As mentioned previously, a PCBU is required to arrange for the election of WHS representatives if they are requested by an employee. The PCBU must define the make-up of workgroups in the organisation through consultation with the workers as this will determine the number of WHS representatives. Each workgroup should have a representative. The consultation regarding this must start within 14 days of the request being made.
Under the Act a health and safety representative for a work group holds office for 3 years but cannot continue in the role if
the person resigns as a health and safety representative for the work group by written notice given to the person conducting the relevant business or undertaking; or
the person ceases to be a worker in the work group for which he or she was elected as a health and safety representative; or
the person is disqualified under section 65 from acting as a health and safety representative; or
the person is removed from that position by a majority of the members of the work group in accordance with the regulations.