Duty in relation to clients, customers and visitors at the workplace

Duty in relation to clients, customers and visitors at the
workplace

Responding to a hazard or risks at the workplace caused by alcohol and/or other drugs may
include situations where clients, customers or visitors enter the workplace or staff are visiting
clients at other venues.
Should these situations occur, the employer must, as far as practicable, respond by minimising
the risks of people creating hazards to staff. If such occurrences are likely, it is advisable to have
workplace procedures in place that outline how to deal with these situations. If the nature of the
workplace presents special risks to workers, for example if they regularly work alone, it may be
advisable to have in place extra safety precautions such as distress alarms.


Where visitors' conduct or presence is hazardous at the workplace, 'authorised people' may
direct visitors to leave immediately. 'Authorised people' are employers and people who have the
management and control of a workplace. Where this is likely to occur, workplace procedures
should address the situation and caution should be exercised in case the directions increase the
hazard and risks.