Author: Caroline Kingston

Sherm Software is a web-based HSEQ management solution that comes with a Mobile App for both iOS and Android. Sherm is an Australian-developed HSEQ system, hosted in a secure data centre located in Brisbane. Developed in 2012, Sherm has become a trusted SaaS platform across diverse industries, offering tools for incident management, employee management, risk management, compliance, document management, training, audits, and more. Sherm empowers organisations with an integrated HSEQ management system, enabling the development, implementation, and review of management systems, training records, and legal requirements. This builds a strong safety culture and ensures compliance with HSEQ regulations.

Is RF EME the Next Emerging WHS Risk? Here’s Why You Should Pay Attention

Posted on 28/03/2025 by Caroline Kingston

In today’s tech-saturated world, Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Energy (RF EME) is everywhere—from mobile phone towers and Wi-Fi routers to smart meters and industrial antennas. While most regulatory bodies claim current exposure levels are safe, growing independent research suggests it’s time to look deeper.

At Sherm, we’re always thinking ahead for our clients. That’s why we’ve just released a new RF EME Awareness Procedure and Risk Assessment Template as part of our commitment to emerging risk management.

⚠️ The Science Isn’t Settled—But the Risk Is Real

Regulatory bodies like ARPANSA and ICNIRP base exposure limits on thermal effects (tissue heating). However, independent research—including the BioInitiative Report and studies published in peer-reviewed journals—highlights non-thermal biological effects such as:

Oxidative stress
Sleep disturbance
DNA damage
Neurological changes
Increased cancer risk

These effects have been observed at exposure levels well below current “safe” limits.

📋 What Sherm Clients Can Access Now

Our new RF EME document pack includes:

A practical RF EME Awareness Procedure aligned with WHS obligations
A ready-to-use Risk Assessment Template for evaluating site-based exposure
A contrast between ARPANSA/ICNIRP standards and precautionary guidelines recommended by the BioInitiative Report

These documents are perfect for organisations working near high-frequency zones or simply wanting to stay ahead of emerging compliance expectations.

🧭 Leading with Precaution

While there may be no official consensus yet, the principle of “better safe than sorry” has never been more relevant. Proactive management of RF EME exposure isn’t just smart risk governance—it’s responsible leadership in health and safety.

Ready to empower your workforce and strengthen your WHS compliance?

👉 Contact Sherm to learn more or request access to our RF EME documentation suite.

Modifications to Plant and Equipment Guards

Posted on 18/03/2025 by Caroline Kingston

Modifications to plant and equipment guards should not be made without proper assessment and approval due to several legal, safety, and compliance reasons.

Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations

Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and associated regulations, employers must ensure that machinery and equipment are safe for use.
Modifying guards may create new hazards, making the equipment non-compliant with Safe Work Australia standards.

Manufacturer’s Specifications and Warranty

Modifications may void the manufacturer’s warranty and liability coverage.
Manufacturers design guards to meet AS/NZS safety standards, and unauthorised changes can compromise their effectiveness.

Risk of Injury and Legal Liability

Guards are designed to prevent entanglement, crushing, cutting, and impact injuries.
Unauthorised modifications can expose workers to serious injuries, leading to workers’ compensation claims, legal penalties, and prosecution.

Compliance with Australian Standards

This standard governs the safety of machinery and requires guards to be designed and installed to prevent operator exposure to hazards.
Modifying guards may render the equipment non-compliant, leading to legal consequences and enforcement actions by Safe Work regulators.

Consultation and Risk Management Requirements

WHS laws require employers to consult with workers and safety representatives before altering plant and equipment.
A formal risk assessment is required before making any changes to safety controls.

Potential for Increased Maintenance Costs and Downtime

Unapproved modifications can cause equipment failure, breakdowns, or inefficiencies, increasing downtime and repair costs.

What Should Be Done Instead?

If changes to guards are necessary, they should be:
- Assessed by a qualified engineer or safety professional.
- Approved by the manufacturer where possible.
- Tested and documented through a risk assessment process.
- Compliant with relevant Australian Standards and WHS laws.

