WHS training in construction

1. General Construction Induction Training (White Card)

This is the foundation of construction safety and is mandatory training for anyone working on a construction site anywhere in Australia. It’s officially known as “Prepare to work safely in the construction industry” (CPCWHS1001) and is delivered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). It covers basic WHS principles, common hazards, risk control measures, and emergency procedures. You can’t set foot on a site without one.

2. Company Inductions

Once a worker starts with a new construction company, they’ll typically undergo a general company induction. This covers the company’s specific WHS policies, procedures, reporting lines, and overall safety management system. It ensures the worker understands how WHS operates within that particular business.

3. Site-Specific Inductions

Before commencing work on any new construction site, every worker, including sub-contractors and visitors, must complete a site-specific induction. These are crucial as they detail the unique hazards, emergency procedures, site rules, specific plant and equipment, and any current risks relevant to that particular project.

4. High-Risk Work (HRW) Licences

For specific high-risk activities, workers need to undertake specialised training and obtain a High-Risk Work Licence from the state WHS regulator (e.g., SafeWork NSW). This includes activities like:

• Operating forklifts
• Scaffolding (various classes)
• Dogging and rigging
• Operating cranes and elevating work platforms (EWPs) over 11m
• Pressure equipment operation

5. Task-Specific Training

Beyond general inductions and HRW licences, workers receive training specific to the tasks they perform. This can include:

• Working at Heights: Training on fall prevention, harness use, and rescue plans.
• Confined Space Entry: Safe entry procedures, gas testing, rescue. 
• Asbestos Awareness/Removal: Identifying and safely managing asbestos-containing materials.
• Hazardous Chemicals: Safe handling, storage, and spill procedures for substances like silica dust, chemicals, etc.
• First Aid and CPR: Essential for emergency response on site. 
• Manual Handling: Correct techniques to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. 
• Traffic Management: For those involved in controlling vehicle and pedestrian movement.

6. Toolbox Talks

These short, regular, and informal sessions are vital for ongoing WHS education. They keep safety relevant and top-of-mind, addressing daily hazards, changes in conditions, or reinforcing specific safe work practices. Read more about Toolbox Talks here.

7. Formal Qualifications (Certificates/Diplomas)

For those looking to move into WHS management roles (e.g., Safety Officers, WHS Coordinators), there are nationally recognised qualifications like:

• Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety
• Diploma of Work Health and Safety These provide a deeper understanding of WHS legislation, risk management systems, incident investigation, and WHS leadership.

8. Health and Safety Representative (HSR) Training

Elected HSRs are legally entitled to attend accredited training courses (a 5-day initial course and annual refreshers) to effectively represent their workgroup’s WHS interests and consult with management.

9. Online and Refresher Courses

Many RTOs and industry associations offer online modules or refresher courses for various WHS topics, allowing professionals to update their knowledge and maintain compliance.

Essentially, WHS training in construction in Australia is a continuous process, starting with the mandatory White Card and extending through various levels of specialised, ongoing, and formal education to ensure a safe work environment.