Common mistakes on Health and Safety -IOSH magazine May/June 2022 (Scott Crichton)
/Hi folks .
I read a good article recently in above and think its worth sharing in a reduced format..It picks out common mistakes in Health and Safety Policy for Company`s and advises solutions. I have added my own slant on its content.
All polices should have a statement of intent-just a one page statement of what the company attitude is to Health and Safety and signed by the Managing Director.
Make sure the policy gives details on the structure of the company and who is in charge of each Health and Safety role. Be specific on everyone`s day to day role and responsibility.
Make sure all the hazards are covered and an index will help.It cant be generic as there are no one solution fits all i in my view.
Worker involvement is key from my perspective of Health and Safety. Workers know the hazards and are the key to identification and illumination risk if genuinely involved in the process. An employee handbook helps if its easy to read,understand and relevant . Worker participation in its creation is important,great to have staff ownership of safety procedures and enforcement.
Make sure the policy is properly communicated to staff and reinforced on a regular basis.Its not a you must do this or that, you want people to drive their own safety at work through involvement in its formation and making it work properly.
Don`t leave the policy locked away in a press, why not have it downloaded onto peoples home page for referral when required.
Don`t make it longer than it needs to be.Stick to what necessary with no waffle.
Health and Safety policies are not a lets review next year document. It should be constantly reviewed and changed as needs be.
Make sure a competent person puts the document together because although it may be a lot about common sense it may also be required in court and has legal requirements that must be met.
Call anytime for advice on above.