Plant and Equipment Emergency Stops

In addition to avoiding unauthorised modifications to plant and equipment guards, it is essential to check the operation and positioning of emergency stops to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Compliance with WHS Regulations and Australian Standards

The Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act 2011 mandates that plant and equipment must have effective emergency stops.
AS/NZS 4024.1604 (Emergency Stop Principles) specifies that emergency stops must be:
- Easily identifiable and accessible.
- Located in positions where operators can quickly activate them.
- Designed to override all other controls and stop the machine immediately.

Risk of Delayed Emergency Response

Poorly positioned or non-functional emergency stops can delay critical responses, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
Regular checks ensure that emergency stops are operational and within easy reach of workers.

Prevention of Equipment Damage and Downtime

A functional emergency stop prevents further mechanical damage to equipment in case of malfunction.
Proper positioning helps reduce machine downtime and costly repairs.

Legal and Financial Consequences

Failure to ensure emergency stops are functional and correctly positioned may result in Safe Work Australia enforcement actions, penalties, or even prosecution.

Best Practices for Emergency Stop Checks

Visual Inspection – Ensure emergency stop buttons are clearly marked (red with a yellow background) and not obstructed.
Operational Testing – Regularly test emergency stops to confirm they work as intended.
Worker Accessibility – Ensure emergency stops are within easy reach of operators and maintenance personnel.
Training and Awareness – Educate workers on proper emergency stop usage and procedures.

Sherm Software will schedule routine Workplace Inspections to ensure plant and equipment safety guards and emergency stops are regularly tested, while Sherm’s Training and Competency module will leave employers with the peace of mind that their workers have been educated on the importance of proper emergency stop usage and procedures.

Streamline Workplace Safety with Sherm’s ISO 45001 Software

Posted on 12/03/2025 by Caroline Kingston

Workplace safety is critical to business success, and having the right tools to manage occupational health and safety (OHS) efficiently is essential. Sherm Software offers an advanced ISO 45001-compliant solution that streamlines safety processes, ensuring compliance, reducing risks, and fostering a proactive safety culture.

What is ISO 45001 Software?

ISO 45001 is the international standard for OHS management systems, helping businesses identify risks, control hazards, and maintain compliance with safety regulations. Traditional safety management methods often involve manual documentation and disconnected systems, leading to inefficiencies. Sherm Software simplifies these processes by automating incident reporting, risk assessments, compliance tracking, and audit management.

With a centralised, cloud-based platform, Sherm Software enables organisations to monitor safety performance, track corrective actions, and ensure seamless communication among team members. This proactive approach helps prevent workplace accidents and reinforces a culture of continuous improvement.

Why Choose Sherm Software for ISO 45001 Compliance?

Sherm Software is designed to meet the unique safety needs of businesses, offering a user-friendly platform with key features such as:

Incident Reporting & Management – Capture, track, and resolve workplace incidents efficiently, ensuring corrective actions are implemented.
Risk Assessments & Hazard Identification – Identify and evaluate workplace hazards with structured workflows, ensuring compliance with ISO 45001 standards.
Audit & Compliance Tracking – Maintain real-time records, generate automated reports, and prepare for regulatory inspections with ease.
Safety Documentation Management – Centralise safety policies, procedures, and training records, ensuring accessibility and version control.
Automated Notifications & Alerts – Keep employees informed about safety tasks, compliance deadlines, and upcoming audits.

The Benefits of Implementing Sherm Software

Investing in Sherm Software brings significant advantages, including:

Reduced Workplace Incidents – Proactive hazard identification and risk management prevent accidents, ensuring a safer work environment.
Increased Efficiency – Automating OHS processes saves time, reduces administrative burdens, and improves overall productivity.
Improved Regulatory Compliance – Businesses remain compliant with ISO 45001 and other legal requirements, reducing risks of penalties and fines.
Enhanced Employee Engagement – A user-friendly platform empowers employees to report hazards, participate in safety programs, and stay informed about workplace safety.

How Sherm Software Streamlines Safety Management

Sherm Software centralises all safety data, ensuring that businesses can monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and safety trends in real time. With built-in analytics and reporting, businesses can make data-driven decisions, optimise safety processes, and demonstrate compliance during audits.

Additionally, Sherm’s cloud-based system allows access from any device, ensuring that safety managers, supervisors, and employees can collaborate seamlessly, regardless of location. Automated workflows eliminate the need for manual record-keeping, reducing human error and ensuring that safety initiatives are executed effectively.

