Education Queensland Activity Analysis School...

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Education Queensland Activity Analysis

School Officer This report was compiled following a request from the Organisational Health Unit, Education Queensland. The purpose of this report is to document the critical physical job demands of the position of School Officer within Education Queensland and to provide supplementary information relating to other critical demands in the psychosocial and social/interpersonal areas, which may interact with physical task performance. This information may then be used for the following purposes; development of safe work procedures, musculoskeletal risk identification, identification of job-relevant pre-employment/post-offer testing requirements, development of suitable duties programs and identification of activities which would benefit from the introduction of environmental or task redesign. Observations and interviews conducted for the preparation of this report were completed at the West End State School, Geebung Special School, Sandgate District State High School and Ferny Grove State High School. The School Officer at each school was interviewed, as well as the Principal in some instances. This information was supplemented by the position description provided by Education Queensland. Employer: Education Queensland Position: School Officer Role: Janitor / Groundsmen in Queensland work across a wide variety of tasks and environments, and across many diverse educational institutions. The primary purpose of this role is to ensure that school grounds are maintained in a neat, tidy, safe and hygienic manner. Their role encompasses grounds beautification, general school maintenance tasks, larger maintenance projects, pool maintenance, general cleaning tasks, general assistance with manual tasks around the school and changing the school sign. The School Officer is also required to interact with Teachers, Cleaners, Registrar, Principal and the School Facilities Officer in relation to grounds care duties and maintenance tasks. In some instances the Janitor /Groundsman may act in the role of School Facilities officer, requiring liaison with external contractors and overseeing of larger maintenance projects. The School Officer may at times also be required to

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interact with students, parents and visitors in an informal context e.g. directing parents and visitors to available car parks on school grounds during special events. In some settings, the School Officer may be listed as the school’s after hours contact and be required to attend the school for matters relating to security or maintenance, outside of usual working hours. There will be some variation in the time spent by the School Officer performing each of these tasks depending on seasonal variations, the individual school environment and the scope of the role (established through consultation with the school Principal and Registrar). It should be noted that the School Officer may at times be required to perform tasks that would normally necessitate the services of a qualified tradesperson. However, there will be variation in the duties performed by the individual School Officer based on their trade background, qualifications and the individual school environment. Examples of trade backgrounds of Janitor / Groundsmen interviewed included horticulture, building and welding. Within some educational facilities the position of School Officer is a split role. In these instances the Janitor will typically spend more time on indoor maintenance tasks, with the Groundsman more involved in outdoor tasks related to grounds maintenance and beautification. Due to the overlap that may occur between these roles, and because of the heavy nature of some activities, the Janitor and the Groundsman may work together to complete work tasks. Furthermore, depending on individual work load and work flow, the Janitor may be required to perform tasks that would usually be completed by the Groundsman and vice versa. Examples of such tasks include moving furniture, pool maintenance and cleaning of rubbish bins. Educational Facilities: These include State Primary Schools, State Secondary Schools and Special Schools. Indoor and Outdoor Work Environments: In general these environments will vary depending upon the age, terrain and layout of the particular school. Outdoor Work Environments on Campus: These environments vary greatly depending on the particular educational institution. Outdoor areas may include the swimming pool area, garden areas, playground areas, sporting ovals, and balconies / pathways. The nature of the shared-space terrain at each school may vary, and in those circumstances where the site terrain incorporates changes in level, these may be accessed by stairs, ramps or elevators. The terrain of such outdoor areas may vary between schools and include grass, concrete, gravel and dirt pathways. Indoor Work Environments on Campus: Work may be conducted in indoor classroom environments, and in some cases also in a dedicated workshop. There may also be gymnasiums, assembly halls, staff and administrative offices and storage sheds. The aforementioned environments generally have flat, non-

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slip floor surfaces and some indoor group and administrative areas may be climate controlled. Shift Length / Work Hours: Janitor / Groundsmen generally work 38 hours per week plus ADO time (Accumulated Days Off), which equates to approximately 8 hours per day. Janitor / Groundsmen generally commence work early in the morning (about 6:00 - 6.30 am) in order to have the grounds prepared prior to student arrival. The School Officer may at times choose to work additional hours outside of these times, to assist with setting up or packing up for extra-curricular events held outside of school hours. Scheduled breaks: Formally, Janitor / Groundsmen are entitled to a total of 1 hours break. Break times may vary in duration and are taken at the discretion of the employee to fit around work tasks.

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Examples of Equipment Routinely Handled by School Officer:

Caption: examples of typical step ladders used by Janitor / Groundsmen and different school environments they are used in.

