Research & Research Study

The University acknowledges its obligation to provide a healthy and safe working environment for its staff, students and visitors. The University policy on Occupational Health and Safety is set out in the Calendar and a summary of the policy is outlined in the appendix of the Enrolment Information for Higher Degree Research Students which is made available to all commencing Research Students. Details on practical measures for personal safety on campus, especially at night, are available on the Occupational, Health and Safety (OHS) Unit website.

All members of Macquarie University including students have a duty to care for their personal safety and the safety of others. The Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and its Regulation aim to ensure that everyone is free, as far as practicable, from the risk of disease or injury created by workplaces and workplace activities and it imposes obligations on all persons (including students).  Supervisors are required to be aware of safety issues affecting candidates, particularly where their research involves high risk or potentially high risk activities.  Supervisors will ensure that candidates are provided with appropriate induction, training, risk assessment, and supervision when using university equipment, laboratories, plant and undertaking other high risk activities.

Each student has responsibilities for health and safety by:

• Complying with health and safety instructions;
• Taking action to avoid, eliminate or minimise hazards;
• Making proper use of personal protective equipment (if required);
• Not wilfully placing anyone at risk in health and safety matters;
• Seeking information and advice where necessary; and
• Being familiar with reporting, emergency and evacuation procedures.

Incident/Accident Reporting

The University has a statutory obligation to record all injuries, illnesses and dangerous events that take place on its site where work is being performed for the University. The particulars should be recorded on the designated form as soon as possible after the occurrence of such an event.

Reporting forms are available in the Student Information Centre and Security. Students experiencing any work related accident or incident must complete the University Incident and Accident Report form available at www.pers.mq.edu.au/safetycare/forms/Form5a.pdf and follow the instructions on the form.

Reporting of Emergencies

For all Emergencies ring 9999 (24 hour service) and state:

• The problem: (e.g. fire, medical emergency, assault)
• Location of the emergency
• Your name and telephone extension.

Security staff will make all arrangements.

If you cannot reach Ext. 9999 – Dial 0000 for ambulance, fire brigade, or police.

First Aid

If you need medical first aid, ring Ext. 9999.

Procedures for Building Evacuations

When there is an alarm or an instruction is given by a Warden:

• Walk, do not run, to the nearest safe EXIT;
• Do NOT use lifts;
• Proceed to assembly point as directed;
• Return to the building only when instructed by a Warden.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in buildings, near building entrances, windows or in University vehicles.

Bicycle Riding, Skateboarding and Roller Blades

Bicycle riding, skateboarding and rollerblading are not permitted on pedestrian paths, car parks or roads. Bicycle riding is permitted on general access roads. Cyclists are required to leave their bicycles at the bicycle stands located outside major buildings or bicycle lockers (F5 car park).

For further information contact:

Occupational Health and Safety
Phone: (02) 9850 9774
Fax: (02) 9850 9763

Safety and Security

University security is available 24 hours a day for your personal safety and security on campus. The Security Office is located at the intersection of Macquarie Drive and Central Avenue and can be contacted on the Safety Help Line and Safety Escorts:

Phone: (02) 9850 7112 or Ext. 7112

Safety Hints

Hints for your personal safety:

• Use the main illuminated pathways.
• Walk in the company of others.
• Seek help if you feel any threat to your safety.
• Use the Safety Escort and Courtesy Bus services.

Hints for personal property:

• Never leave your bag unattended, even for a short time.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view while studying.
• Be especially careful not to leave valuable and personal items in vehicles or in the Library carrels.

Campus Services

Courtesy Bus

Throughout the year during term, a free Courtesy Bus operates every 30 minutes in the evenings from 6 pm to 11 pm, providing safe transport for individuals around the Campus to their cars, bus stops and student housing.

Safety Escorts

Security Services Officers are available for personal safety escorts at times when the Courtesy Bus is not operating.

First-aid and Counselling

Doctors and counsellors are available on campus from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. Call (02) 9850 7497 to arrange for an appointment. For all first-aid requirements call the Security Services Help Line.

Safety and Security Help

Staff, students and visitors are advised to report any assault, theft or harassment. Knowledge of such reports is useful in planning security arrangements. All reports will remain confidential.