Who Should Do the Course?
Business owners, Board members, Directors, CEOs, and Executive Officers of businesses, organisations, and corporations who want to validate, refresh, or clarify their mandatory responsibilities as Officers of a PCBU (organisation) under WHS law.
NOTE: This course is not suitable for businesses who manage operations in Victoria. Please click here for equivalent OHS Law training applicable to Victorian legislation.
AIMS
The Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act is quite explicit in making those who control a corporation’s management personally liable in the event of a breach. Recent changes in the WHS Act and prosecutions have highlighted the accountability of senior executives by requiring that Directors and Officers must acquire and keep their WHS knowledge up to date. Failing to do so exposes both the individual (Officer) and the organisation (PCBU) to substantial legal risks such as prosecution with possible penalties including fines for companies, and fines and potential imprisonment for individuals.
Courtenell’s 3-hour WHS Law course has been designed to equip Directors, Board Members, Officers, and Senior Executives with a comprehensive understanding of the WHS Legislation and provide practical tools and strategies for effective WHS governance at the executive level.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learning outcomes of this course include:
▪ An overview of the current OHS/WHS legislative framework in Australia. Enable participants to interpret and apply WHS laws within their organisations.
▪ Core Duty Holders and their responsibilities, including the distinction between the duties of an “officer” and a “manager.”
▪ Clarification of the meaning of WHS Due Diligence and PCBU Duty of Care. Practical guidance on how to discharge – and more importantly, demonstrate the discharge – of this duty.
▪ Clarification and ownership of the ongoing actions an Officer of a PCBU must do to demonstrate "due diligence" as per the 11 bulleted requirements and examples contained in Section 27 of the WHS Act.
▪ Clarify legal obligations and ensure participants are well-versed in current WHS legislation, including the PCBU's primary obligations: to provide the WHS management system, manage risks and hazards in the workplace, to consult on WHS matters, etc.
▪ Awareness of the result of failure to comply with obligations, Offences and Penalties, and what indemnities and insurance are and are not available.
▪ Recognise the important role that safety management systems play in the due diligence process.
▪ Management of continuous improvement and evaluation approaches in order to achieve statutory compliance.
BUSINESS BENEFITS
▪ Improved Safety Culture: Investing in legislative compliance training fosters a culture of safety within the organisation from the top down.
▪ Enhanced Governance: WHS Law training strengthens corporate governance by emphasizing the importance of health and safety in decision-making. This contributes to a culture of responsibility, accountability, and ethical business practices.
▪ Risk Reduction: Enhanced knowledge gained from the course enables participants to identify, assess, and mitigate potential workplace hazards, including psychosocial hazards; thereby contributing to a safer work environment.
▪ Reputational Protection: Clients, customers, and Society increasingly value safety-conscious businesses, and adherence to best practices can enhance the organisation's professional image and social responsibility.
▪ Legal Compliance: Update participants on legal obligations and responsibilities related to workplace safety. Achieving compliance with relevant WHS laws reduces the risk of legal penalties, fines, and regulatory actions, safeguarding the organisation's reputation.
MODE OF DELIVERY
▪ On-site workplace based.
▪ Virtual – Instructor led (MS TEAMS, ZOOM, etc.)
DURATION
3 Hours
TIMES
Courtenell’s on-site courses typically run between 9:00am – 4:00pm but can be delivered according to your preferences. Courtenell is flexible in providing on-site training during afternoon and night shifts, as well as on weekends (additional fees may apply).
TRAINER
All of our trainers are experienced consultants with qualifications and extensive experience across diverse industry sectors. Possessing Training and Education qualifications, our trainers are adept at tailoring their approach to meet the specific needs of the audience.
TRAINING EVALUATION AND CERTIFICATE
Through group and general discussions and case studies, participants will engage in activities to get an in-depth knowledge to proactively demonstrate due diligence responsibilities in WHS and effective WHS governance at the executive level. Participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of this course.