Safety Representative Training Course
HSA-Aligned 3-Day Programme — 21 Hours — CPD Certified — 3-Year Certification
Book a Public Course
This course is available as a public scheduled course open to individual bookings. View upcoming dates and secure your place today.
Course Overview
A comprehensive 3-day safety representative training course following Health and Safety Authority (HSA) guidelines. This programme equips elected and appointed Safety Representatives with the knowledge and skills to fulfil their role under Section 25 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. The course covers the legal framework, hazard identification, risk assessment, workplace inspections, and accident investigation. Delivered on-site at your premises across Ireland or at our public courses, with 3-year CPD-accredited certification. Workers are more inclined to follow safe work practices when they believe their thoughts are appreciated and considered. Getting workers engaged in formulating and reviewing safe work practices is the best approach to get them to follow them.
Who Should Attend
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employees can nominate themselves or be nominated to be their co-workers’ Safety Representative.
Elected Safety Representatives
Those selected by employers or elected by employees to fulfil the role of Safety Representative under Section 25 of the 2005 Act.
Aspiring Safety Representatives
Employees interested in becoming a Safety Representative and representing their colleagues on workplace safety matters.
Safety Committee Members
Those who represent their department or division on the workplace safety committee and want to strengthen their knowledge.
Existing Safety Representatives
Current Safety Representatives requiring refresher training to maintain competence, particularly after changes to work practices or safety systems.
Topics Covered
- Role and functions of the Safety Representative under Section 25
- Legal protections for Safety Representatives under Section 27
- Employer duties and employee responsibilities under the 2005 Act
- Safety consultation and representation processes (Sections 25 and 26)
- Hazard identification techniques and workplace inspections
- Risk assessment principles and methodology
- Accident and incident investigation procedures
- Safety statements: purpose, content, and review requirements
- Effective communication and consultation with employers
- Engagement strategies to promote safety ownership among workers
- HSA enforcement powers and the role of inspectors
- Practical exercises: hazard hunts, risk assessments, and mock investigations
Course Details
Delivery
On-site at your premises anywhere in Ireland, or at scheduled public courses. Remote instructor-led delivery via Microsoft Teams also available.
Duration
21 hours across 3 days — includes theory, practical exercises, workshops, and assessment.
CPD Hours
CPD-accredited by the CPD Standards Office (Provider Number: 22657).
Certification
Phoenix STS Safety Representatives Certificate valid for 3 years. Refresher training recommended before expiry or when work practices change.
Maximum Learners
12 participants per session. This ensures meaningful group discussion, individual participation in exercises, and adequate instructor attention.
Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites. This course is suitable for newly appointed Safety Representatives as well as those requiring refresher training. English language proficiency required.
Why Choose This Course
Practical, HSA-aligned training that equips Safety Representatives to make a real difference in their workplace.
HSA-Aligned Curriculum
Course content follows Health and Safety Authority guidelines, ensuring your Safety Representatives receive training that meets national standards and expectations.
CPD-Accredited Certification
Accredited by the CPD Standards Office (Provider No. 22657). 3-year certification recognised as structured professional development.
Practical Exercises
Includes hands-on hazard identification, risk assessment workshops, and mock accident investigations — not just theory.
Experienced H&S Instructors
Our instructors bring practical experience in safety representation and consultation across manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and corporate sectors.
Flexible Delivery
Choose on-site training at your premises, public courses, or remote delivery via Microsoft Teams. Flexible scheduling to minimise disruption.
Legislation Focused
Thorough coverage of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, including Sections 25, 26, and 27 — giving your representatives a solid legal foundation.
What’s Included
Your course fee includes everything needed for a comprehensive 3-day programme:
Comprehensive Course Materials — printed handouts and reference documentation covering all three days
CPD-Accredited Certificate — Phoenix STS Safety Representatives Certificate valid for 3 years
Practical Exercises — hazard identification, risk assessment workshops, and mock accident investigations
Legislation Reference Pack — key sections of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
Inspection Checklists — workplace inspection templates and hazard reporting forms
Post-Course Email Support — direct access to your instructor for guidance after completing the course
Renewal Reminder Service — we’ll contact you before your 3-year certificate expires
What You’ll Learn
The course covers five core areas across three days, combining legal knowledge with practical skills development.
The Legal Framework
Thorough understanding of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, with specific focus on Section 25 (Safety Representatives), Section 26 (Safety Consultation), and Section 27 (legal protections for Safety Representatives). You’ll understand employer duties, employee responsibilities, and the enforcement powers of the HSA.
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment
Practical techniques for identifying workplace hazards, assessing risks, and prioritising corrective actions. You’ll learn systematic inspection methods and how to complete risk assessments that meet legal requirements.
Workplace Inspections
How to plan and conduct effective workplace safety inspections, document findings, and communicate results to management. Includes practical inspection exercises and template checklists.
