Labour Hire businesses and host organisations can both have responsibilities for the health and safety of on-hired workers.

The Labour Hire business will commonly employ or engage the worker, while the host controls the workplace and day-to-day activities. Under work health and safety laws, both parties may have duties and cannot simply transfer those duties to the other party through a contract.

Before placing workers, a Labour Hire business should consider:

• The hazards associated with the workplace and assigned duties.
• Whether the worker has the correct experience, qualifications and licences.
• The host’s induction, training and supervision arrangements.
• How personal protective equipment will be supplied and maintained.
• How incidents, injuries and hazards will be reported.
• How workplace conditions and changing duties will be monitored.
• What responsibilities are allocated under the contract with the host.

In most Australian jurisdictions, the Labour Hire business is responsible for arranging Workers Compensation cover for its employees. However, exceptions can apply and the requirements differ between states and territories.

Public Liability or other liability insurance does not replace statutory Workers Compensation cover or remove work health and safety obligations.

Safe Work Australia provides further information about the shared responsibilities of Labour Hire and host businesses.

Before placing workers into a new occupation, location or working environment, review the arrangements with the relevant Workers Compensation authority and your insurance broker.

Learn more about Labour Hire Insurance, complete our Labour Hire Insurance quote request or call 1300 932 237.