When it comes to workplace health and safety, consultation between a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) and workers is essential. Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (the Act), PCBUs (generally employers) have an obligation to consult with workers and their representatives. To make consultation more effective, workers at a workplace are able to elect Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) to represent their interests and express their views to the employer. Health and safety committees provide a forum through which consultation and communication can occur (see the QNMU’s information sheet titled Health and safety committees for more information).
This information sheet outlines duties of HSRs, why do you need HSRs, what is consultation, can anyone be a HSR, how are HSRs elected, list of HSRs, how long do HSRs hold the position, are HSRs personally liable and training.