WHS Shield • Hazard Register Guide
Hazard Register Guide for Australian Workplaces
Learn what a Hazard Register is, why it is required under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, and how to create a compliant hazard register that helps identify, assess and control risks in your workplace.
This guide provides general WHS information only. Always check the WHS laws and codes of practice in your state or territory.
What is a Hazard Register?
A Hazard Register is a central record of all identified hazards in a workplace, including their associated risks, control measures and review dates. It is a key requirement under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and forms part of a compliant WHS Management System.
The purpose of a Hazard Register is to ensure hazards are documented, assessed and controlled — and that controls are regularly reviewed to keep workers safe.
Why a Hazard Register is required under the WHS Act 2011
Under the WHS Act 2011, businesses (PCBUs) must identify hazards, assess risks and implement control measures. A Hazard Register provides documented evidence that these duties are being met.
Inspectors often request a Hazard Register during audits, investigations or site visits. A complete and up‑to‑date register demonstrates compliance and reduces legal risk.
How to create a compliant Hazard Register (step‑by‑step)
- Identify hazards. Walk through the workplace, consult workers and review incident data to identify anything that could cause harm.
- Assess the risks. Determine the likelihood and consequence of harm using the Australian risk matrix.
- Select control measures. Apply the hierarchy of controls to eliminate or minimise risks.
- Record the hazard. Document the hazard, risk rating, controls, responsible person and review date.
- Review regularly. Update the register when controls change, after incidents or at scheduled intervals.
Hazard Register Template (copy and adapt)
Hazard: ____________________________
Description: ____________________________
Risk (Likelihood × Consequence): ____________________________
Control Measures (Hierarchy of Controls): ____________________________
Responsible Person: ____________________________
Review Date: ____________________________
This template is a starting point only. You must adapt it to your specific workplace and WHS obligations.
Example: Hazard Register Entry (Australian Workplace)
Hazard: Manual handling of heavy boxes
Risk: Musculoskeletal injury (Moderate risk)
Controls: Use trolleys (engineering), team lifts (administrative), training (administrative)
Responsible Person: Warehouse Supervisor
Review Date: 6 months
Common Hazard Register mistakes to avoid
- Not updating the register after incidents or changes
- Listing hazards without risk ratings
- Not linking controls to the hierarchy of controls
- Using generic hazards that don’t reflect the workplace
- No responsible person or review date assigned
Hazard Register FAQ (Australia)
Is a Hazard Register mandatory?
Yes. Under the WHS Act 2011, businesses must identify hazards and manage risks. A Hazard Register provides documented evidence of compliance.
How often should a Hazard Register be reviewed?
After incidents, when work changes, or at scheduled intervals as part of your WHS Management System.
Who is responsible for maintaining the Hazard Register?
The PCBU, supervisors and managers share responsibility for ensuring hazards are recorded and controls are implemented.
Create and manage Hazard Registers with WHS Shield
WHS Shield helps Australian businesses generate hazard registers, risk assessments, SWMS, WHS policies and incident reports — all aligned with the WHS Act 2011.