Workplace Safety Committees: A Must for Factories and Workplaces
The Occupational Health and Safety Act of 2003 has made it mandatory for factories and workplaces with multiple health and safety representatives to establish a joint occupational health and safety committee.
Mandatory Establishment of Committees
According to Section 13(1) of the Act, employers are required to establish one or more committees in respect of each factory or workplace where two or more health and safety representatives have been designated. The primary objective of these committees is:
- To make recommendations to the employer
- To discuss any incidents that may occur at the workplace
- To keep records of each recommendation made
- And perform other functions as prescribed
Roles and Responsibilities
The committee’s roles and responsibilities are outlined in Section 14(1) of the Act, which states that they must:
- Provide a safe and healthy working environment for employees
- Make recommendations to the employer on matters related to occupational health and safety
Training for Committee Members
To ensure effective functioning of these committees, it is crucial that members receive mandatory training as required by Section 8.7 of the Act. This training will equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively discharge their duties.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers are responsible for ensuring that:
- Machineries and equipment used in the workplace are designed and supplied with safety features that minimize health hazards to employees
- Suppliers, manufacturers, and importers of such equipment meet certain standards outlined in Section 76(1) of the Act
Special Protection for Vulnerable Workers
Workers in specific conditions of vulnerability, including:
- Pregnant women
- Lactating mothers
- Young workers
require special protection at work. Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment for these employees, as outlined in Section 9.8 of the Act.
Conclusion
The establishment of joint occupational health and safety committees is a critical step towards ensuring a safer working environment for employees. It is essential that employers take their responsibilities seriously and ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect the health and safety of their workers.