Where a Company (PCBU) is engaging a contractor, both parties have a shared responsibility to ensure the health and safety of themselves and others. Because of this, consultation is key to helping both parties meet their duty of care obligations.
Contractors operating on behalf of and for the Company will need to be able to ensure that:
- a safe and healthy working environment is maintained;
- safe systems of work are adhered to;
- all plants and substances are maintained in a safe condition.
Contractors should be provided with a letter prior to commencing work to outline the WHS requirements. This letter will include the requirement for the Contractor to provide the following:
- Copy of the organisation’s Work Health and Safety policy.
- SWMS or JSA for the task to be provided demonstrating hazard identification and risk mitigation for the task.
- Copy of their certificate of currency for Public Liability insurance.
- Copy of their Certificate of Registration for Return to Work SA.
- Copy of relevant licenses/tickets if applicable, for example, electricians, High-risk work license (EWP, Forklift, etc), or yellow card (scissor lift competency, etc).
Companies are also advised to use a “WHS Conditions of Contract” agreement and a “Contractor Pre-Work Checklist” with any Contractors
Once the Contractor is set to commence the work, a “Contractor Induction Checklist” should be completed.
