Employers duties in relation to HSRs

admin • October 13, 2025

Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) play a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of employees in the workplace. Employers have specific legal obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS Act) to support and collaborate with HSRs. Knowing and understanding these duties are not just about compliance, they are about fostering a culture of safety and mutual respect in the workplace.


Who Are HSRs?

HSRs are workers elected by their peers to represent their health and safety interests. They act as a bridge between employees and employers, ensuring that safety concerns are raised, addressed, and resolved effectively. Their role is vital in creating a safer, more inclusive workplace. It is important to understand that HSRs are workers who volunteer to represent their co-workers. They have powers under the OHS Act, but they do not have duties. However, the employer does. Here are some of them...


Key Employer Duties Toward HSRs

Employers in Victoria must actively support HSRs to enable them to perform their roles effectively. Below are the primary duties employers must fulfill:


1.Allowing HSRs to access information.

Employers must allow HSRs to access information relating to their Designated Work Group (DWG) relating to:

  • The health and safety of members of their DWG
  • Actual or potential hazards in the workplace

Employers are required to share information related to workplace hazards, risks, safety measures and incidents with HSRs. This transparency helps HSRs make informed decisions and advocate for worker safety effectively.


2. Allow HSRs to be present at interviews

HSRs must be allowed to represent a member of their DWG (whether an employee or contractor), if the member provides consent. This includes meetings or interviews with the employer, employer's representative or an inspector.


3. Allow HSRs to have time off work with pay

The employer must provide paid time for the HSR to

  • Do any work which involves them exercising their powers under The Act
  • Completing any WorkSafe approved training (with 14 days notice)


4. Providing facilities and assistance

The employer must enable the HSR to exercise their powers by providing any facilities and assistance required.


5. Allow access of persons providing assistance to HSRs

The HSR can request the assistance of any person to resolve and OHS issue and this must be facilitated by the employer, unless they are not considered suitable to assist with OHS matters.


6. Display a written list of HSRs

The employer must ensure that a written list of HSRs (and deputy HSRs) is displayed in the workplace where it is readily available to the employees.


7. Facilitating Training

Employers must ensure that HSRs are able to access training to perform their role. In Victoria, HSRs are entitled to attend a WorkSafe-approved HSR training course (see: HSR Training Courses | BeSafe | Regional Victoria) and refresher courses annually. Employers are responsible for:

  • Covering the cost of training
  • Allowing paid leave for HSRs to attend training
  • Allowing HSRs to choose their training provider


7. Allow HSRs to perform all of their Functions according to their powers under the OHS Act

This includes all the powers outlined in our blog on the Powers of HSR's.


8. Consulting with HSRs

Employers must consult with HSRs on matters that may affect the health and safety of workers. This includes:

  • Changes to workplace processes, equipment, or systems
  • Development or review of safety policies and procedures
  • Risk assessments and control measures


9. Protecting HSRs from Discrimination

HSRs must be able to perform their duties without fear of discrimination or disadvantage. Employers are prohibited from treating HSRs unfavourably because of their role.


Why These Duties Matter

Fulfilling these obligations is not just about legal compliance, it’s about creating a workplace where safety is prioritised, and workers feel valued. When employers actively support HSRs, they:

  • Reduce workplace injuries and illnesses.
  • Foster trust and collaboration between workers and management.
  • Enhance overall productivity and morale.


Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to meet these duties can result in significant penalties under the OHS Act. Beyond the legal consequences, neglecting HSRs can damage workplace relationships and lead to a decline in safety standards.


Conclusion

Employers have a critical role in empowering HSRs to champion workplace safety. By meeting their obligations under the OHS Act, employers not only comply with the law but also contribute to a safer, healthier, and more harmonious work environment. Supporting HSRs is an investment in the well-being of your workforce and ultimately, the success of your business.

If you’re an employer, take the time to review your practices and ensure you’re meeting your duties toward HSRs. A proactive approach to workplace safety benefits everyone involved.

