The new requirements around workplace hazardous substance training, since its inception on June 2018, now require Compliance Certifiers to verify:
Training Record of workers trained (list of names)
Training Checklists for each worker (induction / orientation / emergency response and supervision)
Evidence of training in hazardous substances (certificates, SOP’s workbooks, assessments etc.)
PPE / Equipment training record (if required)
Some sites will have all of the above, however most won’t and have something like the old Approved Handler or current ERL Certificate or similar. However, it’s the records part that is important, particularly should an accident or incident be investigated.
Sites now need an actual record of who has been trained (Training Record), particularly as there is now an infringement associated with this.
Could you use a training certificate only, for a sole worker as a record of training?
Yes, however it’s best practice to use a training record for multiple workers. If you don’t have one, DGC has a template for use.
Sites also require something like the WorkSafe Training Checklist for each worker. This covers all the legal requirements as per Reg 4.5.1/2.
Can you use an existing Employee Induction / Orientation Checklist, which should cover most of the basics?
Yes, however if they don’t have one, then WorkSafe have developed one to be used. This checklist also covers supervision. If you don’t have one, DGC has a WorkSafe template for use.
Sites also need to check their PPE or equipment, if they use them. DGC also has a template for this.
Lastly, sites also need workers trained in the five areas mentioned in regulation 4.5.3a i- v. This can be done by anybody, however it’s best a hazardous substance training organisation or professional does this. If your site chooses to do their own training, via a SOP or Instrument, then the Certifier will need to check the training material and assessment, to ensure all five areas are covered. This is covered below. External training providers provide training material and normally issue a training certificate upon completion of training.
If you do not have trained workers, Information and facilitation of regulation 4.5.3a go to DGC Training for more information.
Full legal requirements of a site’s responsibilities for training, can also be found on WorkSafe website:
In summary, your Compliance Certifier will now be asking questions around these new documentation requirements. If you do not have them, the Certifier will in need guide and direct you through them as we look to meet the new regulations.
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