Invest in Workplace Safety Excellence with Sherm

Ensuring workplace safety is not just about compliance—it’s about creating a secure and productive work environment. Sherm Software provides the tools needed to manage safety proactively, reduce risks, and drive operational excellence.

By implementing Sherm’s ISO 45001 software, businesses can stay ahead of regulatory requirements, build a safety-first culture, and enhance overall performance.

Discover how Sherm Software can revolutionise your workplace safety management today!

Safety Data Sheets

Posted on 07/02/2025 by Caroline Kingston

Safety Data Sheets (SDS), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), provide detailed information about the properties, handling, storage, and risks associated with chemicals or substances. These documents are crucial for workplace safety, as they offer essential guidance on how to safely manage hazardous materials.

Workplaces must review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) regularly to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees, comply with regulations, and manage risks associated with hazardous substances. Here are several reasons why this review is essential:

Legal Compliance

Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act) and the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (WHS Regulation), employers are required to ensure the health and safety of their workers. Reviewing SDSs helps ensure compliance with legal obligations concerning the handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances.

Updated Information

Safety Data Sheets are frequently updated to reflect new scientific findings, regulatory changes, or product formulations. By reviewing these documents, workplaces can stay informed about any changes to the hazards, risk control measures, and emergency procedures related to substances used in their operations.

Risk Mitigation

SDSs provide crucial information about the physical, chemical, and toxicological properties of substances. Reviewing these documents allows employers to assess risks and implement appropriate control measures (such as ventilation, PPE, or storage procedures) to protect employees from potential hazards.

Health and Safety of Workers

Regular review of SDSs helps ensure that workers are properly informed of potential health risks (e.g., exposure to toxic chemicals, allergens, or carcinogens) and that preventive measures are in place to protect them. This contributes to a safer working environment and reduces the likelihood of accidents, illnesses, or injuries.

Emergency Preparedness

SDSs include information about emergency procedures (such as first aid, fire-fighting measures, and spill response). Regularly reviewing these sheets ensures that workers and emergency response teams are prepared to handle any incidents swiftly and appropriately.

Training and Education

Reviewing SDSs allows workplaces to develop or update training materials and programs for staff, ensuring that they understand how to safely handle hazardous materials. This helps foster a culture of safety and awareness among workers.

Environmental Protection

Some SDSs also contain information about the environmental impact of substances, including their toxicity to aquatic life or potential for soil contamination. By reviewing SDSs, workplaces can implement measures to reduce environmental harm, such as proper waste disposal or spill prevention.

Improved Incident Reporting and Investigation

In the event of an incident or accident, reviewing the relevant SDSs can help identify the cause, assess whether proper safety measures were in place, and guide investigations. This ensures better incident analysis and helps prevent future occurrences.

In summary, reviewing Safety Data Sheets is crucial for maintaining compliance with safety regulations, protecting workers, and minimising environmental impact, all while ensuring that any potential hazards are managed effectively.

Sherm Software’s Registers Module equips organisations with powerful tools to maintain comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date safety records. Document all chemicals used within the business, filtered by site, department, and hazardous status. Monitor Safety Data Sheet expiry and completed risk assessments, with the option to export a Site-Based Chemical Register. Workers can access Safety Data Sheets using the Mobile App.

Get in touch with us today and learn more about how Sherm Software can make your Work Health and Safety requirements easy.

Creating a Safe and Supportive Work Environment

Posted on 29/01/202505/02/2025 by Caroline Kingston

Creating a safe and supportive work environment is key to employee well-being, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Here are some key strategies for fostering such an environment:

Clear Communication and Transparency

Open Dialogue: Encourage employees to speak up if they have concerns, and make sure they feel heard and respected. Create channels where feedback is welcomed and valued.
Transparency: Be clear about expectations, goals, and organisational changes. This helps employees feel informed and less anxious.

Promote Inclusion and Diversity

Inclusive Culture: Ensure that all employees, regardless of their background, feel included. Celebrate diversity and implement practices that prevent discrimination.
Diverse Hiring: Aim for a workforce that represents various backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. This leads to more innovative ideas and solutions.

