Changes to licence requirements for loadshifting machines

WorkCover NSW has issued a reminder to operators of loadshifting machines that changes to existing licensing arrangements come into effect from the end of the month. From 30 September 2011, operators will no longer need a certificate of competency to operate some loadshifting equipment, said Peter Dunphy, Acting General Manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division.

“The change comes as part of the new workplace safety laws that start on 1 January 2012 that require all jurisdictions to harmonise their individual work health and safety laws to ensure consistent application and detail across the states and territories,” said Dunphy. “The transition to nationally consistent workplace safety laws will change licensing arrangements in New South Wales for loadshifting machines,” he said.

The changes apply to:

• Front end loader (class LL)
• Front end loader/backhoe (class LB)
• Front end loader of the skid steer type (class LS)
• Excavator (class LE)

“Training and supervision remains pivotal to the safe operation of the plant,” said Dunphy. “Under the new arrangements employers (or controllers of the plant) must ensure that operators can do their job safely and have received adequate information, instruction, training and supervision, and are competent to operate the plant safely.

“The controller of the loadshifting machine must ensure that any hazards are identified, assessed and controlled, and that others are advised of the hazards and control measures,” he said.

To determine an operator’s competency level and the amount of instruction and supervision required, employers (or controllers of the plant) should take into account: operator training, skills and experience; complexity of tasks and risks associated with the tasks; and, conditions on the worksite. Dunphy said ongoing training should be provided to maintain the operator’s competency level and be regularly reviewed to identify the hazards associated with the plant, the specific tasks and the workplace. “The harmonisation of work, health and safety laws will lower compliance costs and red tape for employers while maintaining a robust work, health and safety framework in NSW,” he said.

Detailed guidance material is available from workcover.nsw.gov.au or call 13 10 50 for further information on licensing arrangements in NSW.