Changes to the WorkSafe High Risk Work licences

From July 1 2010, WorkSafe Victoria will adopt the National Standard for licensing Person Performing High Risk Work (National Standard). The National Standard requires the trainees to complete a recognised course of training before being assesed for a high risk licence.

The main affect on all future applicants (which will have a flow on affect to employers) is that they now will be required by law to undertake a specified training program over a specified period of time, by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) prior to undergoing a WorkSafe assessment of their skills and knowledge.

Currently trainees only require an assessment of their skills and knowledge and in some instances this can be achieved in 1 day. As of July 1 2010 there are regulated requirements for trainees to fulfil a minimum of nominal 40 hours training, prior to assessment. Thus resulting in a possible 1-3 day course becoming anywhere from 3-10 days, depending on the structure of the training and the type of high risk work licence being assessed. The longer the course, the longer the applicant will be away from your business and the more it will cost. This will have a significant impact on both productivity and expenses to your business.

As of July 1, 2010 Registered Training Organisations will take over all WorkSafe High Risk Work Licences. This means that some current providers of High Risk Work licences will not be able to conduct High Risk Work Assessments unless they are an RTO from this date.

To find out more, go to WorkSafe Victoria