HSR Initial Training Course

This course is designed for elected Health & Safety Representatives (HSRs) and elected Deputy HSRs within the state jurisdiction of Victoria and provides a practical focus on the role of the HSR with an emphasis on achieving positive outcomes in the workplace through consultation and issues resolution processes.

Learning Objectives:

• Interpret the occupational health and safety legislative framework and its relationship to the HSR
• Identify key parties and their legislative obligations and duties
• Establish representation in the workplace
• Participate in consultation and issue resolution
• Represent designated work group members in any OHS risk management process undertaken by the appropriate duty holder
• Issue a provisional improvement notice (PIN) and direct the cessation of work

Training for Elected HSRs

Under Section 67 of the OHS Act, if requested an employer must allow an HSR or DHSR time off work, with pay, to attend:

• One HSR initial OHS training course after being elected
• One HSR refresher OHS training course in each subsequent year that they hold office

For example, if an HSR completes the initial course on 23 March 2021, they can do refresher training once between 23 March 2021 and 22 March 2022 and once again during 22 March 2022 and 22 March 2023 and so on.

This obligation applies if the HSR provides notice of 14 days or more before the course starts.

The course must be:

• Approved or conducted by WorkSafe
• Relevant to the HSR’s role or the work of the DWG
• Selected by the HSR in consultation with the employer

Other Training Entitlements for HSRs

Under section 69 of the OHS Act, an employer must allow an HSR time off with pay to attend other WorkSafe approved OHS training courses. The HSR must provide notice of 14 days or more before the course starts.

For section 69 courses the employer doesn’t have to, but may choose to, pay for the course and any associated expenses.

Under this section of the OHS Act, deputy HSRs are not entitled to this training (unless they are acting in the role of the HSR at the time of training). An employer can, however, make this training available to deputy HSRs.

For more information please visit: Health and safety representative training | WorkSafe Victoria