Training for health and safety reps
Health and safety reps are entitled under the 2004 OHS Act to attend an approved five-day training course on election, and are strongly urged to do so as soon as possible so they can exercise their powers effectively.
The HSR can choose which course to attend. You should inform your principal or manager which course you wish to attend at least 14 days before it is due to start.
Victorian Trades Hall courses
The Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC) conducts an approved course. It provides information and a framework for the HSR to effectively undertake their functions under the OHS Act. It also provides the basis to learn new skills in health and safety‚ communication and negotiation as well as the opportunity to share experience with other HSR.
If you are being urged to attend a course run by any other provider‚ please contact the AEU for advice.
Some of the courses are general and open to all groups while some are designed specifically for those in education. Please check when registering if you have a strong preference.
Follow-up training sessions are available through VTHC on specific topics as well as for HSRs who wish to refresh their knowledge and expertise.
Costs
Training and associated CRT costs are one of the rights of the HSR under Section 67 of the Act (1985 Section 31). Schools should contact their Regional Office to discuss current funding arrangements for the training element. Schools experiencing difficulty with this should contact the AEU for advice.
The CRT costs are met from the school's CRT budget. If this causes difficulties, the school can request assistance from the Region's contingency budget. No-one should be prevented from attending the training on financial grounds.
The AEU is currently developing a number of PD and training opportunities for HSRs and deputy HSRs. Details of these and other relevant training will appear on this page. The Act provides for refresher training and details of these will also be posted as they are finalised.
AEU Health and Safety Rep Training
The AEU seeks to empower elected HSRs by providing training and support to help them make the most of the OHS Act. Events will run each term, from 1.30pm to 4pm. The first will consider how to use the OHS Act to improve safety in the workplace, with a look at relevant case studies. Dates for 2013 will be posted here soon.
