 metres and downwind protection distance of 250 metres as indicated in the Protective Action Zone Diagram. (164) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a major chlorine spill: (165) This operating procedure applies to all diesel spills and leaks across all University campuses. Diesel is synonymous with a number of terms including: "automotive diesel fuel oil"; "distillate dieseline"; "diesel oil"; "diesel fuel"; "diesel oil, light" and "summer diesel". Diesel is a distillate fuel suitable for use as a fuel for trucks, ships and other automotive equipment. It is classified as a hazardous chemicals and a non-dangerous good. Diesel is stored in bulk in a number of areas at the University for use in farming equipment. Diesel is also transported onto campuses by semi-trailers. (166) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458. (167) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a minor diesel spill: (168) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458. (169) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a major diesel spill: (170) This operating procedure applies to all oil spills and leaks across all University campuses. "Oil" is used as a generic term and refers to all hydraulic oil, engine oil and brake fluid. All these oils are classified as a non-hazardous substance and a non-dangerous good according to the criteria of National Occupational Health and Safety Code and the Australian Dangerous Goods Code. (171) Contact Campus Safety and Security on 0414 240 458. (172) These are the protective actions that need to be taken in the event of a minor oil spill: (173) This operating procedure applies to all spills and leaks across all University laboratories. (174) In laboratories the definition of minor and major spills changes substantially. (175) Refer to the University Laboratory Safety Guidelines. (176) CFCs are artificial gas compounds that contain carbon, chlorine and fluorine. At room temperature CFCs are easily liquefied by compression - they are also stable and non-toxic. Prior to 1989 CFCs have been widely used as working fluids in refrigerators and air conditioners, propellants in spray cans for paints etc. and foaming agents. (177) CFCs are also one of the most ozone depleting substances available. Due to their stability they remain in the atmosphere for a significant amount of time after release - it is estimated that one chlorine atom can destroy over 100,000 molecules. (178) CFCs are still used at the University in the air conditioning systems. CFC leaks can be detected two ways. If an air conditioning system is not functioning the maintenance contractor is called and any leaks can be identified and rectified. The second is via the monthly routine maintenance checks conducted by the contractor. (179) The University has a number of different types of gases in store across its campuses. Gases which have been compressed, liquefied or dissolved under pressure are classified as a Class 2 dangerous good. Under this classification there are three categories of gases: (180) In the case of a gas spill and /or leak the procedure to follow is as per University Emergency Procedures. (181) As Sydney's most geographically dispersed university, the University has a number of varying urban, peri-urban and agricultural landscapes to manage. Inherent in all these landscapes are both native and non-native wildlife populations. (182) The purpose of this procedure is to document the University's methods on managing these populations to ensure compliance with conservation and animal welfare objectives while at the same time safeguarding the health and safety of all University students, employees and visitors. (183) This procedure has been developed for use across all University campuses. (184) The procedures in this document have been developed with reference to the following: (185) All native mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians and many species of native plants are protected in NSW by the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 and under this act it is an offence to harm any protected fauna. The only exemptions to this Act relate to dingoes and certain native birds in specified parts of New South Wales where they are deemed to be either agricultural or pastoral pests. (186) Under the NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 the Office of Environment and Heritage's Wildlife Licensing Section has the authority to issue a general licence (s120) and an occupiers licence (s121) to authorise the harm of a specified number and species of native wildlife. (187) When a native species is deemed to pose a danger to either the health or safety of the University's human community, contractors are required to have the appropriate s120 licence. If the University is to carry out the destruction of native wildlife an s121 licence is required. (188) Any destruction of native wildlife is to be carried out as humanely as possible and only by methods specified by the Office of Environment and Heritage (189) The objective of this document is to outline the management response for: (190) The University recognises that snakes and reptiles are an intrinsic part of the Australian landscape and have a role to play in many different types of ecosystems. (191) All native Australian snakes and reptiles are protected by law in NSW and it is an offence to harm or kill them. (192) The most commonly encountered snakes in Western Sydney are the red-bellied black snake and the eastern brown snake. Both are venomous and potentially dangerous to humans. It is best to treat all snakes as if they are venomous and if one is sighted to keep at a safe distance and do not disturb it. (193) In summer snakes are more active and have been found at all University campuses but are especially prevalent at Blacktown, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury and Penrith. Individuals working and/or walking in bushland areas are advised to wear sturdy boots and long pants and to avoid dense undergrowth where visibility is reduced. (194) Snakes are to be managed in accordance with the University's Animals on Campus Policy (Part E), which generally requires individuals to leave snakes alone and contact their local Campus Safety and Security Office for their action. (195) The provisions of that policy should also be applied to reptiles. Individuals should note that snakes/reptiles are often timid and will not become aggressive unless provoked. Statistics show that over 90% of people who are bitten by snakes are trying to kill