Mental Health Support

Access to Resources: Provide resources such as counselling, mental health days, or access to an employee assistance program (EAP). Normalise discussing mental health issues.
Work-life Balance: Encourage employees to disconnect outside of work hours and support flexible work arrangements when possible.

Respect for Boundaries

Clear Work Hours: Make sure that employees understand that boundaries around work hours and communication (e.g., no after-hours emails) are respected.
Avoiding Burnout: Recognise the signs of burnout and encourage employees to take breaks, use vacation days, and decompress.

Safe Physical Workspace

Ergonomics and Safety: Ensure the physical workspace is comfortable and free from hazards. This includes providing ergonomic furniture and ensuring all safety regulations are met.
Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in shared spaces to help employees feel safe and comfortable.

Strong Leadership and Supportive Management

Lead by Example: Managers should model respectful behaviour, transparency, and integrity. They should show empathy toward their team and maintain open lines of communication.
Training for Managers: Provide training for managers on emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and leadership styles that promote a positive work environment.

Recognise and Reward Contributions

Acknowledgment: Regularly acknowledge employees’ hard work and accomplishments. Recognition can be through simple thank-yous, public acknowledgment, or formal rewards programs.
Incentive Programs: Implement systems for rewards that motivate employees, such as bonuses, promotions, or additional time off.

Foster Collaboration and Team Spirit

Team-Building Activities: Organise events, virtual or in-person, to build trust among team members and allow them to connect outside of work tasks.
Collaborative Work Environment: Encourage teamwork and help employees feel like they’re part of a collective mission, rather than just individuals working in isolation.

Zero Tolerance for Harassment

Clear Policies: Have a clear anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policy in place and ensure that employees know how to report any incidents without fear of retaliation.
Prompt Action: Take immediate and appropriate action if any complaints of harassment or bullying arise, showing that you take such matters seriously.

Provide Growth and Development Opportunities

Training and Mentorship: Offer professional development programs, mentorship opportunities, or career advancement support.
Encourage Growth: Empower employees to learn new skills and take on challenging projects to help them feel fulfilled in their roles.

Creating a safe and supportive environment is a continuous effort, but the impact on employee engagement, retention, and morale can be transformative.

Sherm Software’s Incident Management provides an efficient solution for managing workplace incidents, from initial reporting to final resolution. With features that support compliance, encourage a culture of safety, and streamline the incident process, Sherm is an invaluable tool for organisations prioritising a safe work environment.

Work Health and Safety Data Reporting

Posted on 23/01/202505/02/2025 by Caroline Kingston

Work health and safety (WHS) data reporting is essential for tracking workplace safety, monitoring risks, and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. It involves gathering, analysing, and sharing information related to the safety and well-being of employees, as well as any incidents or hazards in the workplace.

Here are some key components typically included in WHS data reporting:

Incident and Accident Reports

Types of incidents: Work-related injuries, illnesses, near misses, property damage, environmental impact.
Details captured: Date, time, location, description of the incident, those involved, severity, and corrective actions taken.

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

Types of hazards: Physical (e.g., machinery), chemical (e.g., exposure to toxic substances), biological (e.g., viruses), ergonomic (e.g., repetitive strain), and psychosocial hazards (e.g., stress, harassment).
Risk rating: Likelihood and severity assessments, to prioritise corrective actions.

Safety Inspections and Audits

Regular inspections of workspaces, equipment, and safety procedures.
Documentation of findings, corrective actions taken, and dates for follow-up inspections.

Training and Education

Tracking employee participation in safety training programs, such as hazard awareness, first aid, and emergency response.
Monitoring compliance with mandatory training requirements.

Workplace Health Monitoring

Tracking employee health reports related to workplace exposure (e.g., hearing tests, vision exams, respiratory health for workers in hazardous environments).
Reporting on wellness programs, mental health support, and stress management initiatives.

Compliance and Legal Reporting

Reporting on adherence to local, national, and international health and safety regulations.
Reporting of injuries or fatalities to regulatory bodies within required timeframes.

Workplace Injury/Illness Claims

Documentation of workers’ compensation claims, including details about the incident, treatment, and any compensation awarded.
Tracking patterns or trends that might indicate ongoing safety issues in particular areas or processes.