Step ladder Step ladders (3 m) are used to access maintenance and grounds beautification tasks out of reach of the School Officer (e.g. light bulbs, ceilings, pruning of shrubs or trees). Whilst step ladders should only be used on flat, stable floor surfaces some activities may require their use on uneven or variable terrain (e.g. outdoor activities such as pruning of shrubs). The approximate weight of a 3 m ladder is 8.6kgs. Janitor / Groundsmen interviewed reported that they do not perform tasks above approximately 2.4 m in height and therefore are not required to use extension ladders. They reported that they would engage external contractors for such tasks e.g. retrieving sports equipment from rooves of school buildings, maintenance of school building rooves etc.

Caption: example of a typical trolley used by a Janitor / Groundsmen and a school environment in which it may be used.

Trolley Wheeled trolleys are often used in order to assist the School Officer to transport heavier items (such as furniture) between locations within the school environment.

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Caption: Example of a typical wheelbarrow used by a Janitor / Groundsmen within the school environment.

Wheelbarrow The use of a wheelbarrow is often required in order to complete garden maintenance and grounds beautification duties.

Caption: Examples of typical tools used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

General tools The use of general hand-held tools (such as spanners, hammers, screwdrivers and pliers) is often required in order to complete general maintenance tasks within the school environment.

Caption: Examples of a typical drill, circular saw and belt sander that may be used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Power tools The use of power tools (such as drills, grinders, sanders, chainsaws and circular saws) is often required in order to complete general and long term maintenance tasks within the school environment. The average weight of these power tools is 3 to 5 kg.

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Caption: Examples of typical leaf blowers, hand held and back pack, used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Leaf blower A leaf blower is used to clear pathways and other public areas of fallen leaves. Leaf blowers may vary slightly between schools and may be hand held or a back pack model. The approximate weight of a hand held leaf blower is 5 kg and the approximate weight of a back pack leaf blower is 10 kg.

Caption: Examples of typical harness whipper-snippers used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Whipper-Snipper A whipper-snipper is used to ensure that the edges of grassed areas are kept neat and tidy. In schools adjacent to bush land, the whipper-snipper may also be utilized for brush cutting. Whipper-snippers may vary slightly between schools and may be hand held or on a harness (one shouldered strap). These mechanisms weigh approximately 8.5 kg.

Caption: Examples of typical ride on mowers used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Lawn Mower Lawn mowers are used to maintain grassed areas of the school. Lawn mowers may vary slightly between schools and may be push mowers or ride on mowers.

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Caption: Examples of typical secateurs used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Secateurs Secateurs are used to prune trees and shrubs and to assist with grounds beautification. Secateurs may vary slightly between schools. The approximate weight of a pair of secateurs is 1.2 kg.

Caption: Example of a typical hedge trimmer used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Hedge Trimmer Hedge trimmers are used to maintain shrubs and to assist with grounds beautification. Hedge trimmers may vary slightly between schools. Hedge trimmers are generally battery operated and weigh approximately 3 kg.

Caption: Example of a typical back pack herbicide dispenser used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Herbicide Dispenser Herbicides such as Roundup are used to maintain grassed areas and assist with grounds beautification. Depending on the school environment herbicide dispensers may be a hand held or back pack model, or units that are loaded onto tractors. Hand held and back pack dispensers generally accommodate 10-15 litres of liquid and therefore weigh approximately 10 to 15 kg.

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Caption: Example of a typical tractor used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Tractor Tractors are used in larger schools to maintain grassed areas. Depending on the type of PTO (power take off) equipment connected to the tractor, it can be employed in work tasks such as slashing, mowing, line marking and herbicide spraying. Tractors may vary slightly between schools and not all schools may have a tractor available for use by the School Officer.

Caption: Examples of typical PTO equipment used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

PTO (power take off) Equipment PTO equipment is attached to the tractor to assist with maintenance of grassed areas and grounds beautification. PTO equipment may vary slightly between schools and not all schools may have PTO equipment available for use by the School Officer. Push and pull forces required to connect and disconnect PTO equipment will vary slightly between schools and based on the terrain on which they are being used. Average maximum push/pull force is 90 Newtons of Force.

Caption: Examples of typical pool maintenance equipment (vacuum and hose) used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments.

Pool Maintenance Equipment Vacuums and hoses are commonly used to maintain school pools. The equipment used will vary slightly between schools and not all schools will have a pool. These tools are generally extendable and weigh up to approximately 6 kg.

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* No Photo Available- Education Queensland to insert if necessary*

Signage Equipment The School Officer is required to use signage equipment (including a height adjustment mechanism) in order to change the message displayed on the school sign.


Portable Communication Device The School Officer may be required to use a portable communication device to maintain contact with other school staff and to receive guidance on tasks that need to be completed. The type of communication device used may vary between schools and is most likely to be a ‘walkie-talkie’ or mobile phone.

Caption: Example of a typical engraving tool used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments

Hand Held Engraving Tool The School Officer may be required to engrave equipment and furniture with school details, for auditing and security purposes. Engraving tools may vary slightly between schools and not all schools use an engraving tool.