or catch them. Accordingly, individuals should maintain a safe distance where a snake/reptile is sighted. (196) The University has a responsibility to allow safe egress of kangaroos across its campuses. (197) Eastern Grey Kangaroo populations have been recorded on both the Hawkesbury and Penrith campuses. (198) University staff and students should be aware that kangaroos are nomadic and will attempt to cross both internal and external roads to access other feeding sites. Caution should be used when driving around kangaroo populated campuses, particularly at dusk. (199) Injured kangaroos should be reported to Campus Safety and Security, stating the location of the animal. They will contact the local WIRES rescue line (1300 094 737). (200) Unviersity staff and students should not approach or interact with any kangaroo. Kangaroos can be aggressive and have been known to inflict injury on humans. More information about kangaroo behaviour can be found on the NSW Environment and Heritage web site (201) The University has a responsibility to ensure both the wellbeing of both its bird and human populations. (202) Across University campuses the following native bird species can exhibit seasonally aggressive behaviour which is usually associated with nesting: (203) This seasonal behaviour often occurs during spring and can be intimidating. While most birds only swoop and call loudly, a small proportion of birds may actually come into contact with people in an attempt to deter the perceived threat to their nests and young. (204) Where possible, the University will seek to educate its community about these situations, display temporary signage where appropriate and encourage University staff and students to avoid nesting locations during the season where possible via notification by email. (205) In exceptional circumstances and in line with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage Policy the University considers that a bird(s) can be assessed as a risk to public safety and dangerous when it: (206) If any University students and/or staff consider a bird to be dangerous please contact Campus Safety and Security for an assessment. Alternatively, the Environmental Manager can be contacted at the beginning of the nesting season (August) to discuss any other concerns. (207) The following species are found nesting around University campus buildings: (208) Nesting birds around buildings and eaves pose a number of problems for the human populations that cohabit with them, such as bird lice. (209) If any University student and/or staff consider a nesting bird to be a threat to their health please contact the Work Health, Safety and Wellbeing or the Office of Estate and Commercial for an assessment. (210) The University has resident brush tail possum populations at Hawkesbury, Penrith and Campbelltown campuses. Possums have adapted well to urbanisation and can take up residence in the roof of buildings. (211) In cases such as these contact the Office of Estate and Commercial. (212) The University does not recommend feeding possums but encourages them to fend for themselves. If a possum is causing a problem contact the Office of Estate and Commercial to arrange for appropriate management action. (213) The University has the following non-native wildlife populations on campus: (214) Under the University's Animals on Campus Policy, there is a general prohibition on bringing animals onto University campuses (unless exempt under Section 3 part B of the Animals on Campus Policy). (215) Animals not exempt, will be managed in accordance with Section 4 part E of the Animals on Campus Policy (216) Where non-native wildlife populations are considered to be pests the Office of Estate and Commercial should be contacted, with respect to contracting the services of a licensed pest controller to deal with specific problems (e.g. infestation). (217) The University has an obligation under the Land Services Act 2013 part 10 to eradicate or control feral pests such as rabbits and foxes. These works will be undertaken by an appropriately trained and licensed pest control agency. It should be noted that under the Act it is an offense to hinder these agencies in their work. (218) The University advocates the use of the most humane treatment available as recommended by the various governing agencies and scientific research. (219) The University has a large contractor workforce that provides each campus with a wide range of contracted services including: (220) The purpose of this procedure is to outline the University's contractor requirements in order to ensure environmental compliance across all University campuses. (221) The procedures in this document have been developed with reference to the Protection of the Environmental Operations Act, 1997. (222) Other relevant and supporting documentation University Contractor Health and Safety Procedure. (223) All contractors must be made aware of their environmental responsibilities and obligations via compulsory completion of the on-line University Contractor Induction Course, run through the Office of Estate and Commercial. (224) Contractors are required to follow the outlined environmental instructions as per the on-line University Contractor Induction Course. (225) Environmental Instructions cover: (226) For contractors that may only visit the campus once or very infrequently a Short Term Induction Pass is issued. In this case it is the responsibility of the University representative to outline the environmental instructions that the contractor is required to follow. (227) Furthermore the University requires contractors to have in place their own appropriate environmental, quality assurance and WHS program within their organisation. (228) A contractor is required to immediately report any accident, incident or occurrence which has or has the potential to cause environmental harm to University property or adjoining properties. (229) Notification is to be to their University contact and/or Campus Safety and Security. Incidents such as a chemical spill, leak or inappropriate disposal of waste should be contained pending clean-up or containment action. (230) The University Induction Card contains details of emergency contact numbers on the back. Likewise the Short term Induction Pass is issued with University Emergency Procedures on the back of the ticket.Environmental Management Procedures
NOTE: The Environmental Management Procedure is expired on publication of the revised Environmental Sustainability Policy approved and published on 4 November 2022.
