Unauthorised access toolbox talk

What it is

People entering a work area, site or plant without authority, putting themselves at risk or leaving the site insecure.

Controls to check, most effective first

1. Secure the site perimeter with fencing and lockable gates, and lock them at the end of each day.
2. Control entry through a single point with sign-in, induction and visitor escort procedures.
3. Display signs at entry points stating who may enter, the required PPE and where visitors must report.
4. Isolate plant and remove keys, and remove or block ladders and scaffold access when the site is unattended.
5. Barricade and sign excavations, openings and hazardous work zones so members of the public cannot wander in.

Where it comes up on the job

Work steps from SafetyDocs templates that deal with unauthorised access:

• Work area set-upSecure the work area against unauthorised access and protect the public and pedestrians.From Plumbing Drainage
• On completionSecure the site and equipment to prevent unauthorised access and accidents.From Decoration Installation - Removal
• Out-of-hours / night workManage worker fatigue and prevent unauthorised access during night workFrom Floor Covering Removal
• Assess on-site conditionsAssess the site, secure the work area and control unauthorised accessFrom Site Establishment
• Loading & unloading area set-upSet up exclusion zones and signage to prevent unauthorised access.From Site Mobilisation

Questions for the crew

1. Where could unauthorised access come up on this job today?
2. The most effective control is: “Secure the site perimeter with fencing and lockable gates, and lock them at the end of each day”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
3. Which controls for unauthorised access are missing or not working on this site?
4. When would you stop work because of unauthorised access, and who would you tell?
5. How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?