Calling for nominees is an important part of electing a health and safety representative (HSR) in the workplace. All workers can nominate including volunteers.
Once the work groups and number of HSRs required has been agreed between the PCBU and workers, notices calling for nominations should be prominently displayed with a reasonable closing date. They should also be in a form that all workers can understand.
Where the number of nominations equals the number of vacant HSR and deputy HSR positions, an election is not required and each candidate is taken to have been elected.
If there are more nominees than positions available then an election will need to be held.
The workers may determine how an election must be conducted (eg by secret ballot or show of hands) however, it must comply with procedures in the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011.
If a majority of workers in a work group agree, the election may be conducted with the help of a union, other person or organisation.
Call 13 10 50 for more information about nominating health and safety representatives.