If you encounter issues at your workplace under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act), you have the right to request WorCover Queensland to appoint an inspector who can:
- Make informed decisions on the matter.
- Assist in resolving the issue effectively.
Important Note: It's essential to attempt resolving the issue internally before seeking an inspector's assistance.
Eligible Parties:Requests under the WHS Act should come from involved parties:
- Person Conducting the Business or Undertaking (PCBU) or their representative.
- PCBU or representative in cases involving multiple businesses.
- Health and Safety Representative (HSR) or representative for workgroup-related issues.
- Worker(s) or representative for non-workgroup issues.
PCBU Responsibilities:Ensure the appointed representative is not an HSR, possesses appropriate seniority, and is sufficiently competent.
Making a Request:Contact 1300 362 128 to seek an inspector's assistance with workplace issues or disputes.
Inspector Decision Powers:
Inspectors, once appointed, hold varied powers:
- Decision-making authority in certain cases.
- Assistance through consultation and mediation.
Key Decisions:
- Work Groups (Single Business): Decisions on agreements, workgroup composition, and related matters.
- Health and safety representatives (HSR): Decisions on training courses, paid time off, fees, and training requests.
- Health and safety Committees: Decisions on constitution or non-establishment of health and safety committees.
- Provisional Improvement Notices (PIN): Reviewing, confirming, changing, or canceling PINs.
Additional Assistance Areas:
- Assisting individuals aiding HSR.
- Resolving unresolved health and safety issues.
- Addressing work cessation matters.
- Handling disputes related to right of entry and workplace access.
- Work Groups (Multiple Businesses): Assisting negotiations or making decisions.
Requesting Assistance:When seeking inspector assistance, provide:
- Your role in relation to the issue.
- Contact details of involved parties.
- Details of the business or undertaking, including the ABN if available.
- Information about the issue or dispute.
For Assistance Requests:Call 1300 362 128.