Safety Performance Indicators

Leading indicators: Safety training completion, hazard reports, safety audits.
Lagging indicators: Incident rates, lost-time injuries, workers’ compensation costs.

Corrective Actions

Reports detailing corrective actions taken after incidents or safety audits.
Data on the effectiveness of actions taken to prevent future incidents.

Employee Engagement and Feedback

Employee surveys, safety committee meeting minutes, or suggestions for improving safety.
Reporting on worker satisfaction with the safety culture.

Common Reporting Tools

Incident Management Systems (IMS): Software tools for capturing and tracking incidents in real-time.
Safety Management Software: Comprehensive platforms like Sherm Software for managing WHS data.
Dashboards and Visual Reports: To present WHS data in an easily understandable format for management and workers.

Key Objectives of WHS Data Reporting

Compliance: Ensuring adherence to occupational health and safety regulations and standards.
Risk Mitigation: Identifying hazards early to prevent injuries or damage.
Continuous Improvement: Using data to improve safety protocols, training, and hazard controls.
Transparency: Keeping employees and stakeholders informed about workplace safety.

Sherm Software specialises in Work Health and Safety (WHS) management, helping businesses streamline the reporting and tracking of safety data. Get in touch with us today and discover how easy Work Health and Safety Data Reporting can be.

Christmas Season Work Health and Safety

Posted on 12/12/2024 by Caroline Kingston

Christmas can be a busy time at work, but it’s also a time when workplace health and safety should not be overlooked. Whether it’s an office party, seasonal decorations, or increased workloads, there are a number of health and safety considerations for employers and employees to keep in mind. Here’s a rundown of key areas to focus on:

Workplace Decorations

Safe Decoration Practices:

Avoid blocking exits, fire alarms, or emergency equipment with decorations.
Ensure that Christmas lights or electrical decorations are in good condition, used safely, and switched off when not in use to prevent fire hazards.
Use non-slip mats or adhesives for decorations on the floor to avoid tripping hazards.
Secure decorations properly so that they don’t fall or cause accidents.

Christmas Parties and Social Gatherings

Alcohol Consumption:

If alcohol is served at office parties, ensure there are non-alcoholic options available and consider providing guidance on responsible drinking.
Remind employees to arrange safe transport home if they’ve been drinking (e.g. taxis, public transport, or designated drivers).
Avoid any inappropriate or unsafe behaviour and ensure the environment remains professional.

Physical Safety:

If the party involves dancing or other physical activities, ensure the area is free from obstacles that could lead to slips, trips, or falls.
For events held outside the workplace (e.g. at a restaurant or venue), ensure the venue has sufficient safety measures in place, such as lighting, parking, and first aid.

Ergonomics and Overwork

Managing Stress and Workload:

The holiday season can bring increased workloads due to end of year deadlines or additional customer demand. Employers should ensure employees are not overworked and have clear guidance on managing workloads to avoid stress-related injuries or burnout.

Office Setup and Ergonomics:

Ensure employees have ergonomic workstations to avoid back and neck pain, especially if they are working longer hours during the holiday season.

Fire Safety

Christmas Trees and Lights:

Use fire-safe Christmas trees (artificial or real) and ensure that decorations, especially lights, are UL-certified or comply with relevant safety standards.
Ensure that all electrical items are switched off when not in use to prevent fire hazards.
If using candles for decoration, they should be placed safely away from any flammable materials and never left unattended.

Mental Health and Well-being

Support for Employees:

Christmas can be a stressful time for some, with tight deadlines, financial pressure, or family issues. It’s important to offer support through employee assistance programs (EAPs) or mental health resources.
Encourage employees to take breaks and manage their time well to reduce stress.

Work-Life Balance:

Respect employees’ need for time off during the holiday season and ensure everyone is able to take breaks and recharge. Flexible schedules can help manage the seasonal workload while still allowing time for rest.

Risk Assessment and Planning

Reviewing Health and Safety Policies:

Before the holiday season begins, review your workplace’s health and safety policies and procedures, particularly in light of any seasonal activities.
Conduct a risk assessment for any Christmas-specific events or decorations and implement strategies to mitigate those risks.

