If we define anything that harms a person at work as an accident, then its possible that many things could contribute to its cause. We are all to quick to blame the injured person, however there are a number of other factors that have to be looked at, inadequate training, poor maintenance, no health and safety in the factory and lack of supervision. All too often managers and supervisors are not full aware off all the risks associated with all the machines and equipment that they are in charge of as they have been promoted as a result “in the right place at the right time”.
HSE research shows that one of the best ways to prevent harm or illness at work is to talk to each other. Discussing health and safety topics will help make your environment safer and healthier, thus improving performance. Workplaces where employees are involved in a ‘health and safety committee’ are shown to have reduced accidents and ill health.
An employee based health and safety committee is ideal as the employees often understand the hazards and risks involved in their own work sectors. Employees often feel a greater sense of responsibility as the management often listen to actions brought forward, thus increasing their attitude towards health and safety. Collecting information on the issues raised at the meetings will be a good way on monitoring how the employees respond to health and safety matters.
What happens when you disagree about health and safety issues, it would help have an agreed process is in place to deal with disagreements, and wherever possible you should use these procedures to resolve any issues. If there is no agreement then there are bodies that you can contact for information, Arbitration and Conciliation Service (ACAS) or contact your local trade union if you are a member.
Health and safety has to be taken seriously, you need to keep monitoring performance and reviewing progress regularly with your workforce and employee representatives. You can also explore what others in your industry or similar businesses do to find out what works and share experiences of successful measures.
One Response
Great article and it’s shocking how many managers don’t understand the risks associated with all the machines and equipment.