Why We Ask These Questions:
To make sure your site is legally safe, secure, and ready in case of an emergency. These checks protect your staff, your clients, and your business.
What It’s Based On:
- WHS Regulations – Emergency Plans (r.43), Managing Risks to Health and Safety (Part 3.1) & Traffic Management (Part 3.1)
- AFRA Constitution – Clause 9(f): Premises deficiencies identified during audits must be rectified
- Code of Conduct – Clause 3: Maintain professional, adequate and secure premises (Clause 5 covers safe vehicle and equipment operations)
What We Are Looking For:
| Question | Why It Matters | What You Need to Show |
| Does the depot have security fencing? | Stops unauthorised access and supports WHS compliance | Perimeter fencing or security boundary |
| Is there a designated emergency assembly point? | Needed in emergencies for evacuation | Clearly marked assembly area |
| Is there traffic management signage in place covering speed limits, forklifts, parking, visitors parking and vehicle directions? | Prevents accidents with vehicles and pedestrians | Speed signs, forklift warnings, line marking |
| Does the depot / office have a security system? | Protects customer goods and business property | Alarm, locks, cameras, etc. |
| Is the office in good condition? | Reflects professionalism and AFRA standards | Clean, tidy, presentable space |
Legal Basis By State/Territory:
| State/Territory | Your Duty (WHS Act & Sections) | Emergency Plans & Exits | Signage | Traffic & Fencing | Regulator |
| NSW | Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) ss 19–20 – primary duty of care | Keep emergency plans current, run regular drills, and maintain exits. | Post clear hazard signs wherever risks aren’t obvious. | Design traffic routes and fence off danger zones. | SafeWork NSW |
| VIC | Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic) ss 21–22 – employer duties | Maintain up-to-date evacuation procedures, practice drills and mark exits clearly. | Install warning signs for every hazard. | Set out traffic routes, install barriers, include fencing in controls. | WorkSafe Victoria |
| QLD | Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Qld) ss 19–20 – primary duty of care | Keep evacuation plans current, practise them, ensure exits meet specs. | Display safety signage wherever needed. | Control vehicle movements and fence off risky areas. | Workplace Health & Safety Qld |
| SA | Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA) ss 19–21 – primary duty of care | Have emergency plans in place, test regularly, and keep exits clear. | Post signs to highlight every hazard. | Include traffic management and fencing in risk controls. | SafeWork SA |
| WA | Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA) ss 19–21 – primary duty of care | Draft, maintain and test your emergency procedures and exits. | Use hazard signage to make every risk obvious. | Plan traffic flows and erect fences where they reduce risk. | WorkSafe WA |
| TAS | Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (Tas) ss 19–22 – primary duty of care | Keep your emergency plan current, signpost and unobstructed exits. | Ensure all hazards carry clear, compliant signs. | Manage vehicle routes and fence off any danger zones. | WorkSafe Tasmania |
| ACT | Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (ACT) ss 19–21 – primary duty of care | Maintain an accessible emergency plan, run drills, and signpost exits. | Post safety signs for hidden and obvious risks. | Integrate traffic controls and fencing into your safety strategy. | WorkSafe ACT |
| NT | WHS (National Uniform Legislation) Act 2011 (NT) ss 19–20 – primary duty of care | Prepare, update and test evacuation plans; keep all exits compliant. | Use clear signage to flag any hazard. | Include traffic management measures and fencing in your risk plan. | NT WorkSafe |