‘State of knowledge’ is all the information you should reasonably know about managing your business’s risks.

This includes information from:

• EPA

• your business
• industry
• government.

EPA provides clear and accessible industry guidance. This helps businesses manage their environmental risks. 

Understanding state of knowledge

‘State of knowledge’ includes an understanding of the:  

• risks your business may pose to human health and the environment 
• steps you should take to eliminate or reduce those risks. 

The state of knowledge changes over time. This is because ways of working develop, and new risks emerge.

Knowledge sources from business and industry

• Documents showing how to perform activities safely
• Manuals
• Safety data, instructions and labels
• Training on equipment use
• Contracts between parties
• Guidance from industry bodies

Knowledge sources from regulators and government

• EPA guidance. Find guidance for your industry 
• Government authorities like Sustainability Victoria and WorkSafe 
• Guidance material 
• Technical notes 
• Outcomes from decisions EPA has made to enforce the law
• Specific advice for your business

Knowledge sources from independent organisations

• Independent organisations like Standards Australia
• Universities
• Environmental engineers

Read next

Find guidance for your industry 

Learn how to manage your environmental risk

Learn how to comply with the GED (publication 1741)

Learn how to assess and control your risks (publication 1695)

Use the self-assessment tool for small business

Find out how to engage a consultant (publication 1702)