Vehicle In some school environments, the School Officer may be required to operate a vehicle for work tasks such as transporting school monies and collecting school post. Vehicles may vary slightly between schools and not all Janitor / Groundsmen will have access to a vehicle.

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Caption: Examples of typical chemicals used by Janitor / Groundsmen in school environments (paint stripper, mark remover, cyanuric acid).

Chemicals The Janitor/ Groundsman may be required to use a range of chemicals to assist in pool maintenance, grounds beautification and maintenance of grassed areas. These chemicals may vary slightly between schools and not all chemicals will be used by all schools. See individual activities for specific chemicals that may be handled.

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Work Activity: Grounds Beautification

Description: Grounds beautification is a major part of the School Officer’s role. This includes such activities as cutting down trees, applying mulch / fertiliser to the gardens, planting trees and landscaping the grounds. Please note that the tasks of mowing and using the whipper-snipper have been addressed separately for the purposes of this report. Activity Frequency1: Rare – constant. This depends on the time of year, seasonal variations and the specific requirements of the school at that time. (Activity frequency key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional = 35minutes-2.25 hrs; Frequent =

2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs; Constant = 4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks). Environmental Context: Outdoors in school grounds. Outdoor school environments vary in layout, surfaces and terrain between different educational facilities. This task is mostly performed in the garden areas of the school, and therefore may require negotiation of significant slopes and surfaces such as dirt / mud / mulches. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: Yes. This activity is essential to the role of School Officer.

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Physical Demands2: Grounds Beautification Standing: (dynamic) required in order to complete this task

Walking: may be required over varying terrains, slopes and surfaces in order to complete this task. Most often, this task will be completed within garden environments over such surfaces as dirt / mud / mulches

Lifting: various items in order to complete the required task. These could include lopped branches from trees, a chainsaw, new plants, bags of fertiliser / mulch etc. Heavier lifting may be required at times depending on the task required, but this may sometimes be done with the assistance of another staff member or staff members

Carrying: loads of varying dimensions and weights (see above), over variable distances and surfaces (depending on the school environment and the task requirements. A wheelbarrow may sometimes be used to eliminate the need for carrying over longer distances in the garden environment

Pushing: items loaded into a wheelbarrow. Push force required will depend on the weight of the load and on the surface over which the wheelbarrow is being pushed

Pulling: items to drag them rather than lifting / carrying (e.g.: tree branches). Pull force required will depend on the weight of the load and on the surface over which the item is being pulled

Climbing: ladders or trees may be required for such tasks as lopping branches from trees or pruning tall bushes

Stooping: may be required in order to lift / replace items from ground level. This may also be required on a repetitive basis for such tasks as shovelling

Crouching: may be required in order to lift / replace items from ground level, or to perform such tasks as weeding or planting shrubs

Kneeling: may be required on a sustained basis in order to perform such tasks as weeding or planting new shrubs

Reaching: overhead, in front and downwards in order to access tasks positioned at various heights. This may be required on a sustained basis for such tasks as pruning / weeding

Handling: items of varying weights and dimensions, depending on the specific task to be completed. This may include such items as chainsaws, secateurs, plants, branches, shovels, ladders and wheelbarrows. Reported estimated maximum weight for such items is 30 kg

Feeling: items (examples listed above) in order to successfully and safely complete tasks

Seeing: work environment and children in order to complete tasks successfully and safely

Use of controls: in order to operate equipment such as a chainsaw

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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: Grounds Beautification

� Assessment of sustained standing capacity

� Assessment of ability to negotiate varying terrains and surfaces when walking and carrying items weighing up to 30 kg

� Assessment of grip strength (within norms for age and gender)

� Assessment of lifting from below knee level to overhead height (up to 30kg) including awkward loads

� Assessment of ability to adopt sustained crouching, kneeling and stooping postures and return to standing

� Assessment of ability to maintain sustained reaching (overhead, forwards and downwards)

� Absence of positive signs for brachial plexus neural compromise

� Symmetry, range and discomfort with movements of the back, neck, shoulder, elbow and wrist, hips, knees and ankles Other Considerations

� History of neck/shoulder discomfort associated with overhead activities or lifting / carrying

� History of lower back pain or lower limb pain with sustained standing / walking / stooping / crouching / kneeling

� Knowledge of correct manual handling techniques

� History of lower limb injuries that may affect balance / proprioception (e.g.: severe ankle / knee sprains or surgery)

� Knowledge of required PPE to be worn during activity and it’s correct use (e.g. hearing protection)

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Photograph – Grounds Beautification:

No Photo Available (Education Queensland to Insert if Necessary)

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Work Activity: Cleaning External Surfaces

Description: The School Officer is required to clean and maintain outdoor surfaces. This will generally involve the use of a leaf-blower to tidy grounds, paths and other outdoor public areas. In some schools the School Officer may also be required to clean hard external surfaces, such as pathways or outdoor food areas using high pressure equipment, however this work activity may be performed by Cleaners in other school environments. External surfaces and equipment used will vary between schools, varying the physical demands required by this activity. Activity Frequency1: Frequent (Activity frequency key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional = 35minutes-

2.25 hrs; Frequent = 2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs; Constant = 4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks).

