Safety experts are sceptical about a new Government directive for WorkSafe. 

The health and safety regulator has been instructed to shift focus from enforcement, to offering advice. 

Workplace Relations Minister Brooke van Velden says it is currently feared for its punitive actions - and not appreciated for guidelines. 

But the Institute of Safety Management's Jeff Sissons says that characterisation from the Minister is not what he hears about the agency.

"Most employers haven't seen or heard much of WorkSafe. I take the Minister at her word, she's heard from some employers - but that's certainly not something I've come across."

LISTEN ABOVE