Free Change Management Form Template
Download our free Change Management Form Template:
*For internal use only. Not for resale or redistribution. By downloading, you agree to our Free Resources Licensing Agreement.
Purpose of Document
Purpose of DocumentChange Management Forms are used to assess the WHS risks of proposed changes in the workplace. The primary objective is to ensure the safety of workers by identifying, assessing and managing the risks of changes that significantly affect the workplace. This form is broadly aligned with AS/NZS 45001:2018.
How to Use
This form should be used to document how proposed changes will impact workplace safety (and environment and quality) and how these impacts will be managed to ensure legal compliance and the safety of workers.
This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that may need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Change Management Forms should be completed whenever there is a significant change that will affect the safety of workers or others. For example, if a new piece of plant is being used that workers are not familiar with.
Who Should Use
This form can be completed by your Safety Advisor, Project Manager or other Manager in your organization. It should be completed in consultation with workers who are affected by the change.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to use a Change Management Form. However, it is best practice, especially for larger companies. It can help meet general legal duties, including:
- s(19) WHS Act – Primary Duty of Care
Effective management of workplace change is also a requirement of AS/NZS 45001:2018.
FAQ
What is change management?
Change management in safety refers to a systematic approach to handling organizational changes that impact safety, health, and environmental aspects.
What are the requirements for management of change in AS/NZS 45001:2018?
The purpose behind the change management procedure is to improve occupational health and safety in the workplace. This is achieved by reducing the emergence of new hazards and risks related to occupational health and safety as various changes take place. These changes can include updates in technology, equipment, infrastructure, work practices, and procedures.
Which workplace changes need to be managed by a “Management of Change Procedure”?
Any change that may significantly impact upon the safety of workers or others.
Article Sources and Further Reading
- Suitable Duties (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/book/comparison-workers-compensation-arrangements-australia-and-new-zealand-2021-28th-edition/chapter-6-return-work/table-62c-suitable-duties>
- National Return to Work Strategy (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/workers-compensation/national-return-work-strategy>