This free program helps set small businesses up for success and to maintain a COVIDSafe environment. Get access to three consultations with an independent consultant who will support improving the safety in your business.

As a business owner or manager, the safety of your employees is your number one priority. The OHS Essentials Program provides free support to small and medium businesses (60 workers or fewer) who have a WorkCover insurance policy.

The Victorian Chamber has been proud provider of the OHS Essentials Program for many years, assisting hundreds of small businesses to build and maintain safe workplaces. Although your safety responsibilities can appear daunting, the safety journey is not a path that you need to walk alone. Our expert consultants who can visit your workplace, discuss the risks specific to your business, and recommend where you should be spending your time and attention.

Our consultants are flexible and can work at times that are convenient to you. In addition to providing advice and support on how to address common health and safety risks, our consultants will also help you understand your obligations to provide a safe workplace during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Will the consultant inform WorkSafe of their findings?

A: Discussions and recommendations made by the consultants are completely confidential.

Q: Are there any out-of-pocket expenses?

A: Participating in the program is free.

Q: How long does the initial session take?

A: Your initial session will take up to three hours, and any follow-up visits may take approximately two to three hours. All on-site visits are subject to government coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions and, if required, they can be facilitated remotely.

Although the program is free, it requires a genuine commitment your part to invest time to address the safety issues identified during your initial and follow-up visits. We are available to support and guide you with our expertise, but the ultimate responsibility for safety your workplace lies with you.

To find out more about the program and to register your interest, please visit our OHS Essentials webpage. If you have any questions about the OHS Essentials program, please contact our safety team on 03 8662 5333 who will be happy to assist you.