HSR questions

This page contains questions raised by HSRs and answers provided by subject matter experts, which may be of interest to you

How important is cost when working out what is reasonably practical in relation to a PCBU’s duty to ensure health and safety?

After assessing the extent of the risk and the available ways of eliminating the risk, the cost should only be considered if it is grossly disproportionate to the risk. The question of what is ‘reasonably practicable’ is to be determined objectively, and not by reference to the duty-holder’s capacity to pay. The more likely the hazard or risk, or the greater the harm that may result from it, the less weight should be given to the cost of eliminating the hazard or risk.

Guideline: How to determine what is reasonably practicable to meet a health and safety duty Section 5.3.

Is an HSR’s term of office from the date of election or end of their training?

The start of the 3-year term commences upon completion of the election process. The elected HSR can then make a request to the PCBU to attend an approved training course of their choice as soon as practicable and within 3 months of the request. In the meantime, the HSR can still exercise the powers and perform the functions required to represent their workgroup. However, only a trained HSR can direct the cessation of unsafe work or issue a provisional improvement notice.

 

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