WorkSafe probes high-risk training that lacked validity in Northern Territory

WorkSafe Probes High-Risk Training That Lacked Validity in Northern Territory

NT WorkSafe has issued caution to both businesses and employees, urging them to verify credentials of assessors prior to making payments for high-risk work licence training. Northern Territory workers pursuing a high risk work licence should confirm assessor accreditation before enrolling in any course.

The warning follows discovery by the workplace safety regulator of cases in which two assessors of high-risk work licences from other states provided training without necessary accreditation in Northern Territory, as stipulated by Regulation 113 of the Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations 2011.

Why Licence Verification Matters for Construction and Manufacturing Workers

Construction sites and manufacturing facilities rely heavily on properly licensed operators to maintain safety standards. Without valid credentials, an assessment carries no legal weight, leaving workers exposed to compliance gaps and employers vulnerable to enforcement action.

NT WorkSafe's Manager for Licensing and Advisory Services, Ms Lisa Taylor, said individuals can access a list of accredited high-risk licence assessors for Northern Territory on the NT WorkSafe website, making it straightforward to locate an appropriate assessor for their required licence.

"Northern Territory accredited assessors have access to Northern Territory Government Assessment Report Books," Ms Taylor explained.

"Workers who successfully complete training will be given an Assessment Report which is valid for 60 days. This then needs to be submitted along with an application to apply for a high-risk licence," Ms Taylor said.

Strengthening Safety Management Across High-Risk Industries

This investigation highlights a broader challenge facing safety management systems across Australia: ensuring compliance frameworks keep pace with training providers operating across state borders. Robust management practices depend on accurate verification processes at every stage, from initial course enrolment through to final licensing.

Businesses managing risk work activities should treat credential checks as a core part of workplace health and safety management, not an afterthought. A documented high risk and incidents management plan can help organisations track assessor credentials, training records, and licence renewal timelines.

Beyond licensing compliance, employers should also consider psychosocial hazards present within high-risk work environments. Fatigue, pressure to complete rushed training, and uncertainty around licence validity can all contribute to psychosocial strain among workers, compounding existing safety hazards on site.

What Businesses and Workers Should Do

• Confirm assessor accreditation via the NT WorkSafe website before booking training
• Retain copies of Assessment Reports and submit licence applications within the 60-day validity window
• Incorporate credential verification into broader safety management documentation
• Review training policies and procedures regularly to reflect current regulatory requirements

Construction companies operating in Northern Territory should also review their high-risk construction work policy to ensure training verification steps are clearly documented and enforced across all sites.

NT WorkSafe's intervention serves as a reminder that health and safety compliance extends beyond the classroom. Sound management of licensing pathways protects both individual workers and the broader construction and manufacturing sectors from unnecessary risk work exposure. For further guidance on structuring a high risk work plan, organisations can consult SafetyDocs resources tailored to Australian workplace requirements.

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