The Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme (The Scheme) operates such that, subject to certain
thresholds, only head contractors who are accredited under the Scheme can enter into contracts for building work that is funded directly or indirectly by the Australian Government.
The Scheme enables the government to use its influence as a client and provider of capital to improve the construction industry’s OHS performance. The Australian Government aims to promote the idea that work must be performed safely as well as on budget and on time.
Scheme criteria
Achieving accreditation is a two-stage assessment process comprising a desktop assessment and on-site audit.
Applicants must satisfy the following criteria to obtain accreditation.
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, alternatively, 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 successful completion of the desktop assessment, an initial on-site audit will be arranged.
The FSO 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 FSC will make the final decision on accreditation taking into account the findings of both the desktop assessment and the on-site audit. If you would like more information please visit the Fact Sheets page.
Related Links
Scheme Overview
Scheme Thresholds
Key Dates
Accreditation Register
Apply for Accreditation
Federal Safety Officers