New workplace safety regulations now require all warehouse staff who handle packaged goods to complete dangerous goods awareness training, with a compliance deadline of December 31, 2025.

Requirement Details

Who Must Complete Training

Warehouse pickers and packers
Receiving and dispatch staff
Forklift operators
Supervisors and team leaders
Casual and temporary workers

Training Content

Approved courses must cover:

Identification of dangerous goods markings
Basic segregation requirements
Emergency response procedures
Reporting obligations
Personal protective equipment

Training Duration

Awareness level: Minimum 4 hours
Handling level: Minimum 8 hours (for those directly handling DG)
Refresher: Required every 3 years

Compliance Verification

Regulators will require:

Individual training certificates
Training register maintenance
Competency assessment documentation
Refresher scheduling records

Available Resources

Training options include:

Online self-paced modules
Workplace-delivered group training
RTO-certified programs
Industry association courses

Penalties for non-compliance can reach $50,000 for businesses and $10,000 for individuals, emphasising the importance of meeting the deadline.