HSR Initial OHS Training Course
Health and Safety Representative Training (HSR) Initial OHS Training Course
- Face-to-Face, Blended, Onsite training available for groups
HSR Initial OHS Training Course
Course Dates
HSR Initial OHS Training Course overview
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
The Learning Objectives of the initial course are:
- Interpreting the occupational health and safety legislative framework and its relationship to the HSR
- Identifying key parties and their legislative obligations and duties
- Establishing representation in the workplace
- Participating in consultation and issue resolution
- Representing designated work group members in any OHS risk management process undertaken by the appropriate duty holders
- Issuing a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) and directing the cessation of work
For more information please visit: Health and safety representative training | WorkSafe Victoria
Is this course for me?
Although HSRs are the primary audience, manager, supervisors, health and safety committee members and anyone with an interest in health and safety may also benefit from attending this course.
What is the duration of training?
7 hours (excluding breaks) per day conducted over 5 days – 35 hours in total
Where is the training delivered?
This course is delivered face to face by experienced trainers with relevant industry experience.
What are the entry conditions?
There are no formal pre-requisites for this course, but basic literacy and numeracy skills are required.
Certification/Training Record
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of attendance.
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
What happens if an employer disagrees with a course?
The HSR should select a course and give the employer the opportunity to present views about the suitability of the proposed course.
If agreement cannot be reached about a course, or if an employer refuses to allow an HSR to attend an initial or refresher course, the HSR may ask WorkSafe to decide which course they can attend. When requesting a determination, initial contact is to be made through WorkSafe’s Advisory Service on 1800 136 089.
WorkSafe would first seek an agreement between the employer and HSR about which course they would attend.
If this can’t be agreed, WorkSafe will determine which course the HSR can attend. WorkSafe determinations are made in writing and must be made at least 14 days before the course starts.
It is an offence under the OHS Act for an employer to refuse, without a reasonable excuse, to allow an HSR to attend a course determined by WorkSafe and penalties may apply.
Pay for an elected HSR when training
Attendance at approved Initial and Refresher HSR training is a work activity. An HSR must receive their normal earnings while attending HSR training. This includes pay entitlements for:
- shift work
- regular overtime
- higher duties
- allowances
- penalty rates
In addition, the time an HSR spends at a course, including outside normal work hours, is considered time at work.
The employer must pay for the training course and any associated costs of the HSRs attendance. This may include:
- travel to and from the approved course
- accommodation, meals and incidental expenses
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.
What are the payment options?
Payment can be made with our flexible payment options:
- Payments can be made via credit card via our Online Enrolment portal
- For corporate bookings, invoicing options are available upon request
Have some questions?
If you have any questions related to the HSR Initial OHS Training Course please contact us here
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