The VFFA received an email from a member, suggesting that the HSR program for volunteers has not been properly addressed by the NSW RFS.
The RFS has published the following key HSR election dates:
12 September to 8 October 2018 – Notice of Election sent to members and HSR nominations open
5 November 2018 – Ballot papers posted to members
10 December 2018 – Voting closes at 12:00pm
31 January 2019 – Results of HSR elections announced by this date
1 March 2019 – Elected HSRs commence their three year term
The VFFA is concerned that the period (12 September to 8 October 2018) is insufficient time to properly advertise this important program to all volunteers across the state.
The RFS is seeking to fill 47 HRS positions for NSW.
The VFFA is concerned that 47 HSR’s across the state is simply a compliance exercise designed to appease the legislation and SafeWork NSW is allowing it.
FRNSW have over 100 HSR’s for their 22,000 membership.
The RFS claims to have over 70,000 volunteers. Even at a more realistic figure of 20,000 volunteers fighting fires, the number of HSR’s should be greater than 47.
The RFS claims to have 47 work places (Districts). The VFFA does not feel that 47 work places is an accurate representation of actual work places within this diverse organisation.
Do you want to help make your fire fighting workplace a safer, healthier and cohesive workplace?
Do you want to make a real change in your workplace in ensuring compliance to the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act)?
Become a Health and Safety Representative (HSR) and help make your workplace a safer and healthier place to be.
If there is more than one nomination for one position an election needs to take place.