Powers of HSR's.
admin • November 27, 2024
Health and Safety Representative have substantial powers.
It is important to remember that The Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 does not impose any duties upon HSR's. It does, however, provide HSR's with a number of powers.
HSR's have the Power to:
- Inspect any part of workplace in which a member of their Designated Work Group (DWG) works.
- Take photographs or measurements or make sketches or recordings in any part of the workplace in which a member of their DWG works.
- Accompany an inspector during a workplace inspection involving their DWG.
- Require a Health and Safety Committee to be established.
- Attend interviews on OHS matters, to represent a DWG member who consents.
- Seek the assistance of any person when necessary.
- Access information relating to the OHS interests of their DWG.
- Issue a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) if they reasonably believe that there has been a contravention of The Act or The Regulations, and they have tried to remedy the contravention through consultation.
- Direct employees to Cease Work - if an OHS issue arises which involves an immediate threat to health and safety.
These powers are intended to assist HSR's in fulfilling their function as the representative of their DWG. But it is important to remember that it is not the HSR, but the employer who has the responsibility for providing a healthy and safe workplace.
You can find more information on the Powers of HSR's at: Powers of health and safety representatives | WorkSafe Victoria.
If you need further guidance on this, please reach out to BeSafe at: HSR Training and support | BeSafe | Regional Victoria.
On 28 April 2026 , BeSafe joined those gathered at Argyle Square, Carlton , to mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) in Melbourne. The ceremony honoured those who have lost their lives due to workplace injury or illness and renewed a shared commitment to safer, healthier workplaces. The service began with speeches made by The Secretary of Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC) Luke Hilikari, Premier Jacinta Allen, WorkSafe CEO Cathy Henderson and Lived Experience Advocate Lana Cormie. Assistant Secretary of VTHC Wil Stracke was the MC for the occasion and the Trade Union Choir sang throughout. The most moving part of the service was, as always, the boot laying ceremony. This year, 60 pairs of boots were laid to represent the workers lost in the past 12 months. Finally, a rose was laid to represent those who are not counted - in recognition that the numbers are vastly underestimated and many workplace deaths are not recorded in the official statistics. The vision of 60 pairs of boots sitting upon stools in the park is profoundly tragic and deeply moving. A minutes silence marked the moment. This was followed by attendees laying wreaths to honour the fallen workers. The speeches included messages of regret and sorrow, but also a call to action – as we can only truly honour the dead if we take action to ensure the safety of the workers of the future. “ Honour the dead, and fight like hell for the living .” At BeSafe, we are passionate about workers’ safety and we will continue to do anything we can to improve the safety of all Victorian workplaces. For more on this: Strong union message at workers’ memorial — Independent Education Union Victoria Tasmania STRONG MESSAGE TO COMMEMORATE FALLEN WORKERS ON IWMD - OHS Reps
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