Course coordinator
Ms Amanda Lacey
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2026 (23/02/2026 - 20/06/2026)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
This course will introduce students to the scope of occupational health and safety practice (OHS) within Australia and internationally. Topics covered will include, the history of OHS, the role of risk management in OHS practice, the health and economic consequences of occupational injury and disease, national and international bodies with regulatory and advisory roles in OHS and the tools available to OHS professionals for the control and minimisation of workplace injury and illness. Students will be exposed to a range of OHS professionals and their roles in the prevention of injury and illness in the workplace.
OHSS1000 has been developed to provide an overview of the impact work has on society, and the role everyone can play in eliminating fatalities, injury and disease attributed to work. Through a range of online resources and workshops students will develop an understanding of the importance of occupational health and safety and gain basic skills in OHS risk management.
Course requirements
Assumed background
This is a popular elective with students from all Faculties across UQ, including Study Abroad students. All students are welcome and no prior knowledge is assumed, just an interest in making the workplace safer and healthier.
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
OHSS7000 (co-taught)
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Ms Amanda Lacey
Associate Professor Margaret Cook
Tutor
Ms Shintia Arini
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
All the lecture/theory content for this course will be delivered via Blackboard, there is no timetabled lecture time. The practical aspects of this course will be delivered via an in-person two hour workshop on a weekly basis. A range of in-class activities will be conducted during workshop times.
Aims and outcomes
This course aims to introduce students to the key concepts of occupational health and safety.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of occupational health and safety principles and practice in the prevention of workplace illness and disease.
LO2.
Identify and use the basic concepts of OHS risk management.
LO3.
Demonstrate an understanding of the roles of the various OHS professionals in the prevention of workplace illness and disease.
LO4.
Identify and evaluate the hazards which may be present in common workplaces and determine appropriate control strategies.
LO5.
Demonstrate empathy and sensitivity in recognising and appreciating the lived experiences of workers and understand how these stories drive the pursuit of decent work for all.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Participation/ Student contribution, Quiz |
Participation in Weekly Workshops
|
20% |
Week 2 - Week 12 |
| Tutorial/ Problem Set |
Worksheet Submission
|
30% |
Due within 48 hours of the conclusion of the workshop by the Team Leader of that week. |
| Reflection |
Topic Reflection
|
20% |
17/04/2026 5:00 pm |
| Examination |
End of Semester Exam
|
30% |
End of Semester Exam Period 6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Participation in Weekly Workshops
- Identity Verified
- Team or group-based
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Oral
- Category
- Participation/ Student contribution, Quiz
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
Week 2 - Week 12
Task description
Students will accrue 1 mark for each workshop session (Weeks 2 - 12) they participate in-person in (Attendance at Week 1 for the introduction to the courses does not count). In addition students will work in their teams to complete an online Legislation Quiz in Week 8 which is weighted at 10%.
Students who cannot attend an in-person workshop session due to extenuating circumstance should contact the Course Coordinator to explore alternative assessment opportunities.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance. A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
This assessment requires active student participation. Extension requests are not applicable. Students who cannot attend an in-person workshop session due to extenuating circumstance should contact the Course Coordinator to explore alternative assessment opportunities.
Late submission
Submission must be made in person in the workshop. Students who cannot attend an in-person workshop session due to extenuating circumstance should contact the Course Coordinator to explore alternative assessment opportunities.
Worksheet Submission
- Team or group-based
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Tutorial/ Problem Set
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
Due within 48 hours of the conclusion of the workshop by the Team Leader of that week.
- Other conditions
- Work integrated learning.
Task description
Weekly worksheets:
- Worksheets are to be completed as a group during the workshop session time, the nominated team leader for that week will be responsible for reporting back during the workshop and for submitting the completed worksheet to Turnitin (within 48 hours of the conclusion of the workshop). The team leader only will be assigned marks for the submitted worksheet.
- Each student will be required to submit 2 worksheets over the semester (these worksheets must align with the weeks they were the nominated team leader), they will be weighted at 15% each for a total of 30%.
- If the nominated team leader for a week is absent that student will receive a mark of zero. If there are extenuating circumstances the student must contact the course coordinator within 24 hours and alternative arrangements may be made.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly note any use of AI or MT. A failure to declare generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. Refer to Blackboard for the submission link. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Topic Reflection
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Reflection
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
17/04/2026 5:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Student specific.
Task description
Students are to write a personal reflection based on the online content from one of Modules 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6. Topic reflections CAN NOT be written for weeks in which you were the Team Leader and submitted the worksheet.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly note any use of AI or MT. A failure to declare generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. Refer to Blackboard for the submission link. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
End of Semester Exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026
- Other conditions
- Secure.
Task description
Students will be presented with a series of short answer questions in which they will need to demonstrate their ability to understand and apply the full content of the course.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See Additional Course Grading Information for the hurdle information relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdle
In order to pass this course, you must meet the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
You must obtain 45% or more on the End of Semester Exam.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment.
Refer to the link above for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply. Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met. Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Applications for Extensions to Assessment Due Dates
Read the information contained in the following links carefully before submitting an application for extension to assessment due date.