The Granville Train Disaster

By admin • January 12, 2026
The Granville rail disaster occurred on 18 January 1977 and remains the deadliest rail incident in Australian history. It resulted in the death of 84 people and injured a further 213. The train left the Blue Mountains at 6:09 on 18 th January 1977 and by the time it reached Sydney there were at least 469 passengers on board. At 8:10 the train derailed on a curve in a deep cutting at Granville and it hit the supports of the Bold St Bridge. This resulted in the bridge collapsing onto the train carriages and the passengers inside. The result was catastrophic loss of life and vast numbers of injuries, with many passengers and rescuers suffering from ongoing trauma. The train crash would expose inadequacies in the NSW railway maintenance processes, oversight and emergency response preparedness. The inquest and reviews into the incident became controversial in that there were allegations that the process was unduly influenced. Despite this it was clear that there were many opportunities for prevention of future railway disasters. There has been extensive criticism of the management and oversight both before and after the disaster.  There is much that is concerning about this case, including the support of those injured and bereaved in the incident. The failure to act following previous incidents on the track is particularly disturbing. There had been two previous derailments on the same section of track, resulting in trains hitting the Bold St Bridge. One in 1967 and another in 1975. Had the issue been addressed on either of these occasions, perhaps the disaster in 1877 would have been avoided. This highlights the importance of investigating incidents and ‘near misses’ and acting to resolve safety issues at the earliest opportunity. 40 years after the disaster, in 2017, the Premier of NSW delivered a belated official apology on behalf of the Government: Granville: Mixed response as NSW Government apologises for Australia's worst train disaster - ABC News An award winning docu-drama named “The Day Of The Roses” was produced as a dramatic depiction of the events surrounding the Granville train crash. It can be found here: https://youtu.be/ZkFBfQA9oxg?si=g_ePZ0kn0KpFrLLE . Those interested in incident investigation, prevention and related matters may well find it thought-provoking.

Snakes in the workplace

By admin • December 15, 2025
Snakes are a natural part of the Australian environment, but when they enter worksites, they can pose significant risks. Snakes are most commonly encountered in industries such as construction and agriculture, but snakes can appear in any workplace – including in offices, warehouses, outdoor work areas, or storage spaces. Warm weather increases snake activity, making encounters more likely during summer months. The danger presented by snakes is very real, as snakebites can cause serious injury or death. Common Risk Factors There are certain workplace conditions which increase the likelihood of snakes appearing: Vacant sites : Snakes often move into quiet areas during holiday breaks or weekends. Shelter opportunities : Stored materials, rubble, sheds, and equipment provide dark, cool hiding spots. Food sources : Mice, frogs, and other small animals attract snakes to worksites. Hot weather : Snakes become bolder and more active in summer. Prevention Strategies As always, employers are required to reduce risks to health and safety in the workplace. They can do this by adopting proactive measures: Site housekeeping : Remove rubbish, debris, and unused materials where snakes could hide. Control food sources : Limit rodent and frog populations by managing waste and water. Protective gear : Wear gloves, boots and long pants when working outside or handling stored materials. Awareness training : Inform workers about snake risks, especially after site closures or during hot weather. First Aid training: ensure staff are trained in the initial response in the case of a bite. If a snake is seen in the workplace One of the most important safety messages is never provoke a snake. Most bites occur when people attempt to attack or handle snakes. If a snake is sighted: Stop work in the area immediately. Report the sighting to supervisors. Contact local authorities or licensed snake catchers to remove the hazard. First Aid for Snake Bites Your workplace should have a trained First Aider. The initial first aid for a bite should include: Lie the person down and keep them still. Applying a broad, firm bandage around the bitten limb, about as tightly as for a sprained ankle. Bandage over the bite site first and then bandage as much of the limb as possible, starting from below upwards. Keep the victim still and calm and splint the limb if possible. Do not cut, wash, or apply a tourniquet to the bite. Access immediate medical care - dial 000. Don’t forget that you will need to complete an incident report after a snake bite has occurred. Then, your risk management follow up processes should be followed. A snake bite may be classified as a notifiable incident, in which case it must be reported to WorkSafe Victoria – call 13 23 60 . Conclusion Snakes are a real workplace hazard , especially in construction, agriculture, and outdoor industries. If your workplace is high risk for snakes then you are required to control the risk of snake bite. Prevention and awareness are the best defence: keep sites clean, reduce food sources, and train workers. Never provoke a snake —leave removal to professionals. First aid knowledge can save lives in the event of a bite. By treating snakes as a legitimate occupational hazard, workplaces can protect their workers from a potentially fatal hazard. For more information, see the following resources: Snakes at work: why you should never handle one yourself | WorkSafe.qld.gov.au Snakes on sites - OHS Reps Notifiable incidents under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 | WorkSafe Victoria https://stjohn.org.au/app/uploads/2025/08/Fact-sheets_snake-bite.pdf