Environmental hazards can cause harm to people through exposure to physical, chemical, or biological elements. They can result from:
- noise
- temperature extremes
- hazardous substances
- biological agents.
Environmental hazards can pose risks to workers' health and also to the surrounding environment.
Managing environmental hazards is part of managing hazards and risks in the workplace more broadly. Learn more about managing hazards and risks.
Under work health and safety law, PCBUs are legally required to manage hazards and risks. Workers also have a duty to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and follow the reasonable instructions of a PCBU.
These legal obligations are called work health and safety (WHS) duties.
Common environmental hazards in creative workplaces
| Type of hazard | Some common examples |
|---|---|
| Chemical |
• Hazardous substances like paints, solvents, or adhesives used in artworks, prop design or set construction • Exposure to silica dust during sculpture or pottery creation • Exposure to fumes from welding activities • Cleaning agents used to maintain venues Safe Work Australia has guidance on managing risks of hazardous chemicals. |
| Noise |
• High sound levels during rehearsals or live performances Safe Work Australia has guidance on managing noise and preventing hearing loss. |
| Extreme temperatures | • Working outdoors in heat or cold during festival setups |
| Radiation | • Use of lasers (e.g. Class 4 lasers in light shows) |
| Electrical |
• Risks from stage lighting, sound systems, or other electrical equipment Safe Work Australia has guidance on managing electrical risks. |
| Biological |
• Mold or bacteria growth in improperly ventilated spaces • Interaction with animals during performances or live exhibits • Exposure to infectious diseases |
Keep learning:
Ways to identify environmental hazards
Some ways to identify common environmental hazards include:
- checking for air quality issues: look for dust, fumes, or poor ventilation, especially when working with paints, solvents, or other chemicals
- inspecting storage and disposal methods: make sure chemicals, paints, and materials are stored safely and disposed of according to regulations to avoid leaks or spills
- assessing noise levels: identify areas where loud equipment or music may create noise hazards for workers
- reviewing lighting and temperature: check that workspaces are adequately lit and that heating or cooling systems keep the environment comfortable and safe
- observing outdoor areas: if work is performed outdoors or in shared spaces, look for hazards such as slippery surfaces, unstable ground, or extreme weather risk
- consulting workers: workers can give valuable insights about environmental conditions that may not be immediately visible. For example, strong odours, overheating equipment, or frequent discomfort.
Assessing environmental risks
Once an environmental hazard has been identified, the next step is assessing the risks associated with them. This involves:
- evaluating the likelihood of harm: consider how often workers are exposed to the environmental hazard and the chances of it causing harm. For example, harm from chemical exposure, noise-induced hearing loss, or slips on wet surfaces.
- assessing the severity of harm: consider how serious the consequences could be. For example, would exposure to chemicals cause minor skin irritation, or significant health or environmental damage?
- using assessment tools: tools like checklists or risk matrices can help evaluate and prioritise risks, helping you focus on the most significant issues first. Learn more about risk matrices on our managing hazards and risks page.
Controlling environmental hazards
The goal of managing risk of harm from environmental hazards is to:
- eliminate risk wherever possible, and
- reduce any remaining risk to an acceptable level.
Use a hierarchy of control measures to reduce exposure to hazards. Learn more on our managing hazards and risks page.
Ways to control physical risks
|
How to do it |
Some common examples |
|---|---|
|
Eliminate or substitute |
Replace hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives |
|
Engineering |
Install soundproofing or ventilation systems to reduce the risks related to sound or fumes |
|
Administrative |
Develop clear work schedules to prevent fatigue in extreme temperatures |
|
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) |
Provide earplugs, gloves or respirators as needed |
Keep learning:
Keeping records
It is essential to maintain clear and accurate risk management records.
- Keep records of identified risks and control measures implemented.
- Regularly update assessments as conditions change.
- Learn more about record keeping obligations.
Case study: Loud sound effects in the rehearsal period
A theatre company identifies hearing risks for its crew due to prolonged exposure to loud sound effects during rehearsals. The company takes steps to reduce hearing risks and promote a safer environment during rehearsals.
First, they identify the hazard
During rehearsals, the company notices that crew members are exposed to loud sound effects over extended periods. Complaints about ringing ears and discomfort after rehearsals prompt the company to investigate noise levels. Sound level measurements confirm prolonged exposure to levels that can harm hearing.
Then they assess the risk
The risk is that crew members may experience noise-induced hearing loss or other hearing-related issues.
The likelihood of harm was high due to daily exposure during rehearsals, and the consequences include long-term damage to hearing.
They control the risk
To address the hazard, the company:
- implements quieter sound technology to lower noise levels at the source
- provides crew members with high-quality ear protection and trains them to use the protective equipment properly
- schedules sound-level breaks to reduce noise exposure risks and give the crew’s ears time to recover.
They regularly review the controls
Doing regular sound level checks ensures the technology performs as expected and ear protection remains effective.
Workers are encouraged to report any ongoing concerns or discomfort.
They look out for other reasons to review the controls
The theatre company also reviews and reassess the risk of sound exposure:
- when it introduces new sound equipment or effects
- when it receives reports of hearing discomfort or incidents
- annually in scheduled reviews of noise levels and hearing protection measures.
Case study: Preventing laser light eye injuries at the dance party
A dance party features a high-intensity laser light show as part of the act. The lasers pose a significant risk of eye injury if not properly controlled.
The organisers take steps to minimises risks while still creating an engaging performance.
First, they identify the hazard
A dance party includes a high-intensity laser light show as part of the performance. During event planning, the organisers identify the hazard by reviewing laser safety guidelines and consulting with specialists. They recognise that direct exposure to laser beams can cause serious eye injuries to performers, staff, and the audience.
Then they assess the risk
The main risk is eye damage from accidental exposure to high-powered laser beams.
The likelihood of injury increases if lasers are not properly controlled, and the consequences can include temporary vision impairment or permanent eye damage.
They control the risk
To minimise the risk, the organisers implement the following safety measures:
- training laser operators to ensure lasers are set up and used safely
- marking restricted areas to keep performers and audience members away from hazardous laser zones
- using beam stop mechanisms to prevent accidental direct exposure to laser beams.
They regularly review the controls
The organisers conduct safety checks before and during the event to ensure laser equipment is functioning correctly. Operators monitor beam direction and power levels, and any safety concerns are reported immediately.
They look out for other reasons to review the controls
The organisers also review and reassess the risk when:
- there is malfunction or safety concern during the event
- there’s a change in laser equipment or setup
- there are updates to laser safety regulations.
- they get feedback from operators or event staff.
More in this section:
About managing workplace hazards and risks
Identifying hazards and taking proactive steps to manage risks creates safer work environments, prevents injuries and helps workplaces meet their legal obligations. It is crucial for every creative workplace.
Physical hazards in the workplace
Understanding and controlling physical hazards can create a thriving, safe space for creativity to flourish. It’s also the law (and key to meeting WHS obligations)
Psychosocial hazards in the workplace
Understanding and managing psychosocial hazards helps create a great workplace culture and prevent psychological injuries (and is key to meeting your WHS obligations)
High risk work
High risk work is any work that requires a high risk work license. Understand the essential WHS requirements so you can create a safe workplace and meet your legal responsibilities.