Environmental Context: Outdoors in school grounds. Outdoor school environments vary in layout, surfaces and terrain between different educational facilities. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: Leaf blowing: Yes. It would be impractical for another staff member to complete this duty on an ongoing basis. Use of high pressure hoses: No. Depending on the school it may be possible for another staff member (e.g. cleaning staff) to perform this duty on an ongoing basis.

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Physical Demands2: Cleaning External Surfaces Standing: (dynamic) in order to complete activity

Walking: across varying terrains and surfaces in order to complete activity across all required areas of the school

Lifting: leaf blower apparatus (5 – 10 kg) in order to complete activity

Carrying: leaf blower apparatus for the duration of the activity (up to 4 hours per day)

Pushing: high pressure equipment for the duration of the activity (up to 2 hours per day). Push force required will depend on the weight of the equipment and on the surface over which it is being pushed

Pulling: high pressure equipment for the duration of the activity (up to 2 hours per day). Pull force required will depend on the weight of the equipment and on the surface over which it is being pushed

Stooping: may be required in order to access items placed at a low level

Crouching: may be required in order to access items placed at a low level

Reaching: whilst carrying leaf blower or operating high pressure equipment in order to access all areas of the school grounds

Handling: leaf blower (5 – 10 kg) and controls, as well as high pressure equipment

Feeling: leaf blower apparatus and high pressure equipment in order to complete activity

Seeing: grounds and general environment in order to successfully complete this task

Use of controls: in order to operate leaf blower and high pressure equipment

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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: Cleaning External Surfaces


� Assessment of ability to negotiate varying terrains and surfaces when walking

� Assessment of ability to lift and carry a 10 kg weight for a sustained period

� Assessment of grip strength and endurance over a sustained period

� Assessment of ability to adopt crouching and stooping postures and return to standing


� Symmetry, range and discomfort with movements of the neck, shoulder, elbow and wrist Other Considerations

� History of neck/shoulder discomfort associated with static postures or lifting / carrying

� History of lower back pain or lower limb pain with sustained standing / walking


� Knowledge of required PPE to be worn during activity and it’s correct use (e.g. hearing protection)

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Photograph – Cleaning External Surfaces Line 1: Example of operation of a hand held leaf blower Line 2: Example of high pressure equipment

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Work Activity: Maintenance of Grassed Areas

Description: The School Officer maintains grassed areas of the school grounds including activities of mowing, slashing, spraying of herbicides and using a whipper-snipper. Depending on the school environment, maintenance of grassed areas may be completed using a push mower, ride on mower or tractor with power take off (PTO) equipment. This equipment may vary slightly between schools and push / pull forces to operate the equipment will vary according to the terrain over which it is used. Mowing of all school grounds can take up to 4 full days per week during spring and summer (using a combination of push mower, ride on mower and tractor) however this will vary according to individual school environments. This work activity can be performed for a full day at a time during the seasons of Spring and Summer. In school environments with larger grounds, the use of a tractor with PTO equipment involves manual handling of implements to be connected and disconnected to the tractor. This involves crouching and lying under the tractor to attach implements, and lifting, handling and carrying of implements from storage areas to the tractor. Examples of such equipment include slashers, line marking equipment, 6 x 4 box trailers, herbicide spray units, aerating equipment and 20 L (20 kg) fuel drums. Depending on the school environment, the School Officer may be required to maintain the tractor and associated PTO equipment. Slashing is generally done 2-3 times per year and can take up to 5 hours at a time, aerating can be up to 2 hours a day twice a year and line marking can be up to 4 days per week twice a year. However, these frequencies will vary depending on the school environment and the condition of its grounds. In times of water restrictions, when use of irrigation systems is banned, the School Officer may be required to lift and carry buckets of water to grassed areas. 9 L buckets are generally used, having an approximate weight of 9 kg, and one 9 L bucket may be carried with each hand. Where irrigation systems are able to used, the School Officer may be required to operate these systems and oversee their maintenance. This involves walking across variable terrain and handling and visually inspecting the watering system. The activity of spraying of herbicides may vary between schools. For example the School Officer at some schools may use a back pack or hand held spray unit to complete this activity, whereas schools with larger grounds may use a spray unit attached to a tractor. Hand held or back pack spray units hold approximately 10-15 litres of liquid and weigh approximately 10-15 kg. Spraying of herbicides is generally completed every 3 months, to coincide with the start of each new season, and is generally done first thing in the morning over two days to allow adequate dispersal time before students arrive at school. Activity Frequency1: Rare – Constant. This frequency varies with the seasons and water restrictions, and larger schools may perform this activity on a more regular basis. (Activity frequency key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional

