WorkSafe approved HSR refresher Gendered Violence course provides an opportunity for HSRs and Deputy HSRs to revisit aspects of the HSR Initial OHS Training Course and refresh their knowledge of OHS in the workplace.
Under the OHS Act 2004 (section 67), all elected HSRs and deputy HSRs, after completing an initial course of training, have an entitlement for each year they hold office to attend a WorkSafe-approved HSR refresher OHS training course.
An employer, if requested, must allow the HSR/Deputy HSR to attend on paid time, pay the cost of the course and any other associated costs. Section 67 also allows HSRs to choose the course, in consultation with their employer.
This WorkSafe-approved training course will help HSRs and Deputy HSRs to understand and exercise their powers effectively. The training will provide HSRs and DHSRs with the confidence, skills and knowledge to represent their co-workers when raising health and safety concerns in relation to work-related gendered violence and to understand the health and safety issues arising from incidents of work-related gendered violence.
Course Content
The value of HSRs
Consultation in the workplace
Element of the legislative framework
Risk management overview.
Duty of care
Issue resolution.
The role of inspectors
Safety compliance
Who should attend?
Health & Safety Representatives and Deputy Health and Safety Representatives. Although HSRs are the primary audience; managers, supervisors, health and safety committee members and anyone else with an interest in health and safety may also benefit from attending this course.
Delivery
Course hours: 9am – 5pm Course length: 1 day
We can come to your workplace and deliver this course or you can visit out in house facilities.
Our Difference
Systec are leaders in OHS compliance working in the industry for over 25 years. Our courses provide relevant information, ongoing support, and efficient delivery.
Our professional trainers have experience in and out of the classroom providing the best experience for our students and empowering them to create safer workplaces.
Having worked on multiple projects where telehandlers are utilised for different tasks, i find it integral that competency based training is important, but mostly these machines are dangerous and do require a set of skills to be successfully operated.
Non-slewing telehandlers that are integral in agriculture, construction, and warehousing, demand specialized skills to operate safely. The high-risk nature of these machines has highlighted the need for tailored training to ensure the safety of operators and those in proximity are aware.
Current mobile crane license training addresses key aspects of non-slewing telehandler operation, particularly in handling suspended loads with attachments like hooks and jibs.
A new Worksafe Victoria High Risk Work License (HRWL) initiative focuses on non-slewing telehandlers with a capacity over 3 tonnes and various attachments. This ensures targeted training and certification for operators handling these powerful machines.
The specialised license covers comprehensive training on challenges specific to non-slewing telehandlers, enhancing safety standards and reducing the risk of accidents in operations exceeding 3 tonnes.
For machines with a capacity of 3 tonnes or less, training is still essential, emphasizing competency without the need for a specialized HRWL license.
The introduction of a targeted license for non-slewing telehandlers demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that employers have a duty to check that control is enforced at their workplace.
WorkSafe Introduces the New License scheme for telehandlers from the 1st July 2024,
People have some options when looking at getting or maintaining the license:
Complete specific training for non-slewing telehandlers at an authorised Registered Training Organisation (RTO), such as TAFE.
Pass the assessment.
Apply for the non-slewing telehandler specific licence.
Renew the licence every 5 years.
To understand a bit more about your safety compliance status for your business, get in touch today with our experienced safety consultants for a free consultation through the WorkSafe Victoria OHS Essentials Program.
Recently, I’ve been thinking about the potential health risks posed by contamination during our daily activities. It’s alarming how often people unknowingly encounter substances that could lead to both short and long-term health issues.
My awareness of contamination issues dates back about six years when I was involved in a project at a manufacturing site undergoing closure. The remediation process revealed hydrocarbon-contaminated soil from fuel and oil used in manufacturing, along with historical asbestos storage due to a lack of safe disposal methods.
During the West Gate Tunnel project, polyfluoroalkyl substances were encountered during excavation, prompting concerns about the handling of contaminated soil and the impact of communities where the material would be stored long term.
Also, how my family and friends are conducting gardening activities unknowingly exposing themselves to the potential deadly Legionnaire’s disease while working with potting mix purchased from the local hardware store of gardening supply shop, right after a 73-year-old Melbourne man passed away after conducting gardening activities.
Fast forward to a year ago, I’m now working on a construction project utilizing upcycled crushed concrete for fill. This raised the question of the concrete’s origin, leading to an investigation into the supplier’s practices. It turns out the crushed concrete comes from various projects, including demolition sites.
After looking into the source of the material my findings were adequate, but in saying this, I had to make sure.
Fortunately, the company responsible for processing the concrete diligently tracks all incoming materials, conducted required testing to ensure acceptable, and holds the necessary permits and certifications for upcycling activities. This was a relief to the project management team who was relying on the product to make the job easier and avoid a potential cost blowout.
The lesson here is to be cautious when ordering materials. It’s crucial to inquire about the source and the certification of the supplier to avoid potential health and project management issues, such as cost overruns and contamination.
Systec offers a range of environmental services, if you have any questions about contamination or asbestos containing materials on your site.
