Frequently Asked Questions - Health and Safety Representative (HSR) Training

How do I find a HSR training course?

See training courses accredited under the OHS Act 1999 for a list of HSR training course providers.

Does the HSRs training have to take place within a specific time period?

HSRs should be trained as soon as practicable after their election/selection so that they have the appropriate skills and knowledge to effectively perform their role. Factors that should be taken into account when considering how soon after being elected/selected HSRs attend training include:

• availability of the accredited courses

• relevance of the course to the designated work group and the
organisation hazard profile

• operational requirements and the availability of replacement staff

• previous feedback received from attendees of the course

• whether there are any travel requirements for HSRs to attend the course.

Employers should aim for the time period between the employer becoming aware of the election/selection of the HSR, and the attendance of the HSR at accredited training, to be a maximum of three months. Specific arrangements may be included in the organisation’s HSMAs.

For further information access the Commission's Training for Health and Safety Representatives - Guidance for Employers.

How do I become an HSR training provider?

HSR training courses for HSRs in the Commonwealth jurisdiction must be accredited by the Commission under section 27 of the OHS Act. This includes bridging courses for HSRs of joining non-Commonwealth licencees. The Commission considers courses submitted for accreditation twice a year.

The Guidelines for Accreditation of Occupational Health and Safety Training for Health and Safety Representatives Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991 [126 kb] provide information on the accreditation timeframes, process and requirements. Training providers intending to submit a course for accreditation by the Commission should ensure that they meet all of the accreditation requirements provided in these guidelines.

For any further queries, please contact the HSR training co-ordinator on 1300 366 979.

Note: where there is a reference to the 'OHS Act', it refers to the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1991.

Page last updated:April 28, 2008