= 35minutes-2.25 hrs; Frequent = 2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs; Constant = 4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks). Environmental Context: This activity is performed in outdoors grassed areas of the school. These areas can include such environments as lawns or sporting ovals. The terrain and slope of these areas vary between different educational facilities. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: Yes. This activity is one of the major roles of the School Officer, and as such it would be unreasonable to expect that these duties could be assumed by another staff member on a long-term basis. Chemicals Used? Yes. Round-up is generally used when spraying herbicides. 15L drums of ‘Superturf’ paint are also used to complete line markings on grassed areas.

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Physical Demands2: Maintenance of Grassed Areas Standing: (dynamic) required in order to complete this task

Walking: may be required over varying terrains, slopes and grassed surfaces in order to complete this task

Sitting: on the ground or on a chair may be required in order to connect PTO equipment to the tractor or ride on mower

Lifting: whipper-snipper (8 kg) in order to maintain neat lawn edges; lawnmower catcher in order to detach, empty and refit; buckets of paint for line marking machine (17 kg); buckets of water (up to 18 kg)

Carrying: whipper-snipper (8kg); buckets of water (up to 18 kg). Carrying may be required over variable distances and surfaces depending on the school environment

Pushing: lawnmower in order to mow grassed areas. The push force required to perform this task will vary depending on the terrain of the area, as well as make and model of the lawnmower being used. Pushing may also be required in schools with tractors, to connect PTO equipment. The push force required to perform this task will vary depending on the terrain of the area, as well as the implement being used (up to approximately 90 Newtons of Force, horizontally)

Pulling: a lawnmower in order to mow grassed areas. The pull force required will depend on the terrain of the area and the make and model of the lawnmower being used. Pulling may also be required in schools with tractors, to connect and disconnect PTO equipment. The pull force required to perform this task will vary depending on the terrain of the area, as well as the implement being used (up to approximately 90 Newtons of Force, horizontally)

Climbing: onto tractor; ride on mower

Balancing: may be required depending on the specific maintenance task

Stooping: to detach and refit lawnmower catcher; in order to empty and to connect and disconnect PTO equipment

Kneeling: to connect and disconnect PTO equipment

Crouching: may be required on a sustained basis to connect and disconnect PTO equipment

Reaching: out in front on a sustained basis in order to use the lawnmower, whipper-snipper and tractor

Handling: whipper-snipper (8kg), lawnmower, lawnmower catcher, PTO equipment, buckets of water, herbicide back pack


Talking: to other staff members in order to clarify specific tasks to be addressed, to students on occasion in order to ensure safety during completion of the task

Hearing: in order to communicate with others


Use of controls: in order to operate lawnmower, whipper-snipper and tractor

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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: Maintenance of Grassed Areas



� Assessment of ability to lift and carry an 8 kg weight for a sustained period


� Assessment of ability to adopt kneeling, crouching and stooping postures and return to standing


� Symmetry, range and discomfort with movements of the neck, shoulder, elbow and wrist

� Assessment of ability to push / pull a lawnmower over variable slopes on a sustained basis Other Considerations



� History of lower limb injuries that may affect balance / proprioception (e.g. severe ankle / knee sprains or surgery)


� Knowledge of required PPE to be worn during activity and it’s correct use (e.g. hearing protection, gloves, goggles to protect eyes from dust)

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Photograph: Maintenance of Grassed Areas Line 1: Example of using a whipper-snipper, an example of ‘Air Hog’ aerating implement used with a tractor, an example of a tractor. Line 2: Example of paint used to complete line markings, example of fuel drums moved using the tractor.

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Photograph: Maintenance of Grassed Areas Line 1: Example of grassed areas to be maintained, in different school environments

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Work Activity: Maintenance of Playground Areas

Description: The School Officer maintains playground areas within school grounds, including sandpits. This involves regular raking, sweeping, shovelling and topping up of impact material as well as lifting, carrying and pushing of impact material, generally with the assistance of a wheelbarrow. It may also involve daily visual inspection of playground areas and removal of hazards such as fallen trees or sharps. The School Officer may also be required to develop new playground areas. This may involve visual inspection and selection of appropriate area, lifting and carrying of structural materials such as hardwood sleepers as well as lifting, carrying and pushing of impact material, generally with the assistance of a wheelbarrow. Activity Frequency1: Rare – Frequent. Frequency may increase during development of new playground areas, following bad weather etc. (Activity frequency key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional = 35minutes-2.25 hrs; Frequent = 2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs;

Constant = 4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks). Environmental Context: Outdoors in school grounds. Outdoor school environments vary in layout, surfaces and terrain between different educational facilities. This task may also involve negotiation of significant slopes and surfaces such as dirt / mud / sand / and mulches. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: Yes. This activity is one of the major roles of the School Officer and as such it would be unreasonable to expect that these duties could be assumed by another staff member on a long-term basis.

