The committee does this by establishing terms of reference and the employer provides support by allocating adequate resources. To function properly, the committee needs an appropriate structure, a clear statement of purpose and duties, and standard procedures for meetings. The employer must establish a committee that is organized and operates in compliance with the law, is effective, involves the widest range of workers and management, and provides resources (e.g., time, money, meeting rooms) so the committee can do its work. The responsibilities of members of the committee or representative are detailed in the health and safety legislation across Canada.Ī health and safety committee brings together workers’ in-depth, practical knowledge of specific jobs and management's overall overview of job interrelationships, general company policies, and procedures.
When a committee may not be required, a worker representative may be appointed. Such committees are legal requirements for organizations of a specified minimum size in all Canadian jurisdictions. A health and safety committee is a forum for collaborative involvement of employees representing both labour and management. What are examples of the responsibilities of workers?Īn effective safety program needs the cooperative involvement of all workers. Health and safety is not just an extra part of a worker's job: it is an integral, full-time component of each individual's responsibilities. Once all these criteria have been met, safety performance can be assessed by each individual's supervisor on an equal basis with other key job elements. Have the required ability and competence (such as those acquired through education, training or certification).Have sufficient authority to carry them out (organizational issue).
Management is committed to doing everything possible to prevent injuries, to promote prevention, and to maintain a safe and healthy environment.ġ) all supervisors are responsible for ensuring that their workers are trained in approved safe work procedures and to ensure that workers follow safe work procedures and all related regulations Ģ) all personnel are required to support the OH&S program and make safety and health a part of their daily routine and to ensure that they are following safe work procedures and relevant regulations ģ) all personnel will be held accountable for implementing this program andĤ) all relevant laws and regulations are incorporated in our program as minimum standardsįor more information, please also see the OSH Answers’ Guide to Writing an OHS Policy Statement. The following is an example of an occupational health and safety policy statement:Īt ABC Transport the safety and health of our workers comes first. Signed by the current President or Chief Executive Officer.That unacceptable performance of health and safety duties will not be tolerated.That health and safety shall not be sacrificed for convenience or expediency.The general responsibilities of all managers and workers.Who is accountable for the health and safety programs.The organization's health and safety philosophy.Management's commitment to protecting and promoting the safety and health of workers, and preventing injuries and illnesses.The policy statement can be brief, but it should mention: The health and safety policy should have the same importance as the other policies of the organization. Senior (or top) management must be committed to ensuring that the policy is carried out with no exceptions. An organization's occupational health and safety policy is a statement of principles and general rules that guides action.