Mandatory training of apprentices
Every worker must have the appropriate training to allow them to perform their job safely. Apprentices are entitled to the same rights and benefits at work as any other worker under the Work Health and Safety ACT (2011).
Most concerningly, WorkSafe ACT is aware of apprentices being directed to undertake construction work without having successfully completed, or being enrolled in, mandatory training courses.
Mandatory training of apprentices
The required training is outlined below, this training is mandatory:
Training | Details | Required by |
General Construction Induction Card (White Card) | General Construction Induction Training must be completed through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Upon completion of this training, the participant will receive the General Construction Induction Card, otherwise known as a White Card. A person conducting a business or undertaking (employer) must keep a record of this training and workers should be able to present the card upon request. Note: If the apprentice has applied for a White Card but has not received it, a general construction induction training certification can suffice. This only applies if the certificate has been issued within the preceding 60 days. | Any worker on a construction site. For more information, visit the Building and Construction Induction section of our website. |
Asbestos Awareness Training | Asbestos Awareness Training is mandated for workers who may be exposed to asbestos. This training must be provided by an RTO and completed after 1 January 2008. Workers are required to provide evidence of receiving this training, including an Asbestos Awareness Training Card or Statement of Attainment. Employers must keep a record of this training. | Detail on who requires this training can be found on the Asbestos Awareness Training section of our website. |
Working Safely with Asbestos Containing Materials (WSWACM) | Workers who are likely to encounter materials that contain asbestos, must complete Working Safely with Asbestos Containing Materials (WSWACM) training through an RTO. Employers must keep a record stating their workers have completed this training and this record must be kept for five (5) years after the day the worker ceases working for their business. | A list of occupations who require this training can be found on the WSWACM section of our website. |
Silica Awareness Training
By 1 October 2023, all workers on a construction site will be required to complete Silica Awareness Training. For more information, see our Silica Dust webpage.
Enforcement
WorkSafe ACT is committed to firm and fair enforcement of the Work Health and Safety legislation. We collaborate with external stakeholders to ensure the safety of apprentices and gather intelligence on breaches of the Work Health and Safety legislation. Our inspectors are conducting workplace visits and investigating reports of non-compliance for workplace induction training.
White Card training
If an employer does not ensure the construction induction (White Card) training has been provided to workers who are engaged to carry out construction work, they could face an on the spot fine (infringement penalty) of $432 for an individual and $2,160 for a body corporate.
Offence penalties of up to $3,600 as an individual, or $18,000 as a body corporate also apply.
Asbestos awareness training
If an employer does not ensure the training has been provided to workers who require this training, they could face a penalty of $6,000 as an individual or $30,000 in the case of a body corporate.
Working Safely with asbestos training
If an employer does not ensure the training has been provided to workers who require this training, they could face a penalty of $6,000 as an individual or $30,000 in the case of a body corporate.
Where to go for help
PCBUs can call WorkSafe ACT on 13 22 81, after hours on 0419 120 028 or email at worksafe@act.gov.au to notify us of an incident. Notification can also be made using the online form available on the WorkSafe ACT website.
If you are an apprentice who has a concern about inductions and supervision, an anonymous report can be submitted to WorkSafe ACT at Report a workplace concern or issue.
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