HSE launches updated guidance for worker involvement
THE Health and Safety Executive has launched new guidance for involving employees in the management of workplace health and safety. The guidance has been brought up to date to reflect the current diversity of working arrangements.
Commenting on the launch, HSE chair Judith Hackitt said there was clear evidence to show that organizations with good worker involvement deliver better performance on health and safety, and that 90% of employers and employees already agree that effective involvement is important.
Health and Safety Minister Lord McKenzie of Luton added that the key principles of the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) were built upon consultation and engagement and are as relevant today as they were 30 years ago.
‘I see two key tenets here,’ he said. ‘First, the importance of leadership from the top of every organization; and secondly, the real involvement of workers in managing health and safety.’
Judith Hackitt added: ‘The real substance of good worker involvement is trust, respect, co-operation and joint problem-solving between employers and employees. This applies to all workplaces irrespective of size or any other factor.
‘This new guidance will help all organizations to decide how to implement a culture in their organization which genuinely values employees’ contributions, leading to higher commitment and productivity.’