Think being a Health and Safety Representative (HSR) is “just a role”? Think again.
Over the years, I’ve seen HSRs turn this opportunity into something much bigger, finding themselves in leadership roles, management positions, and even entire careers in safety.
In fact, some of the HSRs I’ve trained have come back years later as team leaders or managers, bringing their own HSRs for training. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my work. If you’re an HSR (or you’re supporting one), know this…
…this role is rarely the final destination.
It’s the starting point for a career pathway you might not have realised was possible.
Why the HSR Role Matters
Many people see the role of HSR as ticking a compliance box. But here’s the truth, HSRs are the ones on the ground, identifying hazards, solving problems, and influencing workplace safety culture.
These aren’t small tasks. These are leadership skills in action.
Here’s why this role is such a powerful career catalyst:
- They influence change: HSRs raise safety issues, offer solutions, and help others see the “why” behind change.
- They develop people skills: From talking to management to guiding their peers, HSRs develop the confidence to communicate clearly and persuasively.
- They problem-solve daily: Hazards aren’t always obvious, and finding the right solution takes critical thinking and creativity.
This kind of experience doesn’t go unnoticed. Over time, HSRs naturally become “go-to” people in their teams, and that’s where new career opportunities start to open up.
The Career Pathway HSR Can Offer
When I look at the career paths of HSRs I’ve trained, a clear pattern emerges. With the right mindset and support, HSRs go on to take roles such as:
Supervisors and Team Leaders
Their ability to lead discussions, drive action, and think ahead makes them natural team leaders.
Safety Managers
They’re already tuned into risk management and compliance, so stepping into a dedicated safety manager role is a logical next step.
Safety Trainers & Mentors
Some go on to train and mentor the next generation of HSRs, passing on their knowledge and experience.
Safety Auditors
With their deep understanding of workplace safety systems and compliance, HSRs are well-positioned to move into auditing roles where they assess and improve safety standards.
Sector/Industry Specialists
HSRs can develop expertise in specific industries, making them highly sought after for specialised safety roles.
In fact, career progression for HSRs often includes roles such as Safety Officer, Team Leader, Lead Safety Manager, or even Sector/Industry Specialist (Source: Spire Safety).
I’ve even seen people move into roles in mental health safety, emergency response, and risk management, all from building on the skills they first developed as an HSR.
Skills That Make HSRs Future Leaders
Every leader needs a core set of skills, and HSRs develop these naturally as part of their role. Here’s a closer look at the skills that set them up for success in leadership roles:
1️⃣ Leadership Skills
HSRs are already “leaders without a title.” They take charge of workplace safety, often leading conversations, and driving change. This ability to influence and guide others is exactly what companies look for in supervisors and managers.
2️⃣ Safety Knowledge
When an HSR steps into a leadership role, they bring safety-first thinking with them. That’s gold for companies trying to build a strong safety culture.
3️⃣ Communication
HSRs need to communicate clearly with everyone from team members to senior managers. The ability to break down complex issues and explain “why it matters” is a must-have skill for leaders.
4️⃣ Problem-Solving
Workplace hazards aren’t always obvious. The problem-solving approach HSRs develop on the job is something that serves them well as team leaders and managers.
How Companies Benefit From Supporting HSRs
When companies support their HSRs to grow, they’re not just ticking the “training” box. They’re actively building a pipeline of future leaders.
Here’s what happens when companies invest in their HSRs:
- More engaged, proactive employees: HSRs who feel supported are more engaged, and that engagement spreads to the wider team.
- Stronger safety culture: Employees promoted from HSR to leadership bring safety-first thinking into their new roles, influencing the entire company.
- Reduced turnover: Investing in training and career development builds loyalty. When employees see a future with your company, they’re more likely to stay.
Some of the most successful companies I’ve worked with offer leadership development to their HSRs, encouraging them to step up and contribute to business-wide change.
Quick Wins for HSRs & Employers
For HSRs (Want to grow your career? Do this)
- Start tracking your wins: Write down examples of when you identified a hazard, solved a problem, or influenced a safety change.
- Seek out feedback: Ask your manager for feedback on your leadership skills and where you could grow.
- Lean into opportunities: If you’re given the chance to lead a safety project or conduct an inspection, say yes! It’s all experience that builds your career story.
For Employers (Want to grow your leaders? Do this)
- Give HSRs space to lead: Let them run safety meetings, guide inspections, or lead incident reviews. It builds their confidence.
- Recognise and reward their work: Acknowledge the extra effort your HSRs put in — it’s a simple way to inspire them to keep growing.
- Provide leadership training: When you offer extra training (like leadership development) to your HSRs, you’re preparing them for bigger roles in your business.
Your Opportunity to Grow
If you’re an HSR, know that your role is just the beginning. The skills you’re building today could lead to a future in leadership, safety management, or even a whole new career path.
And if you’re an employer, supporting your HSRs to grow is one of the smartest moves you can make. Invest in their development, and you’ll get future leaders who understand safety from the ground up.
If you’d like to talk about how to support your HSRs or explore training options, I’m here to help. Let’s chat about what’s possible.
ABOUT THE Author - Kylie Dowell
Kylie Dowell is a seasoned WHS consultant, trainer, and safety advocate with over 25 years of experience helping Australian businesses create safer, compliant workplaces.
Through her partnership with TEAMS, an accredited Registered Training Organisation, Kylie delivers a wide range of training up to Advanced Diploma level, empowering businesses with the knowledge and skills to manage safety effectively.
As an approved trainer for Health and Safety Representative (HSR) courses by three Safety Regulators, Kylie has guided countless organisations in building stronger safety cultures and fostering healthier work environments.
Specialising in practical and effective safety solutions, she works closely with small and medium-sized businesses to simplify complex WHS requirements, making safety approachable and achievable.
When she’s not delivering high-quality training or conducting ISO 45001-certified audits, Kylie enjoys collaborating with her clients to design tailored workshops and strategies that suit their unique needs.
Ready to make safety simpler? Get in touch with Kylie today for personalised support.