OHS representatives and OHS committees have been replaced by Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) and Health and Safety Committees (HSCs) under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. New arrangements have been put in place to allow for HSRs to receive approved training.
The role of an HSR includes additional powers and functions compared to an OHS representative, including the ability to issue a provisional improvement notice (PIN) and to direct that unsafe work practices cease. To exercise these powers an approved WorkCover NSW gap training course has been developed. Completion of the former four-day WorkCover course in OHS Consultation will be a pre-requisite for any HSR wishing to undertake the gap training course.
In addition to the development of a gap training course, a five-day initial HSR training course will also be available for newly elected HSRs who have not previously completed the current four-day WorkCover course in OHS Consultation.
Training providers who wish to apply to deliver HSR training in NSW must first read the Approval Conditions and ensure that they have sufficient resources to undertake the administrative activities necessary to comply.
New providers seeking approval to deliver HSR gap and initial training should complete the “How to Become an Approved Provider Application”.
Formerly approved OHS Consultation trainers and Registered Training Organisations should contact Third Party Management on 1800 855 969 or email thirdparty@workcover.nsw.gov.au for information.
Call 13 10 50 for more information about Work Health and Safety consultation training.