For guidance on applying for an extension, information is available here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension
For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D): https://policies.uq.edu.au/document/view-current.php?id=184
Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/uq-policies-and-rules/requirements-medical-certificates
Assessment Submission
It is the responsibility of the student to ensure the on time, correct and complete submission of all assessment items. Please ensure you receive and save the submission confirmation for all submitted items, you may be asked to produce this as evidence of your submission.
A note for repeating students in this course
Any student who enrols in a courseﾠmust notﾠbe given exemption or partial credit from their previous attempt(s) for any individual piece of assessment.ﾠInstead, the student must successfully complete all of the learning activities and assessment items within the study period of enrolmentﾠ(PPL Assessment - Procedures).
If the same assessment item is set from one year to the next, repeating students are allowed to submit the same work they submitted in previous attempts at the course. Where possible SENV recommends that you use the feedback you received in your last attempt to improve parts of the item where you lost marks. Resubmission of an altered or unaltered assessment item by a repeating student (where the same assessment has been set) will not be considered as self-plagiarism.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (23 Feb - 01 Mar) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 1: Work and OHS: A history lesson An introduction to OHSS1000. A review of the history of OHS, with reference to Ancient Egypt, the Ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Renaissance mining boom, the founding of occupational medicine, and the introduction of OHS legislation in the 18th century. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 1: OHS a professional practice An introduction to the course along with an exploration of occupational health and safety as a professional practice. |
|
Week 2 (02 Mar - 08 Mar) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 2: Decent work for all - an ILO Sustainability Goal This topic presents the global perspective of workplace fatalities, including reference to the ILO's Decent Work program and a discussion of modern slavery. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 2: The impact of work globally In this workshop students will explore work being undertaken at an international level to improve workplace health and safety |
|
Week 3 (09 Mar - 15 Mar) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 3: Getting sick: work-related disease Students are introduced to the specialist field of "Occupational Health". The management of disease and illness in the workplace is discussed, including reference to International bodies such as the World Health Organisation and the International Labour Organisation. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 3: Occupational Disease A review of the literature to identify emerging issues in occupational health. |
|
Week 4 (16 Mar - 22 Mar) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 4: Accidents - when it all goes wrong This topic introduces accident investigation and discusses different theoretical models for accident analysis. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 4: Accident Investigation Students, using a case study, discuss some of the causative factors that led to the incident. |
|
Week 5 (23 Mar - 29 Mar) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 5: What is Risk? An introduction to the field of Risk Management. Risk terminology is presented. The field of risk perception is also explored. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 5: Risk Perception and Hazard ID Students review the DVD "Risk + Hazard + Outrage" and discuss risk perceptions and risk communication. Students reflect on the risks they take in their lives, and what influences their risk choices. |
|
Week 6 (30 Mar - 05 Apr) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 6: Spot the hazard and assess the risk Students are introduced to the concepts of OHS risk management, including the hierarchy of controls. Discussion includes how to meet legal obligations for risk assessments, in particular how to take risk assessments beyond paperwork. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 6: Risk Assessment in Practice Students, using a case study, apply the Qld Code of Practice Risk Matrix and develop a range of control strategies. |
|
Week 7 (13 Apr - 19 Apr) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 7: Managing OHS risk An introduction to OHS management, in particular the role of safe places and safe people. The concepts of safety culture and safety climate are introduced, along with reference to the concept of resilience engineering. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 7: OHS Management Systems Students using a case study will explore the role of OHSMS and OHS auditing. |
|
Week 8 (20 Apr - 26 Apr) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 8: Qld OHS Legislation - WHS Act & Regulations An introduction to the Queensland WHS Regulatory framework, including an overview of the historical development and current status. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 8: Legislation Look-up Students will work in teams to find references within the QLD Work Health and Safety Act and Regulations |
|
Week 9 (27 Apr - 03 May) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 9: Plant and machinery safety An introduction to hazards and controls for plant and machinery in the workplace. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 9: Is that safe to use? A student led review of the hazards associated with plant, and the preventative strategies available. |
|
Week 10 (04 May - 10 May) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 10 Psychosocial hazards An introduction to stress, violence and bullying in the workplace. Including a review of current preventative strategies. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 10: Stress at Work A student led review of the hazards associated with occupational stress, and the preventative strategies available. |
|
Week 11 (11 May - 17 May) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 11: Occupational Hygiene: Chemicals at work An overview of the discipline of Occupational Hygiene, introduction to key concepts such as ALARA, workplace exposure standards, routes of entry. Review of legislative requirements in respect to hazardous substances and dangerous goods. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 11: Hazardous Chemicals A detailed review of the the Hazardous Chemicals Regulations, including an introduction to the ChemWatch software. |
|
Week 12 (18 May - 24 May) |
Not Timetabled |
Module 12: Ergonomics - optimising human performance An overview of the discipline of Occupational Ergonomics, with particular reference to the concepts of manual tasks and cognitive ergonomics. |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 12: Hazardous Manual Tasks Discussion and application of the tools available to assess the risks associated with manual tasks in the workplace. |
|
Week 13 (25 May - 31 May) |
Workshop |
Workshop Week 13: Exam Review Time will be provided to review a sample end of semester exam paper. |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
- AI for Assessment Guide
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.