A health and safety representative (HSR) plays a crucial role when it comes to workplace safety, and IHSA’s Deb Moskal and Doug Heintz return to the IHSA Safety Podcast to discuss their importance in the workplace. On Episode 102, Deb and Doug explained the legislative requirements for a health and safety representative in Ontario small businesses. On this episode, they discuss the importance of having a health and safety representative and how employers can help them flourish in their role.
The role of a health and safety representative is not only to relay information from the employer but also to take concerns and ideas from fellow workers and communicate them to the employer. Deb emphasizes their critical role in monitoring and identifying hazards, such as unsafe equipment, chemicals, and ergonomic issues. HSRs help create awareness among workers about safety procedures and strengthen the safety culture from the worker's perspective.
Employers are required to provide resources and support to HSRs to help them fulfill their role effectively. This includes providing them with the time needed to conduct inspections and investigations, and access to all locations that need to be inspected. Resources should also include tools and equipment necessary to carry out their tasks, basic health and safety training, and ongoing training and certifications, such as IHSA’s Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) certification training.
It’s important that employers encourage an open line of communication between the HSR, workers, and the employer, which will provide opportunities for the HSR to receive feedback from workers on safety concerns and share updates from management.
Free Resources
Guideline for Health and Safety Representatives
JHSC/Health & Safety Representative
Legislative Requirements and Best Practices
Health and Safety Representative eCourse
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