Health and Safety Rep

[red_dog_six]

Quick one.....

Just got nominated and or "vol in told" for Health and Safety Rep.

Any good sites to look up some responsibilities, expectations etc?

Thanks
Andrew

[CKL958]

Quick one.....

Just got nominated and or "vol in told" for Health and Safety Rep.

Any good sites to look up some responsibilities, expectations etc?

Thanks
Andrew

OH&S act would be a good place to start. Should be a "pocket size" green book kicking around (Although, I can't think of any pockets I have that are that thick) that will outline the requirements of worker, supervisor, employer, etc. Section 25 is chock full of information on some of that stuff iirc.

[Roadwarrior]

Hey....join the club. I took it on under one condition...that I would serve for 1 year and then I would never have to do it again. Did an inspection of the firehall a few weeks ago, referenced the "green book" and wrote up a report. I think I'll have a meeting to go to soon....can't wait <rolls eyes>.

[Sapsprog]

Document Document Document. Make sure you keep good notes on what you have suggested and requested. This is one position you need to make sure you have a paper trail. Remeber if anyone wants something and they can't get it they try to make it a safety issue. Don't get caught up in the politics.

[firefighter316]

I have been the H&S rep for 8 years. The best place to find the info you need is from MHSA. http://www.mhsao.com/
The municipality should be sending you on a training course with them. 2 courses actually. The first is the basic certification. The second is job specific training. It's a bit of time and money for the municipality to invest so you will likely be pressured to stay on as rep for an extended period. It doesn't make sense for them to keep switching the role out as by the time the new guy is up to speed on his duties etc., he would be near the end of his term.
One thing to keep in mind that will make your job easier. It is your job to point out safety hazards, it is their job to fix it. Don't take on the task of fixing everything yourself or you will have no time for anything else.

Good Luck

[Roadwarrior]

It is your job to point out safety hazards, it is their job to fix it. Don't take on the task of fixing everything yourself or you will have no time for anything else.

Good Luck

Good point....that was in the back of my mind while I was doing the inspection.

[Supra]

12 yrs on our H&S committee. As FF316 says..take the courses, you will learn some things. It is amazing how many times issues are presented as H&S concerns and turn out to be the fault of the person making the complaint in the the first place.

Take it serious, but don't abuse your appointment either.