1. Identifying Hazards You should become as skilled as possible at identifying potential hazards in the workplace. This may involve regular inspections and employee consultations to uncover unsafe conditions or practices. You should familiarise yourself with the Brown Book and use your rights under the Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations, 1977, if, for instance, employers resist inspections of the workplace or of documents. 2. Evaluating Risks Once hazards are identified, the next step for employers is to evaluate the associated risks, including assessing the likelihood of an incident occurring and the potential severity of its impact. Awareness of relevant risk assessments in the workplace is key and you should be prepared to challenge employers who have failed to assess risks adequately. 3. Implementing Controls Employers must implement effective control measures to mitigate any identified risks that can't be fully eliminated. These measures can include training on safer work practices and providing safer work equipment. Personal protective equipment may also be required if workers are still exposed to physical risks despite those measures. CONDUCTING RISK ASSESSMENTS
HEALTH & SAFETY COMMITTEES
Formation and Function Establishing health and safety committees ensures employers and employees collaborate to improve workplace safety. These committees should be developed to ensure that they are close enough to the frontline of work to be practical, respected, and, therefore, effective. Employee Involvement Active participation from union members in health and safety matters is crucial. You have a vital role to play in encouraging workers to voice their safety concerns and suggestions, fostering a culture where safety is a shared responsibility. HANDLING COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS Reporting Mechanisms Employees need to be confident that clear procedures for reporting health and safety concerns are in place. To encourage honest reporting, anonymity and confidentiality should be assured. Investigating Complaints You must be able to investigate complaints thoroughly. This may involve gathering facts, interviewing witnesses, and examining an incident scene to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence. Again, the Brown Book is a crucial weapon in the rep’s armoury.
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