WorkSafe investigates fake certificate risks

Through intelligence sharing with other agencies, WorkSafe has been notified of a number of individuals allegedly seeking to obtain fraudulent qualification certificates, which may have been used to demonstrate competencies they do not have.

These types of qualifications are not a legal requirement under Victorian occupational health and safety laws and are separate to high-risk work licences (HRWL) issued and regulated by WorkSafe.

Fraudulent qualifications could pose a health and safety risk if a duty holder relies on them as evidence of skills in a particular area – such as first aid, implementing traffic management plans or working safely at heights – that they do not actually have.

WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin said the information was being carefully considered to identify and act on any potential breaches within WorkSafe’s jurisdiction.

“WorkSafe will take compliance or enforcement action against anyone who puts their co-workers or others in a workplace at risk by working in an area they have knowingly and fraudulently obtained false qualifications for,” Mr Jenkin said.

“While WorkSafe is limited in the legal action it can take in relation to this type of fraud, our intelligence experts are actively investigating those individuals alleged to have obtained fake certificates to identify and address potential safety risks in Victorian workplaces.”

Under section 25 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, an employee must take reasonable care for their own safety and anyone else who may be affected by their acts or omissions in a workplace.

Mr Jenkin said the fake qualification certificates couldn’t be used to obtain WorkSafe licences, however any HRWL holders identified in connection with the alleged fraud would be audited.

“WorkSafe’s licensing regime has strong internal safeguards and accountability through the use of accredited trainers and assessors, along with regular auditing and checks and balances to ensure training has been completed and assessed,” Mr Jenkin said.

“We’re continuing to analyse the information provided and work closely with Victoria Police and other national and state authorities to share information so that they can respond and take action appropriately.”

WorkSafe has issued a safety alert reminding employers to ensure that all employees have the suitable training and competency to work safely, including verifying employee qualifications with the relevant Registered Training Operator.

Suspected fraudulent activity in relation to qualifications should be reported to Victoria Police.