WHSO's in Queensland: Roles, Benefits, and Training Pathways
Published on 31 October 2024
Work Health and Safety Officer (WHSO) Requirements in Queensland
Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Qld), appointing a Work Health and Safety Officer (WHSO) is voluntary, not mandatory. However, businesses—especially those in high-risk industries—may choose to appoint a WHSO to strengthen their safety management and compliance.
WHSO Appointment and Responsibilities
- A WHSO is appointed by the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) in writing.
- To obtain a Certificate of Authority from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ), a person must either:
- Complete a WHSQ-approved WHSO training course, or
- Hold a Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety.
- If a WHSO is appointed, the PCBU must notify WHSQ within 14 days.
- The WHSO's role includes identifying hazards, conducting risk assessments, monitoring compliance, and advising on health and safety matters.
For more information on WHSO training and certification requirements, visit the WorkSafe Queensland website: Work Health and Safety Officer Training
Benefits of Having a WHSO
While appointing a WHSO does not remove the PCBU’s legal obligations, it is a recognised step towards improving workplace safety and reducing risks.
Why Choose a Certificate IV in Work Health & Safety (WHS) Over the WHSO Course?
The Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety (BSB41419) is a nationally recognised qualification that provides a broader and more in-depth understanding of workplace safety compared to the Queensland Government-approved Work Health and Safety Officer (WHSO) course.
The Certificate IV in WHS covers a wide range of safety management principles, including:
| Feature | Certificate IV in WHS (click here) | WHSO Course |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10 days (focus is on completing the work during the course with limited out-of-classroom work required) | 6 to 8 days depending on industry elective (Queensland only) |
| Qualification | Nationally recognised (BSB41419) (Accredited) | Queensland Only – WHSQ Certificate of Authority (Non-Accredited) |
| Scope | Covers broader WHS management principles | Focuses on WHSO responsibilities under Qld legislation |
| Legal Application | Recognised across all Australian states & industries | Only relevant for WHSO role in Queensland |
| Career Pathways | Suitable for WHS Coordinators, Advisors, Safety Officers | Advisory role limited to Qld workplaces |
| Further Study | Provides a pathway to Diploma of WHS | Standalone qualification |
Why Consider the Certificate IV in WHS?
- Greater Career Flexibility – Recognised across multiple industries and jurisdictions.
- Broader Skillset – Covers WHS compliance, risk management, and leadership.
- Meets WHSO Requirements – Holders of a Certificate IV in WHS can apply for a WHSO Certificate of Authority without completing a separate WHSO course.
What is a Health and Safety Representative (HSR)?
A HSR is an elected worker who represents the health and safety interests of their colleagues in the workplace.
Key Points About HSRs:
- Elected by workers in their work group (not appointed by the PCBU).
- Primary role: To represent workers' concerns about WHS matters and consult with the PCBU.
- Legal powers include:
- Inspecting workplace hazards.
- Issuing Provisional Improvement Notices (PINs) if there’s a WHS breach.
- Directing unsafe work to cease if there is an immediate risk.
- HSRs must complete a 5-day WHSQ-approved training course within 28 days of being elected (with a 1-day refresher course required annually).
- PCBU must consult with HSRs on WHS issues but is not required to follow their recommendations.
How is a WHSO Different from an HSR?
| Feature | Health and Safety Representative (HSR) | Work Health and Safety Officer (WHSO) |
|---|---|---|
| Who appoints them? | Elected by workers | Appointed by the PCBU |
| Purpose | Represents workers’ WHS interests | Advises the PCBU on WHS compliance |
| Legal Powers? | Can issue PINs & stop unsafe work | No enforcement powers |
| Training | Mandatory 5-day HSR course and 1-day refreshers annually | WHSQ-approved WHSO course or Cert IV WHS |
| Mandatory? | Required if requested by workers | Voluntary for businesses |
| Who they report to? | Workers | PCBU / Management |
Disclaimer
The information above is provided for information purposes only – we note that legislation and regulations are prone to change and therefore you should always make reference to Workplace Health and Safety Queensland to ensure you have the latest information (https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/).