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Physical Demands2: Maintenance of Playground Areas Standing: (dynamic) required in order to complete this task

Walking: may be required over varying terrains, slopes and grassed surfaces in order to complete this task

Lifting: bags of impact material or fertilizer (up to 40 kg with or without assistance), hardwood sleepers (up to 20 kg with or without assistance)

Carrying: bags of impact material or fertilizer (up to 40 kg with or without assistance), hardwood sleepers (up to 20 kg with or without assistance). Carrying may be required over variable distances and surfaces depending on the school

Pushing: a wheelbarrow in order to transport impact materials to playground area, during raking and shovelling activities. The push force required to complete this task will vary depending on the terrain of the area as well as make of wheelbarrow

Pulling: a wheelbarrow in order to transport impact materials to playground area, during shovelling and raking activities. The push force required to complete this task will vary depending on the terrain of the area as well as make of wheelbarrow Climbing: stairs may be required at times to access the playground area

Balancing: may be required depending on the specific playground area to be maintained

Stooping: may be required to access tasks / items placed at a low level

Kneeling: may be required to access tasks / items placed at a low level

Crouching: may be required on a sustained basis in order to access tasks / items placed at a low level

Handling: bags of impact material, wheelbarrow, shovel, rake


Talking: to other staff members in order to clarify specific tasks to be addressed, to students on occasion in order to ensure safety during the completion of the maintenance task



Use of controls: in order to operate certain tools (such as drills)

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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: Maintenance of Playground Areas



� Assessment of ability to lift and carry a 40 kg weight for a sustained period, without assistance




� Symmetry, range and discomfort with movements of the neck, shoulder, elbow and wrist Other Considerations





� Knowledge of required PPE to be worn during activity and it’s correct use

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Photograph: Maintenance of Playground Areas Line 1: Examples of playground areas to be maintained by the Janitor / Groundsmen Line 2: Example of hardwood sleepers to be lifted and carried by Janitor / Groundsmen

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Work Activity: General Maintenance Tasks

Description: The School Officer checks a ‘Maintenance Log Book’ and address any maintenance tasks that have been requested by school staff. These requests may also be made verbally to the School Officer. These may include a variety of minor maintenance tasks such as changing light bulbs, fixing window latches, wall-mounting pictures, unblocking toilets etc. Activity Frequency1: Occasional – frequent. Frequency may increase based on specific requirements of the school at that time. (Activity frequency key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional = 35minutes-2.25 hrs; Frequent = 2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs; Constant =

4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks).

Environmental Context: Environments may be indoors or outdoors depending on the requested maintenance task. This may involve negotiating varying environments, slopes, terrains and surfaces. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: Yes. It would not be practicable for another person to complete this duty on an ongoing basis.

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Physical Demands2: General Maintenance Tasks Standing: usually required in order to complete maintenance tasks

Walking: over varying terrains, slopes and surfaces in order to access maintenance tasks across varying school environments

Sitting: on the ground or a chair may be required in order to complete certain maintenance tasks

Lifting: various tools and loads of varying dimensions and weights, maximum weight of tool would be a step ladder weighing 10 kg. Heavier lifting may be required at times depending on the task required

Carrying: tools and loads of varying dimensions and weights (see above)

Pushing: loads and trolleys may be required at times. Push forces required will vary between tasks and environments

Pulling: loads and trolleys may be required at times. Pull forces required will vary between tasks and environments

Climbing: step ladders, fences etc may be required at times

Balancing: may be required depending on specific maintenance task

Stooping: may be required in order to access tasks / items placed at a low level

Kneeling: may be required in order to access tasks / items placed at a low level


Crawling: may be required occasionally in order to complete certain maintenance tasks at a low level

Reaching: overhead, in front and downwards in order to access maintenance tasks at various heights. This may be required on a sustained basis depending on the specific maintenance task

Handling: various tools such as hammers, spanners, ladders, drills etc in order to complete maintenance tasks

Feeling: tools etc in order to successfully complete tasks





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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: General Maintenance Tasks




� Assessment of lifting from below knee level to overhead height (up to 20kg) including awkward loads such as step ladders








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Photograph: General Maintenance Tasks Line 1: Example of general maintenance tasks, example of typical hand held tools used to complete general maintenance tasks

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Work Activity: Long-Term Maintenance Tasks

Description: At times the School Officer is required to participate in long-term maintenance projects such as painting a building or room, or making structural modifications to handrails. The demands of this role may vary considerably depending on the specific requirements of the task at hand and/or the trade background of the individual School Officer. For example within some Special Schools the School Officer may be required to make modifications to wheelchairs, bicycles and harnesses. Activity Frequency1: Rare – frequent. Frequency may increase based on specific requirements of the school at that time. (Activity

frequency key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional = 35minutes-2.25 hrs; Frequent = 2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs; Constant = 4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks). Environmental Context: Environments may be indoors or outdoors depending on the requested long-term maintenance task. This may involve negotiating varying environments, slopes, terrains and surfaces. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: No. Many long-term maintenance tasks may be able to be completed by tradespersons or contractors (e.g. Q-Build, painters etc).

