HSR Initial OHS Training Course

Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) have a vital role in workplace OHS. To exercise powers and rights as an HSR effectively, it is important that HSRs (and if applicable), any deputy HSR (DHSR) receive training. This WorkSafe-approved course will provide HSRs with the skills, knowledge and confidence to represent the members of their designated work group.

HSR training is not intended to train HSRs to be health and safety professionals or to fulfil an employer's obligations in relation to OHS.

Although the course is designed for HSRs, it would also benefit managers, supervisors, health and safety committee members and anyone with an interest in health and safety.

Under the OHS Act 2004 (section 67) all elected HSRs and deputy HSRs are entitled to undertake WorkSafe Victoria approved OHS training for HSRs and choose their training course in consultation with their employer. RMIT is approved to deliver the HSR Initial OHS Training Course.

Under section 67 of the Victorian OHS Act 2004 an employer, if requested, must allow an elected HSR and elected Deputy HSR to attend a WorkSafe approved HSR Initial OHS Training Course on paid time, pay the cost of the course and any other associated costs. Section 67 also allows HSRs to choose the approved training course they attend in consultation with their employer.

Course content

• Interpreting the OHS legislative framework and its relationships to the HSR,
• Identifying key parties, their legislative obligations and duties,
• Establishing representation in the workplace,
• Participating in consultation and issue resolution,
• Representing the designated work group members in any OHS risk management process undertaken by the appropriate duty holder/s,
• Issuing a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) and directing the cessation of work.

Please note: It is a WorkSafe condition of enrolment that the registration form must be completed by the participant undertaking the course. Employer representatives should not complete this form on an employee's behalf.

To join the waitlist for 2025 classes, please contact ve.partnerships@rmit.edu.au

Prerequisites

No prior knowledge or experience is necessary for this introductory course.

Materials supplied

All relevant course notes are supplied with comprehensive instructions and exercises. You will receive a course manual and an official hard copy of the OHS Act 2004.

Materials to bring

Pen, paper and/or laptop for note taking.

Suited to

This practical course is designed for HSRs and deputy HSRs. Managers, Supervisors, Health and safety committee members and other people involved with health and safety in the workplace may also benefit from attending.

Additional notes

All trainers have a solid, detailed understanding of the Victorian OHS Act (2004), in particular all sections relevant to the purpose of HSRs and their powers, protections and entitlements.

Students can bring their own lunch or purchase from the local restaurants.

Students must attend all five days of the course. If you miss one or more days, you will need to make these up within six months of the course start date.

If you require special support or assistance for this course, please email the VE Partnerships team: ve.partnerships@rmit.edu.au.

At the end of the course, participants should:

• understand and effectively exercise their HSR power,

• gain knowledge of protections and entitlements under the OHS Act 2004,

• gain confidence, skill and knowledge to represent their designated work group.