Requirements

The Scheme sets a high benchmark and some applicants may need several months to reach the OHS standards required for accreditation. Accreditation is valid for a period of up to three years from the date of accreditation.

Achieving accreditation is a two-stage assessment process comprising a desktop assessment and on-site audit. Evidence of an OHS management system certified to Australian Standard AS/NZS 4801 Occupational health and safety management systems – Specifications with guidance for use or, alternatively, certified to OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems – Specifications is a prerequisite.

Applicants must satisfy the following criteria to obtain accreditation:

Desktop assessment:

1. Evidence of an OHS management system (OHSMS).
   This needs to be certified to Australian Standard AS/NZS 4801:2001 Occupational health and safety management systems – Specifications with guidance for use or certified to OHSAS 18001:1999 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems – Specifications.
   Certification needs to be undertaken by a Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand (JAS-ANZ) accredited certification body.
2. Demonstrated ability to manage construction hazards and high risk activities.
3. Record in relation to workplace safety.
4. On-site audit results.
5. Performance against the following focus points:
   
   i) demonstrated senior management commitment to OHS;
   ii) integration of safe design principles into the risk management process;
   iii) whole of project OHS consultation and communication;
   iv) demonstrated effective subcontractor OHS management arrangements across building and construction projects;
   v) whole of project performance measurement; and
   vi) OHS training and competency to deal with safety risks.

On-site audit(s):

On successful completion of the desktop assessment, an on-site audit is arranged. The Federal Safety Officer conducting the audit may request documentary evidence in accordance with the criteria to verify the implementation of OHS procedures and practices on site. This process is separate to the initial documentary evidence review carried out at the desktop assessment stage.

The Federal Safety Commissioner will make the final decision on accreditation taking into account the findings of both the desktop assessment and the on-site audit.

Apply for accreditation