Health and safety representatives (HSRs) can exercise powers if they believe there is, or has been, a contravention of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act).
The additional powers an HSR can exercise if they have completed approved HSR training are:
1. Issue a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN)
HSRs can issue a PIN:
- if they reasonably believe there is, or has been, a breach of the WHS Act
- to prevent a likely contravention of the WHS Act from occurring
- to remedy the cause of the risk or hazard.
They must first consult with the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU - the new term that includes employers) responsible for resolving the WHS matter before a PIN can be issued.
2. Direct unsafe work to stop
An HSR can direct members of their work group to stop work if there is an immediate health and safety risk to those workers.
HSRs are required to first consult with the PCBU (includes employers). If however, the risk is immediate, the HSR can direct the unsafe work to stop and then consult with the PCBU as soon as possible.
Call 13 10 50 for more information about the powers of a health and safety representative.