HSR (Health and Safety Representative)
An HSR is an elected worker representative on a construction site with powers to inspect, raise safety concerns, and in some states direct unsafe work to stop.
Ask Chalkline about this →A Health and Safety Representative (HSR) is a worker elected by their designated work group to represent them on OHS or WHS matters. HSRs have statutory powers to inspect the workplace, accompany inspectors, request documents, and raise safety issues with the PCBU (or “employer” in Victoria). Under the harmonised WHS laws, an HSR can also issue a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) and, in some circumstances, direct unsafe work to cease (verified 2026-05-10).
On a construction site, the HSR is the elected safety voice for a defined group of workers, such as all concreters on site or all trades on a specific building. The HSR does not carry personal liability for safety outcomes but is a formal channel between workers and management.
Victoria: HSRs in Victoria are elected under Part 7 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic). Victorian HSRs do not hold a right to direct work cessation individually; that power sits with the HSR exercising the Provisional Improvement Notice mechanism. See WorkSafe Victoria: OHS Act 2004.
Also known as: Health and Safety Representative, health and safety rep.
Category: Health and safety.
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Last updated: 2026-05-10. Verified: 2026-05-10. Quarterly review for currency.