Section 1 - Purpose and Context
Section 2 - Definitions
Top of Page
Section 3 - Policy Statement
Top of PageSection 4 - Procedures
Part A - Waste Management Procedures
Purpose and Context
Waste Management Hierarchy
Specific Waste Management Procedures
General Waste Procedure
Recycling Procedures
Office Paper and Cardboard Procedure
Co-mingled Recycling of Aluminium, Plastic and Glass
Imaging Consumables Recycling Procedure
Mobile Phone Recycling Procedure
Electronic Waste or E-waste
Furniture
Green Waste Recycling Procedure
Grease Trap Waste Procedure
Hazardous Waste Operating Procedure
Hazardous Liquid Waste
Maintenance Waste Operating Procedure
Asbestos, Synthetic Mineral Fibres (SMF) and Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) Material Waste Operating Procedure
Training
Paper and Cardboard Recycling Timetables
Part B - Pesticide Management Procedures
Purpose and Context
Legislative Responsibilities
Pesticide Application Requirements
Recordkeeping
Pesticide Registers
Pesticide Usage Records
Training
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Part C - Emergency Preparedness and Response Procedures
Purpose and Context
Legislative Responsibilities
Emergency Contact Numbers/Equipment
University Emergency Procedures
Fire and Explosions
Hazardous Spills and Leaks
Part D - Emergency Spill Response Procedures
Purpose and Context
Legislative Responsibilities
Part E - Generic Spill Response Procedures
Protective Action Zones
Part F - Specific Emergency Spill Response Operating Procedures
Petrol Leak and Spill Response Operating Procedure
Petrol Leaks
Minor Petrol Spills (less than 200 litres) - Call '000' and ask for Fire
Major Petrol Spills (greater than 200 litres) - Call Fire Brigade '000'
PCB Leak and Spill Response Operating Procedure
PCB Leaks and Minor Spills - Call '000' ask for Fire
Chlorine Leak and Spill Response Operating Procedure
Minor Chlorine Spills (less than 200 litres) Call '000' ask for Fire
Major Chlorine Spills (greater than 200 litres) - Call '000' ask for Fire
Diesel Leak and Spill Response Operating Procedure
Diesel Leaks and Minor Spills (less than 200 litres) - Call '000' ask for Fire
Major Diesel Spills (greater than 200 litres) - Call '000' ask for Fire
Oil Spill/Leak Response Operating Procedure
Oil Leaks and Minor Spills (less than 200 litres) - Call '000' ask for Fire
Laboratory Spill/Leak Response Operating Procedure
Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) Leak Response Operating Procedure
Gas Spill/Leak Response Operating Procedure
Part G - Wildlife Information and Procedures
Purpose and Context
Legislative Responsibilities
Snake and Reptile Information
Management Procedures
Kangaroo Information
Nesting and Seasonally Aggressive Native Birds Management Procedure
Possum Management Procedure
Non-Native Wildlife Pest Management Procedure
Part H - Contractor Procedures
Purpose and Context
Procedures
Procedure for Reporting Environmental Incidents