Accident and Incident Investigation
Investigation methodology for workplace accidents, incidents, and near-misses. You’ll learn root cause analysis techniques, evidence gathering, witness interviewing, and how to make recommendations that prevent recurrence.
Consultation and Communication
Developing the skills to consult effectively with employers, represent colleagues on safety matters, and participate constructively in safety committee meetings. Practical exercises in communication, negotiation, and presenting safety concerns.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, you will be able to:
- Represent your colleagues confidently and effectively on workplace safety matters
- Understand your legal rights and protections under Section 27 of the 2005 Act
- Identify workplace hazards and assess risks using recognised methodology
- Plan and conduct systematic workplace safety inspections
- Investigate accidents and incidents to determine root causes and prevent recurrence
- Consult effectively with employers as required by Sections 25 and 26 of the 2005 Act
- Contribute to the preparation and review of the workplace safety statement
- Promote engagement and ownership of safety among your co-workers
Course Programme
The 3-day programme balances legislation, theory, and practical exercises across seven hours each day.
Day 1: Legal Framework and Safety Consultation
- Welcome and course introduction
- Overview of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
- Role and functions of the Safety Representative (Section 25)
- Safety consultation requirements (Section 26)
- Legal protections for Safety Representatives (Section 27)
- Employer duties and employee responsibilities
- HSA enforcement powers and the role of inspectors
- Group discussion: safety consultation in your workplace
Day 2: Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment
- Principles of hazard identification
- Types of workplace hazards: physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, psychosocial
- Risk assessment methodology and documentation
- Safety statements: purpose, content, and review
- Practical workshop: workplace hazard identification exercise
- Practical workshop: completing a risk assessment
- Workplace inspection planning and checklists
Day 3: Inspections, Investigations, and Communication
- Conducting systematic workplace inspections
- Practical exercise: mock workplace inspection
- Accident and incident investigation methodology
- Root cause analysis and evidence gathering
- Practical exercise: mock accident investigation
- Communication and consultation skills for Safety Representatives
- Course review, assessment, and certification
Legal Framework
The role of Safety Representative is established in Irish law. This course ensures compliance with the following legislation:
Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 — Section 25
Section 25 of the 2005 Act provides that employees may select and appoint a Safety Representative to represent them in consultations with their employer on matters of safety, health, and welfare at work. The Safety Representative has the right to inspect the workplace, investigate accidents, and accompany HSA inspectors.
Section 26 — Safety Consultation
Section 26 requires employers to consult with employees and their Safety Representative for the purpose of making and maintaining arrangements to ensure safety, health, and welfare at work. This includes consultation on risk assessments, safety statements, and the introduction of new safety measures.
Section 27 — Protections for Safety Representatives
Section 27 provides that a Safety Representative shall not be placed at any disadvantage in relation to their employment as a result of performing their functions. This protection is essential to ensure Safety Representatives can fulfil their role without fear of reprisal.
General Application Regulations 2007
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 set out specific requirements for workplace safety across areas including manual handling, display screen equipment, personal protective equipment, and workplace design.
Benefits
For the Safety Representative
- Confidence to represent colleagues effectively on safety matters
- Clear understanding of your legal rights and protections under Section 27
- Practical skills in hazard identification, risk assessment, and inspection
- Ability to investigate accidents and make recommendations for prevention
- CPD-accredited certification recognised by employers and the HSA
For Your Organisation
- Meet legal obligations under Section 25 of the 2005 Act for safety consultation
- Reduce workplace accidents and incidents through proactive hazard identification
- Improve safety culture through worker engagement and ownership
- Better prepared for HSA inspections with trained Safety Representatives in place
- Demonstrate commitment to employee safety and welfare
Assessment and Certification
Learners are assessed through a combination of participation, practical exercises, and a written assessment on the final day.
Phoenix STS Safety Representatives Certificate — issued upon successful completion, valid for 3 years
CPD Certificate — confirming CPD hours (CPD Standards Office, Provider No. 22657)
Certificate Validity — 3 years from date of issue
Refresher Training — recommended every 3 years, or when there is a change in work practices or the introduction of new safety systems
Renewal Reminder — Phoenix STS will contact you before your certificate expires
Our Instructors
All Phoenix STS health and safety instructors are experienced professionals with practical expertise in workplace safety consultation and representation across multiple industries. Our instructors hold memberships with recognised professional bodies:
- IOSH — Institution of Occupational Safety and Health
- IIESMS — Institute of Industrial Engineers and Safety Management Systems
- IIRSM — International Institute of Risk and Safety Management
- L&DI — Learning and Development Institute of Ireland
Qualifications include BSc Environmental Health and Safety Management, Higher Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety, ISO 45001 Lead Auditor certification, and QQI Level 6 Train the Trainer.
Ready to Train Your Safety Representatives?
Equip your Safety Representatives with the knowledge and skills to make your workplace safer. Places are limited to 12 per course. Secure your place today.