New Welding Fumes Exposure Standard Released – Liam Cooper – OHS Consultant
Safework Australia has just released the new welding fumes exposure standard, and it got me thinking about working away over the holiday break on engineering projects where welding was the main activity. I found myself thinking about the journey to get to where I am now and the understanding of the nature of work undertaken by everyday workers in engineering trades.
I work alongside workers of all ages, from apprentices to seasoned veterans who have worked worldwide. They all had one thing in common: no matter the skill level or age, they were all great at one thing. Welding.
So, my focus during that time with these workers was on the subject, the materials used and the long-term effects of spending much time around welding fumes. After digging around on the internet, I didn’t find much until I found some information about new exposure standards for persons conducting welding operations in my email.
Individuals who work with welding should be aware of the potential health effects of exposure to welding fumes. These effects can range from short-term issues like eye and respiratory irritation to more severe conditions such as asthma, metal fume fever, nervous system damage, and an increased risk of lung and kidney cancer.
Tragically, since 2019, three workers in Victoria have lost their lives due to illnesses caused by welding fume exposure.
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, employers are responsible for managing the risk posed by hazardous substances, including welding fumes. It is crucial to ensure that workers and others in the workplace are not exposed to levels exceeding any relevant exposure standard.
As of today, there are significant changes in the workplace exposure standard for welding fumes (not otherwise classified). The standard is now set at 1 mg/m3 as an eight-hour time-weighted average, a considerable reduction from the previous 5 mg/m3.
This exposure standard represents the maximum airborne concentration of a substance or mixture that individuals should not surpass to avoid adverse health effects. Depending on the welding processes and components, the fumes may contain specific substances with their exposure standards, which could be lower than the general 1 mg/m3 standard.
To protect individuals from welding fume exposure, it is advisable to prioritize eliminating, substituting, or modifying the welding process. Ventilation controls, such as on-torch extraction or local exhaust ventilation, should be implemented next. Respiratory protection is recommended if exposure is still expected to surpass the exposure standard.
If there’s uncertainty about whether a relevant exposure standard is being exceeded or if there’s a potential health risk, atmospheric monitoring should be conducted. Additionally, health monitoring may be necessary if workers are exposed to specific substances specified by the OHS Regulations that are likely to cause harm.
It’s important to note that Safe Work Australia officially published the adjustment of workplace exposure.
Suppose you conduct welding activities in your workplace and need someone to review your compliance activities. Get in touch with a consultant today. We offer a free service for businesses that have employee numbers under 60.
Australian Engineered Ban – So what is next for the industry?
The Australian Engineered Stone Ban: The impact on rules around materials and regulatory requirements resulting from an Australian Engineered Stone Ban will likely involve changes and adjustments in the construction and design industry. Some of the potential effects of new introduced rules and regulations on Engineered stone suppliers and installers are not avoidable.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards: we know the ban will come into effect on July 1st. Consequently, there could be stricter occupational health and safety standards in place for working with certain materials.
At Systec we do understand the frustration of staged regulatory changes that engineered stone suppliers and installers have undergone, as WorkSafe Victoria implemented an engineered stone licensing scheme which forced engineered stone suppliers to undergo massive compliance changes to their occupational health and safety management systems and safety measures which was a costly venture for some larger companies and completely decimated small operators. Although no cost should not be argued when you are talking about the safety of the workers that are exposed or have lost their lives at a later stage of life.
Material Specifications: New specifications for alternative materials might be introduced to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. But we have to ask the question? will be tighter restrictions at the source, which are the producers who are importing these products.
Certification and Testing: Authorities may implement or revise certification processes for materials, especially alternatives to engineered stone.
Inspections and Compliance Checks that include building inspections and compliance checks could become more stringent, with a focus on verifying that construction projects adhere to the new material regulations.
Training and Education: Workforce training programs might be established or expanded to educate construction professionals about the risks associated with certain materials and to ensure they are familiar with the proper handling of alternatives.
Environmental Impact Assessment: Regulatory bodies may also consider the environmental impact of alternative materials.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Governments and industry associations have launched public awareness campaigns to inform builders, designers, and the general public about the reasons behind the ban.
Will the Australian Engineered Stone Ban become a catalyst for black market materials?
Australia faces a concerning issue of occupational violence.
Occupational violence in health services is an increasing issue that endangers the safety of community health workers who provide crucial healthcare services. Factors such as high emotional stress, limited resources, and a vulnerable work environment contribute to this problem.
As an Employer, you must provide and maintain a safe working environment that is free of risks to health. You also have a duty ensure that workplace activities don’t endanger other people, such as visitors, clients and the public.
Preventing and managing violence and aggression is part of those duties.
To tackle this issue, the following strategies can be implemented:
Training Programs
Mandatory training in conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and self-defense equips healthcare professionals to handle confrontational situations safely.
Security Measures
Installing surveillance cameras, panic buttons, and access control systems enhances the safety of community health centers. Employing security personnel and collaborating with law enforcement agencies adds an extra layer of protection.
Reporting Systems
Establishing efficient reporting systems encourages prompt reporting of incidents, leading to necessary support and accountability. Open dialogue and confidentiality build trust.
