Many occupations in Australia are considered high risk and, as such, require workers to obtain a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) before commencing employment.
This blog post will provide a detailed guide for those looking into obtaining their HRWL on what they can expect in terms of formal training, informal learning, and the duties of licence holders.
High Risk Work Licence Holders: Duties and Responsibilities
If you hold a high risk work licence in Australia, you have been deemed competent to perform specified high risk work tasks. With this competence comes great responsibility.
As a high risk work licence holder, you are responsible for ensuring that all high risk work is carried out in accordance with relevant legislation, standards and guidelines. You must also ensure that you comply with any reasonable directions or instructions given to you by your employer or an authorised person.
You must not carry out high risk work unless you hold the appropriate class of licence for the type of plant or vehicle to be used or the classified area in which the work is to be carried out. For example, you cannot operate a crane unless you hold a crane licence.
You must use, handle or store plants, substances or explosives in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions or other relevant instructions. You must also take reasonable care for your own health and safety and that of other persons who may be affected by your acts or omissions at work.
When You Don’t Need a High Risk Work Licence
Most high risk work in Australia does require a valid HRWL, but there are some exceptions. If you’re unsure whether or not you need an HRWL for a particular job, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get one before starting work.
When the Job Can Be Done Without Using Any Special Equipment
If you’re working with your bare hands or regular tools that don’t require a HRWL to operate, then you likely won’t need a HRWL for the job. This includes tasks like painting, cleaning, and general maintenance.
When You’re Working Under Close Supervision
If you have a supervisor who is closely monitoring your work and is able to intervene if necessary, then you may not need a HRWL. This is often the case with apprentices or trainees who are learning how to do a task under the guidance of an experienced worker.
When the Task Poses Minimal Risk
Some tasks are technically considered “high risk work” but pose a minimal risk if proper safety procedures are followed. In these cases, you may not need a HRWL if you follow the correct safety protocols. For example, working with ladders or scaffolding less than three metres off the ground doesn’t require a HRWL.
Getting a High Risk Work Licences to Perform High Risk Work
Workers in high risk industries are exposed to serious risks that could lead to injury, death, or property damage. If you want to work in a high risk industry, you’ll need to get a HRW licence. To get your HRW licence, you must complete formal training with a registered training organisation (RTO) and informal learning in the workplace. Once your application has been processed, you’ll be issued your HRW licence.
Step 1: Complete Formal Training with an RTO
The first step to getting your HRW licence is to complete formal training with an RTO. Classroom training is the best way to learn the skills and knowledge necessary to work safely in a high risk environment. When choosing an RTO, ensure they are approved to deliver the particular course you need.
Step 2: Informal Learning in the Workplace
In addition to formal training, you’ll also need to complete informal learning in the workplace. Informal learning is a great way to supplement your formal training and gain real-world experience. It can include shadowing a supervisor with the relevant HRW licence or completing online courses.
Step 3: Apply for Your Licence
After you’ve completed both formal and informal training, you’ll be ready to apply for your HRW licence. The application process varies depending on which state or territory you’re in, but generally, you’ll need to submit proof of your identity and proof of completion of training, and a completed application form. Once your application is processed, you’ll be issued your HRW licence.
Renewing your High Risk Work Licence
Once you’ve been issued a high risk work licence, it’s important to keep it up to date. Depending on the state or territory you live in, your licence may need to be renewed every one to five years. The renewal process may vary slightly from state to state, but generally speaking, you’ll need to complete an application form and submit it to the regulator in your jurisdiction, along with any relevant supporting documentation. You may also be required to undergo a medical assessment and/or complete a refresher training course.
Why You Need to Renew Your Licence
There are a few reasons why it’s important to renew your high risk work licence when it expires.
- Firstly, it’s a legal requirement. You could face significant fines if you’re caught working without a valid licence.
- Secondly, completing the renewal process ensures that you remain up-to-date with any changes in legislation or industry best practices.
- And finally, depending on the type of licence you hold, renewing it may be a prerequisite for maintaining your insurance coverage.
Tips for Renewing Your Licence
The best way to avoid any problems when renewing your high risk work licence is to start the process early. Depending on the state or territory you live in, you may be able to renew your licence up to three months before it expires. This will give you plenty of time to gather all of the necessary documentation and complete any mandatory training courses.
It’s also a good idea to check with your employer to see if they have any specific requirements for renewing your licence (e.g. they may need a copy of your renewed certificate for their records).
What You Need to Know About Working in Another State or Territory as a High Risk Work Licence Holder
If you’re a high risk work licence holder, there may come a time when you need to work in another state or territory. Whether for a short-term project or a longer-term job, it’s important to know the ins and outs of working in another jurisdiction.
Working in Another State or Territory: The Basics
If you’re planning on working in another state or territory, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Make sure you know the requirements of the jurisdiction you’re planning on working in and that your licence is recognised before beginning any job.
- First and foremost, you need to ensure that your high risk work licence is recognised in the jurisdiction you’re planning on working in. Each state and territory has its own licensing requirements, so it’s important to do your research beforehand. In most cases, you’ll be able to transfer your high risk work licence from one jurisdiction to another without any problems. However, there are some instances where you may need to complete additional training before your licence is recognised.
- It’s also important to note that the requirements for high risk work licences vary from state to state. This means that even if your licence is still current in your home state or territory, it may not be recognised as such in the jurisdiction you’re planning on working in. For example, if you’re moving from one state to another, you may need to renew your licence every three years instead of every five years.
- Finally, it’s worth mentioning that each state and territory has its own penalties and fines for working without a valid high risk work licence. Not only could you be fined heavily, but you could also put yourself and others at risk of serious injury or death.
Final Thoughts
Workers in many occupations in Australia are required by law to obtain a High Risk Work Licence before commencing employment. The process for getting your HRWL involves formal training with a registered training organisation as well as informal learning, such as workplace training with a supervisor who already holds the relevant HRW licence.
Once you have your licence, there are certain duties that you are required to perform as well as conditions that must be met in order to keep your licence valid. If you’re interested in obtaining your HRWL, get in touch with KI Group today!
About KI Group – Registered Training Organisation
KI Training and Assessing offers a wide selection of nationally accredited high risk work licence courses at our state of the art Perth training facility. Courses include dogging, rigging, scaffolding, forklift operation, elevated work platforms (EWP) and several crane operating courses. Upon successfully completing their High Risk licence training, participants can work in the mining, civil and industrial sectors.