Employee Training and Communication

Clear Communication:

Remind staff about safety practices leading up to the holidays, especially if your workplace involves physical activities, events, or travel.
Ensure that all employees are informed about safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and how to report hazards or incidents during the holiday period.

By keeping these tips in mind, employers can ensure that the workplace remains a safe, healthy, and enjoyable environment throughout the holiday season, allowing employees to celebrate while minimising risk.

SWMS – Reviewing and Updating Safe Work Method Statements

Posted on 09/12/202405/02/2025 by Caroline Kingston

Reviewing and updating Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) is crucial for maintaining workplace safety and ensuring that work is carried out in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Here are some key reasons why this process is important:

Ensures Compliance with Legal Requirements

Legislation, regulations, and industry standards can change over time. Regularly reviewing and updating SWMS ensures that your organisation remains compliant with the latest laws and guidelines related to work health and safety.

Reflects Changes in Work Practices

Work processes or equipment used in a task may change at times. New tools, techniques, or materials might be introduced that could alter risks. Updating the SWMS to reflect these changes ensures that the document remains accurate and relevant.

Addresses New Risks

New risks or hazards can emerge, particularly if the work environment changes (e.g., construction sites, factories). A review ensures that these risks are identified and mitigated by revising safety protocols in the SWMS.

Improves Safety Outcomes

Regularly reviewing SWMS ensures that safety measures remain effective. If certain hazards have not been addressed effectively, the review process allows for the introduction of additional controls, protective measures, or procedures.

Ensures Effectiveness of Control Measures

Sometimes, control measures in place may not be as effective as initially thought. Reviewing the SWMS gives an opportunity to evaluate the success of existing controls and improve or replace them if necessary.

Adaptation to New Technology or Equipment

With advances in technology or the introduction of new equipment, existing SWMS may need to be updated to account for different operating conditions or safety considerations that new tools may present.

Ensures Worker Training and Understanding

Workers may need to be re-educated or retrained on updated procedures. A review of SWMS ensures that the document remains relevant for the specific tasks being performed, improving workers’ understanding and compliance.

Promotes a Safety Culture

Continuously reviewing and updating SWMS demonstrates a commitment to safety and shows employees that safety is a top priority. This promotes a safety-conscious work culture and can encourage workers to take an active role in their own safety as well as others around them.

Responds to Incident Feedback

After incidents or near misses, it’s essential to review and update SWMS to reflect lessons learned and prevent similar events from occurring in the future. The review process ensures that the SWMS is dynamic and responsive to the evolving risk landscape.

Increases Efficiency

An up-to-date SWMS can streamline the work process by clearly identifying hazards and outlining the most effective safety procedures. This reduces confusion and improves workflow, contributing to both safety and productivity.

Risk Mitigation

As risks evolve or new hazards are identified, SWMS should be updated to include the necessary risk control strategies. This helps prevent accidents and injuries by ensuring that all foreseeable risks are covered.

In summary, reviewing and updating SWMS is essential for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. It ensures that safety protocols evolve with changes in work practices, technology, and regulations, ultimately reducing risk and promoting a culture of safety.

With Sherm Software, Safe Work Method Statements are available in the Documentation module for workers to access anytime with Sherm’s Mobile App. Retraining of new or updated SWMS for workers is made easy with the Training and Competency module and can be scheduled for workers to complete anytime with Sherm’s Mobile App or Web App. Notifications are sent when training has been completed so employers can ensure relevant SWMS have been read and understood.

What are Health and Safety Representatives?

Posted on 06/12/202406/12/2024 by Caroline Kingston

Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs)

Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) are individuals elected by workers in a workplace to represent their interests in matters relating to health, safety, and welfare. Their role is a key part of occupational health and safety (OHS) systems in workplaces where there are legal frameworks in place to ensure worker safety and engagement in safety practices.

Key Responsibilities of HSRs:

Represent Workers: They act as a liaison between workers and management on matters related to health, safety, and welfare.
Identify Hazards: They work with employees to identify potential health and safety risks in the workplace.
Raise Issues: If hazards or safety concerns arise, HSRs can raise these issues with management or relevant authorities to address them.
Participate in Safety Inspections: They may participate in regular workplace safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments.
Promote Safety Culture: HSRs help create a workplace culture that prioritises safety and health, encouraging workers to follow safe practices.
Training and Education: They often help educate and train fellow workers on health and safety protocols and best practices.
Consultation and Investigation: HSRs are consulted about proposed changes to work processes or environments that could impact worker health and safety.

