S26 Statutory Supervisor FAQs

The Schedule 26 Statutory Supervisor Course is essential for individuals aiming to fulfill statutory supervisor roles within Western Australia’s mining industry. Below is a comprehensive list of commonly asked questions and their answers regarding this course:

1. What is the Schedule 26 Statutory Supervisor Course? The Schedule 26 Statutory Supervisor Course is designed to meet the requirements set out in Schedule 26 of the Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2022 (WA). It equips participants with the necessary Work Health and Safety (WHS) risk management skills and knowledge required for statutory supervisor positions in the mining sector.

2. Who is required to complete this course? Individuals appointed to statutory supervisor positions in Western Australian mines, such as underground supervisors, restricted quarry managers, mine air quality officers, noise officers, and electrical supervisors, are required to complete this course to comply with WHS regulations.

3. What are the key components of the course? The course typically covers two units of competency:

• BSBWHS411 – Implement and monitor WHS policies, procedures, and programs.
• BSBWHS414 – Contribute to WHS risk management.
• Some employers may also require RIIBEF402D – Supervise on-site operations, especially for certain mining companies.

4. How is the course delivered? The course can be delivered through various methods, including:

• Online (E-learning): Allows participants to start immediately and complete the course at their own pace.
• Face-to-Face (Classroom): Conducted in training facilities or on-site at workplaces.
• Virtual (Video Conferencing): Interactive sessions conducted via platforms like Zoom.

5. What are the eligibility requirements for appointment as a statutory supervisor? To be eligible for appointment as a statutory supervisor, an individual must:

• Have at least two years of experience working as a supervisor or worker in a similar operation or industry.
• Successfully complete an approved WHS risk management unit for statutory supervisors.
• Pass the applicable legislation examination for statutory supervisors.

6. Does Schedule 26 replace Section 44? Yes, Schedule 26 replaces Section 44, which outlined requirements under the now-superseded Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994. The current requirements are specified under the Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2022.

7. What is the deadline for compliance with Schedule 26 requirements? Under transitional arrangements, a competent person can be appointed to the statutory supervisor position until March 20, 2026. After this date, appointed individuals must meet the full eligibility criteria specified in Schedule 26.

8. How can I prepare for the DMIRS legislation examination? After completing the required units of competency, candidates should prepare for the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) legislation examination. Some training providers offer exam preparation courses to assist candidates in understanding and navigating the WHS (Mines) Regulations 2022 and the WHS Act 2020.

9. Is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available for this course? Yes, some training providers offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) pathways, allowing individuals to have their existing skills and experience assessed against the course requirements. This can potentially reduce the time and coursework needed to complete the certification.

10. Are there additional units required by certain mining companies? Yes, some mining companies, such as BHP, may require the completion of additional units like RIIBEF402D – Supervise on-site operations. It’s advisable to check with your employer or training coordinator to determine if this applies to your situation