EMPLOYEE REPRESENTATIVES
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The Transwaste case raised the issue of whether employees or their representatives – such as a trade union health and safety officer – can make a positive contribution to a firm’s health and safety culture.
If the operator recognises a trade union and the union has appointed a safety representative, it must consult the safety rep.
Anton Balkitis says: “Safety reps have certain rights and functions, including the legal right to represent workers in talks with the operator or the HSE or other safety or environmental enforcement agencies. They can also investigate complaints, possible hazards and dangerous incidents, carry out regular inspections of the workplace, as well as take part in workplace risk assessments.” According to Tim Culpin, the value of employees having a union rep is that it alerts the employer to any pressing health and safety concerns and allows dialogue with, and feedback from, the workforce.
Vikki Woodfine says: “In terms of health and safety reps, often a positive step that employers can take is to set up a health and safety committee with members from all aspects of the business.
“This needs to be shown as more than just a talking [shop], and have its own financial budget and a management commitment to implement any good suggestions.”