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Physical Demands2: Long-Term Maintenance Tasks Standing: usually required in order to complete maintenance tasks

Walking: over varying terrains, slopes and surfaces in order to access maintenance tasks across varying school environments

Sitting: on the ground or a chair may be required in order to complete certain maintenance tasks

Lifting: tools and loads of varying dimensions and weights. Average maximum weight of tools would be a step ladder weighing 10 kg. Heavier lifting may be required at times depending on the task required

Carrying: tools and loads of varying dimensions and weights (see above)

Pushing: loads and trolleys may be required at times

Pulling: loads and trolleys may be required at times

Climbing: step ladders, fences etc may be required at times

Balancing: may be required depending on specific maintenance tasks

Stooping: may be required in order to access tasks / items placed at a low level

Kneeling: may be required in order to access tasks / items placed at a low level


Crawling: may be required occasionally in order to complete certain maintenance tasks at a low level

Reaching: overhead, in front and downwards in order to access maintenance tasks at various heights. This may be required on a sustained basis depending on the specific maintenance task

Handling: various tools such as hammers, spanners, ladders, drills etc in order to complete maintenance tasks

Feeling: tools etc in order to successfully complete tasks





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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: Long-Term Maintenance Tasks




� Assessment of lifting from below knee level to overhead height (up to 20kg) including awkward loads such as step ladders






� Trade background/ qualifications



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Photograph: Long-Term Maintenance Tasks Line 1: Example of a long term maintenance task- modifying bicycles

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Work Activity: Moving Furniture / Heavy Items Between Locations Within the School

Description: The School Officer is required to assist other staff members to move items of furniture and classroom supplies between different locations within the school. This may be done by manual lifting and carrying, or through the use of equipment such as a wheeled trolley. When moving equipment, the School Officer may be required to engrave or mark the equipment with school details for recording, auditing and security purposes. This may be done with a hand held engraving machine, sticker or permanent marker. At times, the School Officer is required to locate equipment around the school using asset records and markings, to maintain accurate records of school equipment and to assist with purchasing of new equipment. This may be done by walking to classrooms or storage areas within the school, locating the equipment and lifting, carrying and/or handling equipment to check details. Activity Frequency1: Rare - occasional. This frequency may increase when large-scale moves between classrooms or classroom blocks is in progress. (Activity frequency key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional = 35minutes-2.25 hrs; Frequent

= 2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs; Constant = 4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks). Environmental Context: Environments may be indoors or outdoors depending on the request. This may involve negotiating varying environments, slopes, terrains and surfaces. In general, paths and paved surfaces are used when transporting items between locations, although at times it may be necessary to negotiate stairs or variable outdoor surfaces in order to complete this task. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: Yes. This task is generally accepted as a part of the School Officer’s role and as such it would be unreasonable to expect other staff members to perform this role on an ongoing basis. The frequency of this task could be reduced by other staff assisting with such duties as bringing reams of copying paper to the photocopying room. For larger scale moves, it is possible for the school to hire external removalists to complete this task.

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Physical Demands2: Moving Furniture / Heavy Items Between Locations Within the School Standing: (dynamic) required in order to complete this task

Walking: may be required over varying terrains, slopes and surfaces in order to access different areas of the school in order to complete this task. Most often, this task will be completed within an indoor classroom environment or over flat non-slip surfaces such as paths or balconies

Lifting: items of furniture and loads of varying dimensions and weights. Average maximum weight was reported as 30 kg. Heavier lifting may be required at times depending on the task required, but this may sometimes be done with the assistance of another staff member or staff members

Carrying: loads of varying dimensions and weights (see above), over variable distances and surfaces (depending on the school environment and the task requirements). For heavier tasks or tasks spanning significant distances, a trolley may be used to eliminate the requirement for carrying

Pushing: items loaded onto wheeled trolleys. Push force required will depend on the weight of the load and on the surface over which the trolley is being pushed

Pulling: items loaded onto wheeled trolleys. Pull force required will depend on the weight of the load and on the surface over which the trolley is being pulled

Climbing: stairs whilst carrying items of furniture. This may not be required in all school environments.

