Why should we put effort into OHS?

The Role of the Health and Safety Representative
Once elected, the HSR acts on behalf of the Designated Work Group and is entitled:

• to inspect any part of the workplace where DWG members work
  
• to accompany a WorkSafe inspector during their inspection
  
• to request the establishment of a Health and Safety Committee
  
• to be present at any interview between an inspector and an employee who requests their support
  
• to bring in outside assistance
  
• to issue a Provisional Improvement Notice after consultation with the person to whom the notice is to be issued
  
• to have access to information held by the employer relating to actual or potential hazards and the health and safety of employees (but not personal information unless the employee consents)
  
• to take time off work to perform their functions
  
• to take time off work to attend approved training courses
  
• to order that work shall cease, after consultation, in the event of an immediate threat or danger
  
• not to be dismissed or otherwise discriminated against simply because they are carrying out their role
  

For a copy of the HSR Recruitment Kit containing FAQ sheets on the role and election of the HSR, please call the MSU on 03 9417 2822.

Rights and Responsibilities of Health and Safety Representatives
This table outlines the differences between the responsibilities of HSRs and those of the management OHS nominee.