Community Engagement
Engagement with the local community and raising awareness about occupational violence promotes respect towards healthcare workers and helps prevent violent incidents.
Policy Development
Comprehensive policies developed and enforced by the government and regulatory bodies outline guidelines for prevention, response, and support mechanisms.
By implementing training programs, security measures, reporting systems, community engagement, and robust policies, we can create a safer environment for healthcare professionals. Prioritizing their well-being ensures optimal care delivery and promotes respect within the sector. Together, we can combat occupational violence and foster a culture of safety and support.
On the 17th February, Worksafe Victoria released a statement regarding the new psychological regulations as an addition to the current classes of hazards outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017, which will provide clearer guidance to employers on their obligations to ensure workers are not suffering from mental health injury in the workplace.
The new regulations will:
Highlight importance of psychological health and safety in workplaces.
Outline employer obligations in regards psychosocial hazards.
Require employers to create a written prevention plan to address pyschosocial issues and hazards.
Require certain employers to periodically report data on bullying, sexual harassment and aggression and violence.
An outcome of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System found that the need to improve awareness and education around psychological health and safety.
The regulations are expected to be introduced into legislation later on in the year.
If you are in need of addressing pychosocial issues in your workplace, Please make anenquiry.
Managing safety in small business is often overlooked as small business’s are unaware of the impacts that non-compliance can have.
Safety Management systems are not just for large companies, they are for all sizes and industry sectors.
OHS management systems are a sure way to help your organization manage health and safety risks and reap the benefits by expanding your business into the next stage of growth.
Some of the benefits you will experience include:
Improved success rate when tendering for projects with highly regulated industries and Government agencies
Lower risk exposure
Reducing costs from accidents and incidents
Improved Safety conditions for your employees and the public
Improved public relations and image
Easier financial access
Lower staff compensation claims that increase your insurance premiums
Brand confidence
Increased value of business re-sale
Decrease in return to work management activities
Reduce costs of hiring staff to fill your injured workers positions
Increased moral of staff
Increased productivity
and more
Introducing a health and safety management system is a proactive step to developing your business and stepping into new territories of business expansion while keeping your employees happy and safe.
For more information on OHS Management Systems click the link below.
WORKSAFE VICTORIA’S NEW INFRINGEMENT NOTICE SCHEME
The infringement notice scheme will act as an additional deterrent and help keep Victorian employees safe.
The obligations of employers and other duty holders under OHS laws don’t change. Employers still have a duty to provide and maintain a working environment that’s safe and without risks to health so far as is reasonably practicable.
From 31 July 2021, WorkSafe inspectors can issue infringement notices with penalties of up to 10 penalty units, or $1817.40, attached.
If you are concerned about your business being open to infringements
SysTec in conjunction with the Worksafe Victoria OHS Essentials Program offers businesses with 60 employees or less, sole traders with contractors a free independent service to help you keep your employees safe at work
The OHS Essentials Program is
CONFIDENTAIL – Systec OHS Consultants are not employed by WorkSafe, all recommendations are kept confidential
INDEPENDENT – Practical. tailored Safety advice from Systec Consultants
For more information on the WorkSafe OHS Essentials program please get in contact with us or send us an enquiry
Health and Safety Representative Initial WHS Training Course (5 Days)
Participant profile: Suitable for individuals or groups. Each participant must have their own computer or laptop.
Duration: 5 days, 7 hours participation time per day, 1 hour total break time.
Course Outline
This course is designed to develop the skills and knowledge an HSR needs to represent their workgroup. It provides HSRs with information on their role, and entitlements and protections, and information on WHS legislation needed to promote a safe work culture in their workplace.
Under the WHS Act (2011), HSRs are entitled to attend an initial training course.
The Act requires employers to cover the cost of the course and allow HSRs paid time off to attend.
Our Difference
SysTec are leaders in WHS and OHS compliance, working in the industry for over 25 years. Our courses provide relevant information, ongoing support, and efficient delivery.
Our professional trainers have experience in and out of the classroom providing the best experience for our students and empowering them to create safer workplaces.
Now you can learn from the comfort of your home or workplace with the support of our trainers. Our high-tech video conferencing system allows you to join live, interactive, instructor lead presentations, ask questions in real time, complete activities, and collaborate with your classmates in digital breakout rooms.
Learning Objectives:
Understanding key WHS terminology
Interpreting the WHS legislative framework and its relationship to the HSR
Participating in consultation and issue resolution
Establishing representation in the workplace
Issuing Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) and directing cessation of work
Understanding the role of SafeWork and its relationship to the HSR
Identifying key parties and their legislative obligations and duties
Who Should Attend:
Health & Safety Representatives and Deputy Health and Safety Representatives.
Although HSRs are the primary audience, managers, supervisors, health and safety committee members, and anyone else with an interest in health and safety may also benefit from attending this course. If WHS training has not been undertaken in over 2 years, this course may be a good opportunity to update your WHS skills. (note: HSRs have only one entitlement for initial training however the absence of an entitlement does not prevent an employer who recognises the benefits of HSRs receiving training from allowing them to attend additional courses).
After completing the HSR Initial course, HSRs and deputy HSRs can do a one-day refresher once every year.
