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Hazards

Licences

The VTHC OHS Unit often gets enquiries from workers and members of the public regarding what are the particular requirements when it comes to operating certain pieces of equipment.

The law requires you to obtain a licence from WorkSafe before undertaking certain workplace activities. You must be licensed to perform any of the following types of work:

  • High risk work (e.g. scaffolding and rigging, operating cranes and forklifts, and using boilers and other pressure equipment).  See the OHS Regulations (2007) Part 3.6 - High Risk Work for more information.
  • removing specific types and amounts of asbestos
  • operating a major hazard facility
  • using scheduled carcinogens
  • transporting dangerous goods
  • using dangerous goods that pose a security concern (High Consequence Dangerous Goods)
  • transporting, storing, selling, manufacturing or importing explosives or fireworks
  • using explosives or discharging fireworks
 
WorkSafe Victoria is responsible for the processing and issue of licences, registrations, notifications and authorisations through its Licensing Branch.   The Licensing Branch can be contacted on 1300 852 562. Alternatively, you can go to the Licensing and Registrations webpage on the WorkCover Victoria website to get more information on any of the above.  The webpage contains comprehensive information on:
  • Licences to perform 'high risk work'
  • whether licences are required, types of licences and how to apply
  • legal duties
  • Registration of plant and plant designs 

This is a quick and easy way of finding what you need to know about certificates of competency, registrations, and notifications required in Victoria for people designing, operating or using certain types of high-risk plant.  WorkSafe documents, including guidance material application forms, can also be accessed here.

Current licence holders:

WorkSafe has produced a series of frequently asked questions (FAQ pdf) for holders of existing certificate of competency holders. This follows the introduction of the OHS regulations in July 2007.  In Victoria, all certificates will progressively expire over a five-year transition period starting 31 January 2008. By 30 June 2012, all certificates of competency will have expired.

January 2008