Anyone who works at a construction site needs proper safety training to understand the most common dangers. Construction sites often have heavy machinery, equipment placed at heights, and risk of falling objects. These issues increase the risk of injury.
With white card training, you learn how to avoid common construction site risks. It is a requirement under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act regulations. Here is a closer look at the training program and the requirements for white cards.
Who Needs to Get a White Card in Darwin?
If you plan to work or enter a construction site, you need a white card. This requirement applies to general labourers, tradespeople, site managers, supervisors, and even those visiting the Northern Territory on a working holiday visa.
Construction sites include any environment involving the installation, construction, demolition, or removal of a structure or building. According to WHS regulations, the following work may also qualify as a construction site:
- Tasks that involve sheet piles or trench sheets
- Tasks that involve road works or earthworks
- Tasks that require the use of scaffolding
Those that obtained the older blue card may also need to complete the newer training program. Most safety groups recommend retaking the course or completing a refresher program every two years. The newer training program is also a prerequisite for many other OHS courses.
How Long Does a White Card Last in Darwin?
A white card is good for two years after you have completed the course. The card does not technically expire. However, most employers require workers to retake the course after a two-year absence from the construction industry.
The cards are accepted in other states and territories. This means if you obtain an NT white card, you do not need a separate WA white card to work in Western Australia or any Australian state.
How Do I Get a White Card in Darwin?
To obtain a white card, you need to complete a white card training Darwin course. The courses are offered through registered training organisations (RTOs). According to WHS requirements, the training must be completed face to face.
CPCCWHS1001 is the nationally recognised unit that satisfies the requirements for construction induction training. After the successful completion of the program, you receive a statement of attainment. The card is mailed to your address.
Until the card arrives in the mail, you must keep the statement as verification that you have completed the training. If you lose the statement or the card, you may request a copy through the training organisation where you completed the training.
Some training organisations offer online courses. The online programs are self-paced and cover the same topics included in the in-person training. However, most authoritative bodies do not accept cards obtained through online programs.
To comply with WHS regulations, you need to complete the training in-person. The precourse material is made available immediately and is easy to understand.
The training does not come with any prerequisites. You do not need to take any courses before taking the construction induction course. However, you need to be at least 15 years of age and be able to comprehend the English language.
What Will You Learn in the White Card Course in Darwin?
The practical training and theory portion of the program covers common construction site hazards and the recommended procedures for reducing the risk of these hazards. The primary elements described in the program include:
- Identifying WHS requirements for construction sites
- Construction hazards and control measures
- Health and safety communication and reporting
- Procedures for emergency responses to incidents
You learn the basic responsibilities of duty holders and the duty of care requirements outlined under the WHS Act. The basic practices for safe construction work are also identified and explained.
The second portion of the program discusses risk management principles and procedures. This includes the use of PPE and the measures for controlling hazards, such as safety equipment or signage.
The third portion deals with the processes for reporting health and safety issues. The roles of health and safety representatives on the worksite are also explained. You learn how to identify safety symbols and signs, along with the steps for reporting hazards or injuries.
The fourth section of the program covers response procedures for emergencies. This includes responding to incidents and emergencies, accessing first aid equipment, and the types of fire safety equipment.
The program includes training and assessment. During the assessment, you need to demonstrate knowledge of the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Examples of PPE include:
- Eye protection
- Hard hats
- Hearing protection
- Hi-vis (high visibility) vests
The assessment includes performance evidence and knowledge evidence. The performance evidence portion demonstrates your knowledge of the foundation skills discussed, such as using PPE. You need to orally explain how to reduce or remove risks for specific hazards.
The knowledge portion demonstrates your understanding of the basic duty of care and the roles of business owners and individual workers.
How Long Is the White Card Course in Darwin?
The course lasts for a full day. It covers a lot of information, requiring an entire day for workers to fully understand the hazards and recommended safety procedures. While online training is quicker, it does not meet the WHS requirements for those obtaining their first white card.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a White Card in Darwin?
AlertForce offers a nationally recognised CPCCWHS1001 course for $120 per person. Precourse materials are available immediately.
