HSE launches new guidance
Construction
15th October 2008
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued new guidance about involving employees in ensuring workplaces are safe.
Judith Hackitt, HSE chair, said that trust, respect, co-operation and joint problem solving are all important considerations when it comes to effective worker involvement.
She commented: "This applies to all workplaces irrespective of size or any other factor."
"This guidance will help all organisations to decide how to implement a culture in their organisation which genuinely values employees' contributions leading to higher commitment and productivity."
The new guidelines could be of particular use to business owners who do not want to claim on their liability insurance policies.
An employer's duty to consult their employees is documented in the Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations 1977 and the Health and Safety (Consultation with Employees) Regulations 1996.
Health and safety minister Lord McKenzie of Luton, speaking at an HSE conference, said around 5,000 fatalities had been prevented by the regulations.
