The Work Health & Safety Act was introduced by the Australian Government in 2011, superseding existing legislation, and marking it easier for workers to operate different kinds of plant equipment in a safe and responsible manner.
While a licence or certification is not required to operate a scissor lift or boom lift under 11m, this doesn't mean an operator can just hop on and start work. SafeWork Australia has set out guidelines for the operation of plant equipment, with a focus on 'Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU)s (that's the employer) providing the required instruction, training and supervision to perform their work safely.
Completion of these units of competency ensures that an operator can demonstrate competency, currency and safe operation for the PCBU
A person conducting a business or undertaking has the primary duty under the WHS Act to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that workers and other persons are not exposed to health and safety risks arising from the business or undertaking. This duty includes ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable:
- The provision and maintenance of safe plant, and
- The safe use, handling, storage and transport of plant
The PCBU must ensure that:
- Operators receive adequate information, training, instruction and supervision.
- Operators are competent.
- Equipment is used appropriately to minimise risks to health and safety.
And that operators are aware:
- How to operate the equipment, including the correct use of control measures.
- Who else is authorised to use the equipment.
- Maintenance requirements including safe shutdown, inspection, clean and repair.
The PCBU on your job site may look for the following when assessing your eligibility to operate plant:
- Logbooks for work-based training conducted by an operator skilled and experienced in the operation of the same type of equipment.
- A previously issued certificate under the Workplace Health & Safety Regulation 2008.
- A statement of attainment for a National Unit of Competency
If you lack the appropriate training or work history you can not operate plant.
RIIHAN301E - Operate elevating work platform
This unit describes a participant’s skills and knowledge required to operate an elevating work platform in the Resources and Infrastructure Industries.
This unit is appropriate for those working in operational roles.
Licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements that apply to this unit can vary between states, territories and Industry sectors. Relevant information must be sourced prior to application of the unit.