Stooping: may be required in order to lift / replace items of furniture placed at a low level

Crouching: may be required in order to lift / replace items of furniture placed at a low level

Reaching: overhead, in front and downwards in order to access items positioned at various heights

Handling: items of varying weights and dimensions, depending on the specific task to be completed. This may include such items as desks, chairs, bookshelves, easels etc. Reported estimated maximum weight for such items was 30 kg

Feeling: items to be relocated in order to successfully and safely complete tasks

Talking: to other staff members in order to co-ordinate assisted lifting etc to ensure safety during the completion of this task




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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: Moving Furniture / Heavy Items Between Locations Within the School

� Assessment of dynamic standing capacity

� Assessment of ability to negotiate varying terrains and surfaces when walking and carrying items weighing up to 30 kg


� Assessment of lifting from below knee level to overhead height (up to 30kg) including awkward loads

� Assessment of ability to adopt crouching and stooping postures and return to standing




� History of lower back pain or lower limb pain with sustained or dynamic standing / walking



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Photograph: Moving Furniture / Heavy Items Between Locations Within the School Line 1: Example of moving furniture, example of lifting equipment that may be used to assist with relocating heavier items or relocating items over larger distances

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Work Activity: Swimming Pool Maintenance

Description: In the warmer months of the year, the Janitor/Groundsman is responsible for maintaining the school swimming pool. This involves pouring the required amounts of acid, chlorine and other chemicals into the swimming pool or pool auto unit and visual monitoring of chemical levels in the pool water up to 3 times per day. Other tasks include vacuuming the swimming pool, changing the swimming pool filter and topping up the swimming pool water levels. In some school environments the School Officer is responsible for general monitoring of pool cleanliness, although a contractor is responsible for the actual cleaning of the swimming pool. This duty is not required during the cooler months of the year when the swimming pool is not in use. It should be noted that not all educational facilities have a swimming pool and therefore this duty may not be required in all cases. Activity Frequency1: Rare – frequent. Frequencies may increase depending on time of year and level of pool use etc. (Activity frequency

key based on a day of eight hours duration with 60 minutes of breaks: Rare = 0-31 minutes; Occasional = 35minutes-2.25 hrs; Frequent = 2.5 hrs-4.8 hrs; Constant = 4.9 hrs-7.3 hrs (times are exclusive of scheduled breaks). Environmental Context: In most schools the swimming pool area is outdoors, however in a small number of cases the swimming pool is indoors. The surrounding surfaces are generally flat and are non-slip. When the area surrounding the swimming pool is wet, there can be increased slipperiness of these surfaces. Critical Demand of this Position? 3: Yes (for those schools with a swimming pool). This duty is a major part of the School Officer’s duties, and it would not be feasible for another staff member to assume this responsibility for a long-term period. Chemicals Used?: Yes. Chemicals used vary slightly between schools but may include chlorine, salt, cyanuric acid, aluminium sulphate, bicarbonate soda, dense soda ash and calcium hypochlorite.

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Physical Demands2: Swimming Pool Maintenance Standing: (dynamic) required in order to complete this task

Walking: variable distances may be required to access the swimming pool area. If wet, the surface surrounding the swimming pool may at times be slippery

Lifting: bottles and bags of chemicals (up to 25 kg); swimming pool filter when it needs to be changed, swimming pool vacuum and hose (approximately 6 kg)

Carrying: bottles and bags of chemicals (up to 25 kg) short distances (5-50 m)

Pushing: swimming pool vacuum in order to clean pool. Push force required is approximately 30 Newton’s of Force

Pulling: swimming pool vacuum in order to clean pool. Push force required is approximately 30 Newton’s of Force

Stooping: may be required in order to change the swimming pool filter or to lift / replace items from ground level

Crouching: may be required in order to change the swimming pool filter or to lift / replace items from ground level

Balancing: may be required in order to safely and successfully complete tasks

Kneeling: may be required in order to open the pool filter or to lift / replace items from ground level

Reaching: out in front and down to ground level in order to complete tasks

Handling: bottles and bags of chemicals, swimming pool filter



Use of controls: in order to operate equipment such as swimming pool auto unit (to maintain appropriate chemical levels in swimming pool water)

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Considerations for Assessment of Physical Job Fitness: Swimming Pool Maintenance

� Assessment of ability to lift and carry a 25 kg weight over a short distance (maximum 50 m)

� Assessment of lifting below knee level to shoulder height (up to 25 kg) including awkward loads

� Assessment of ability to adopt sustained stooping, crouching and kneeling postures and to return to an upright position

� Assessment of grip strength within norms for age and gender


� Symmetry, range and discomfort with movements of the neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, back, and lower limbs Other Considerations


� History of lower back pain or lower limb pain with stooping or lifting




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Photograph: Swimming Pool Maintenance Line 1: Examples of swimming pool environments Line 2: Examples of swimming pool environments and swimming pool maintenance tasks

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Photograph – Swimming Pool Maintenance Line 1: Examples of equipment commonly used for swimming pool maintenance Line 2: Examples of chemicals commonly used for swimming pool maintenance

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