Mr Hilton was one of four contending for the title, which recognises workers who made a difference to health and safety within their designated work group.

Mr Hilton has been a health and safety representative for 10 years at the Toyota Altona Plant and was nominated for his active role in health and safety.

WorkSafe’s executive director of health and safety John Merritt said the awards were about recognising those who had used initiative and commitment to health and safety improvements.

“No matter what the industry or field, progress occurs through people who believe that things can be done differently and better,” he said.