Received a WorkSafe Improvement Notice? Here’s What to Do
As someone who’s issued 99 WorkSafe Improvement Notices during my time as an inspector, I understand how stressful it can feel when you're handed one. But here’s the thing — a notice doesn’t mean you’re in trouble. It means there's a risk in your workplace that needs to be managed, and the regulator is giving you an opportunity to address it.
Whether it’s a physical hazard like unsafe pallet racking or a psychosocial risk such as stress or bullying, the process is the same: assess the risk, engage your team, take action and if you need help, ask for it early.
What Does a Notice Actually Include?
Each notice outlines:
The risk identified
The level of exposure to that risk
The potential consequences
A suggested compliance measure (which may not be the only option)
A reminder about the importance of consulting with your workers
And a clear due date by which action must be taken
🟧 Important: The compliance action listed in the notice is not prescriptive. As a duty holder, you’re expected to determine what control is SFAIRP — so far as is reasonably practicable — not just follow the example provided.
🟧 Here’s a short breakdown I wrote on how WorkSafe applies this standard (SFAIRP)
What If You Disagree — or Just Need More Time?
If you're already working on the issue but can’t complete it before the deadline, you can request an extension before the due date. Just explain what you’ve already done and what remains.
If you believe the notice is not reasonable or the control measure suggested is not SFAIRP, you can apply for a review through WorkSafe’s Internal Review Unit (IRU).
I’ve had multiple notices challenged over the years — and in two cases, the IRU set them aside after reviewing the information submitted by the duty holder.
🟧 What is the IRU?
The Internal Review Unit is a dedicated team within WorkSafe Victoria. It operates independently from the inspectorate and applies an objective process to ensure fairness and balance in how enforcement powers are used.
🟧 This review process is explained by the inspector at the time they issue the notice. It helps create an atmosphere of transparency and reduces the stress that a duty holder might experience during an inspection.
How We Help Small Businesses
At RAS-OHS, we work directly with business owners and site managers to:
Understand the risk and compliance expectations in the notice
Review whether existing or proposed controls are effective and SFAIRP
Facilitate consultation with workers
Assist with extension requests or IRU applications — when there’s a strong case
Address both physical and psychosocial hazards
I’ve sat on both sides of this process — and my role now is to take the stress out of it for you.
🟧 In the coming days, I’ll be sharing a follow-up article on Psychosocial Improvement Notices and the nuances that come with them.
🟧 Need support responding to a notice? Let’s chat.
Contact me
