WorkSafe has released a consolidated version of a Safe Work Instrument that governs how Controlled Substance Licence (CSL) requirements apply to specified Class 1 substances.

Class 1 substances are explosives under the UN classification system. A CSL is the licence needed to possess and handle certain high‑risk controlled substances, including some explosives used in sectors such as quarrying, construction, demolition, pyrotechnics, and film.

Safe Work Instruments are a form of secondary legislation used to set or modify detailed requirements under the Health and Safety at Work framework. Consolidation brings previous amendments into a single document so users don’t have to track multiple versions.

WorkSafe’s notice does not outline new obligations. However, businesses that import, supply, store, transport, or use Class 1 substances should check the consolidated instrument to confirm how CSL requirements apply in their operations, and whether any modified applications or exceptions are relevant to them.

The consolidated “Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances — Modified Application of Controlled Substance Licence Requirements for Specified Class 1 Substances) Safe Work Instrument 2023” is available on WorkSafe’s website.