15 Dec Understanding Your WHS Responsibilities in Labour Hire Arrangements

Labour Hire WHS Responsibilities

In the ever-evolving world of labour hire, understanding your responsibilities under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act is crucial for both the labour hire agency and the host organisation. Safe Work Australia’s ‘Know Your Duties’ tool is an essential resource for navigating these responsibilities. Let’s delve into what this means for Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) in the realm of labour hire.

The Dual Responsibility of PCBUs

Host PCBUs and Labour Hire PCBUs: In labour hire scenarios, both the labour hire agency (the labour hire PCBU) and the host organisation (the host PCBU) are considered PCBUs. They share the responsibility for the health and safety of labour hire workers. It’s important to note that these duties cannot be contracted out or transferred to another party.

Key PCBU Duties and Cooperation

• Risk Management: Both PCBUs must work together to eliminate or minimise risks to the health and safety of labour hire workers as far as is reasonably practicable.
• Safe Work Environment: The host PCBU must ensure the workplace is safe and without risks to health. This includes providing adequate facilities, first aid, and implementing emergency plans. The labour hire PCBU must verify that these conditions are met.
• Training and Induction: Labour hire workers must receive proper information, instruction, training, and supervision. This encompasses necessary qualifications, experience, and safety inductions outlining WHS policies and practices.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Suitable PPE should be provided, along with training on its use, storage, and maintenance.
• Incident Reporting: Agreed processes should be in place for informing the WHS regulator of notifiable incidents.
• Worker Consultation: Both PCBUs must consult with workers on decisions affecting their health and safety and ensure they understand the process of reporting hazards or incidents.
• Workplace Monitoring: Regular monitoring and reviewing of workplace conditions and health and safety practices are essential, with proactive management of any new hazards.
• Workers’ Compensation: Typically, the labour hire PCBU provides workers’ compensation. However, both PCBUs should coordinate on return-to-work arrangements and support workers through this process. It’s crucial to understand your workers’ compensation obligations, as penalties may apply for non-compliance.

Working Together for Safety

It’s clear that in labour hire arrangements, safety is a shared responsibility. Both the labour hire and host PCBUs play pivotal roles in ensuring a safe working environment. It’s about cooperation, coordination, and a commitment to upholding the highest safety standards.

For more detailed information and to explore the ‘Know Your Duties’ tool, visit Safe Work Australia’s website. Your proactive approach to WHS responsibilities not only ensures compliance but also fosters a culture of safety and care in the workplace.

To learn more about how we can contribute to the success and safety of your 2024 projects, give us a call on (02) 8985 2019, email info@hlhgroup.com.au or contact us online. Let’s work together for a productive, safe and successful 2024.