HSRs is defined under workplace health and safety legislation. Workers can elect HSRs, and the employer must consult with them about safety matters. HSRs have certain powers, including the ability to issue provisional improvement notices (PINs) or stop unsafe work if a serious risk to health and safety exists.

WHS Entry Permit Holders

WHS Entry Permit Holders are individuals, usually from trade unions or health and safety organisations, who are authorised to enter a workplace to investigate health and safety issues.

Key Responsibilities of WHS Entry Permit Holders:

Investigate Health and Safety Issues: They can enter workplaces to investigate safety concerns raised by workers or reported issues regarding workplace health and safety.
Inspect Workplaces: They are authorised to inspect work sites to ensure compliance with WHS regulations, looking for potential hazards and unsafe practices.
Issue Notices: WHS Entry Permit Holders can issue notices, such as Provisional Improvement Notices (PINs) or even direct a work stoppage if they believe there is an immediate threat to workers’ health and safety.
Consult with Workers and Employers: They may consult with employees to gather information about hazards and health concerns and then raise these concerns with management.
Advocate for Workers: Often, these individuals represent trade unions or other worker organisations, advocating for better safety practices and conditions.

WHS Entry Permit Holder must hold an official permit ensuring they meet specific qualifications to perform this role. The purpose of WHS Entry Permit Holders is to ensure that workers’ safety is monitored and protected, especially in situations where there may be reluctance from employers to address safety concerns.

Both HSRs and WHS Entry Permit Holder roles are vital to ensuring safe work environments and fostering collaboration between workers, employers, and regulatory bodies in maintaining workplace health and safety standards.

Important changes for HSRs and WHS Entry Permit Holders

On 29 November 2024, important workplace health and safety changes commenced for Queensland’s HSRs and WHS Entry Permit Holders. The following changes have immediate effect:

Ceasing unsafe work

Health and safety representatives are now required to issue notices to cease unsafe work directly to workers, and not to a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU).

When directing workers to cease unsafe work, health and safety representatives are still required to:

first consult with the PCBU to attempt to resolve the health and safety issue, unless it’s unreasonable to conduct consultation because of the serious and immediate nature of the risk
prepare compliant written cease work notices
post the notices in a prominent place for all workers to see, and
provide a copy of the cease work notice to the PCBU.

Right of entry

WHS entry permit holders inquiring into a suspected contravention will be required to provide at least 24 hours’ notice to exercise their right of entry to a workplace, unless there is an immediate or imminent risk to the health and safety of a worker.

Guidance and support

The Office of Industrial Relations (OIR) will develop material to support Queensland workers and businesses understand these changes, including guidance on use of the amended right of entry requirements.

The first of this guidance will be made available on the WorkSafe website by the end of 2024. OIR will consult with industry and unions in early 2025 to identify any further practical elements of the right of entry requirements that would benefit from more explanation, and this will inform the development of more detailed guidance.

Sherm Software is the perfect tool to assist your HSR to fulfil their responsibilities. With the use of Workplace Inspections, Issues Management, Incident Management and Hazard Reporting Modules, identifying potential health and safety risks in the workplace is easily managed.

End of Year Staff Function

Posted on 02/12/2024 by Caroline Kingston

It’s that time of the year again

Everyone is ready to let their hair down at your end of year staff function, it’s well deserved of course after working tirelessly throughout the year. Just remember, you owe a duty of care to your workers and other guests at work functions.

Keep it simple with Sherm HSEQ Management System Software

Give your workers a refresher on relevant company policies and procedures prior to your work function, for example Drugs and Alcohol and Sexual Harassment, and remind workers that disciplinary action can be taken for any breaches of these policies and procedures. Sherm Software has all company documentation available at anytime, anywhere to all of your workers so it’s as easy as sending out a notification through Sherm to brush up on company policies and procedures.

Schedule training for workers through Sherm and you can be sure your obligations have been met

Schedule training on company policies for workers through Sherm Software and you will be notified of their attendance, ensuring everybody is aware of their obligations.