Q: We are only a small not-for-profit organisation with a staff of seven office workers. Are we obligated to have a health and safety representative?

A: It is not mandatory for an organisation to have a health and safety representative (HSR). An HSR is only required where someone puts their hand up and requests for the organisation to have one. That triggers a process of electing one (or in the case of an organisation of your size, having the person who put their hand up appointed).

Please note: The answer is correct at the time of publishing. Be aware that laws may change over time. Refer to Health and safety representatives and committees for current advice.