ISO 45001:2018 and ISO 9001:2015 certified. CPD-accredited training provider (Provider #22657). Over 15 years’ experience delivering accredited safety training across Ireland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Content last reviewed: March 2026. This page is regularly updated to reflect changes in Irish legislation and HSA guidance.
Under Section 25 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employees have the right to select and appoint a Safety Representative to represent them in consultations with their employer. While the Act does not require employers to appoint a Safety Representative, they must facilitate the role if employees choose to select one. It is best practice and strongly encouraged by the HSA.
The Phoenix STS Safety Representatives Certificate is valid for 3 years from the date of issue. Refresher training is recommended before your certificate expires, or sooner if there are significant changes to work practices or safety systems in your workplace.
Yes. We deliver the Safety Representative Training Course on-site at your premises anywhere in Ireland. On-site delivery allows the course to incorporate your workplace’s specific hazards, safety systems, and procedures, making the training more relevant and immediately applicable.
Yes. We run scheduled public Safety Representative Training Course dates. Public courses are ideal for individual Safety Representatives or small groups. Visit our public courses page to view upcoming dates and book your place.
The maximum class size is 12 learners. This ensures meaningful group discussion, adequate participation in practical exercises, and sufficient instructor attention for each participant across the three-day programme.
Yes. We offer remote instructor-led delivery via Microsoft Teams for the theoretical components of the course. This option is suitable for geographically dispersed teams. Contact us to discuss the best delivery option for your organisation.
Under Section 25 of the 2005 Act, a Safety Representative has the right to: inspect the workplace, investigate accidents and dangerous occurrences, accompany HSA inspectors during workplace inspections, make representations to the employer on safety matters, receive information from the employer on workplace hazards and protective measures, and consult with the employer on safety, health, and welfare matters.
The course covers the legal framework and practical skills applicable to all industries. Our instructors have experience across manufacturing, construction, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and corporate sectors, and will relate the content to your industry. For on-site delivery, exercises can be tailored to your specific workplace hazards and procedures.
No. There are no formal prerequisites. The course is designed for newly appointed Safety Representatives as well as those needing refresher training. It starts with the fundamentals and builds progressively over three days.
The Safety Representative Training Course focuses on the overall role of workplace safety consultation, hazard identification, risk assessment, and accident investigation under Section 25 of the 2005 Act. The Manual Handling Course is a specific practical course focused on safe lifting and moving techniques. They serve different purposes but complement each other.
Compare Our Health & Safety Courses
Safety Representative Training
This course — 3-day HSA programme
Duration: 21 hours (3 days)
Max Learners: 12
Cert Validity: 3 years
Focus: Section 25 Safety Representative role, hazard ID, risk assessment, inspections, investigations
Prerequisite: None
Ideal for: Elected/appointed Safety Representatives, safety committee members
Manual Handling Course
Practical lifting and moving skills
Duration: 4 hours
Max Learners: 12
Cert Validity: 3 years
Focus: Safe manual handling techniques, risk assessment for lifting tasks, injury prevention
Prerequisite: None
Ideal for: All employees involved in manual handling tasks
Available Nationwide Across Ireland
Phoenix STS delivers the Safety Representative Training Course on-site at your premises anywhere in Ireland, and at scheduled public courses at venues across the country.
We have delivered this course to organisations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford, Kilkenny, Athlone, Sligo, Dundalk, Longford, and all counties across Ireland. On-site training is available at the same flat rate regardless of your location.
Contact us for an on-site training quotation or call 043 334 9611.
Related Courses and Services
Explore our other health and safety training courses and consultancy services:
- Manual Handling Course — 4-hour practical course covering safe lifting techniques, risk assessment, and injury prevention.
- Fire Warden Training Course — 7-hour CPD-certified programme with practical fire extinguisher training. 3-year certification.
- Fire Safety Awareness Training — 2-hour on-site fire safety awareness programme for all staff.
- Health & Safety Consultancy — risk assessments, safety statements, audits, and ongoing health and safety support.
- Safety Statements — professional preparation and review of workplace safety statements to meet legal requirements.
- Fire Risk Assessment — PAS 79-1:2020 compliant fire risk assessments by NFRAR-registered assessors. PI insured.
Why Choose Phoenix STS
Ireland’s trusted provider of CPD-accredited safety and healthcare training.
Experienced Team
Over 15 years delivering accredited training to healthcare facilities, schools, and businesses across Ireland. Our instructors are qualified professionals with real-world expertise.
Irish Owned
A proudly Irish-owned company based in Longford, serving clients nationwide. Our courses are tailored to Irish legislative requirements and regulatory standards.
Experts in Health & Safety
ISO 45001:2018 and ISO 9001:2015 certified. CPD-accredited training provider. All courses meet HIQA, HSA, and relevant Irish legislative requirements.