25 March 2004 - HSC Urges Employers to Consult Workers
Bill Callaghan launched a statement on worker involvement and consultation, which set out the HSC's case for a collaborative approach between partners to managing risks to occupational health and safety. He said:
"I believe the statement makes a strong argument for the active participation of employees in managing workplace health and safety, working in partnership with their employers to reduce both ill-health and injuries".
The chair of the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) called on all employers to properly involve and consult their employees to ensure good standards of health and safety in the workplace.
The statement recognises workers as the most valuable asset in bringing about real improvements in occupational health and safety.
Callaghan went on to add:
"A fully involved and consulted workforce would be a major contribution to achieving a healthier, safer workplace. All workers have a right to work in places where all risks to their health and safety are properly controlled. Not enough employers properly involve and consult their staff on health and safety. Equally, not enough workers feel able to come forward and take on health and safety responsibilities. There are many examples of where greater consultation between managers, staff and unions has increased health and standards, and other cases where poor dialogue has led to significant human and financial costs.
We are not claiming that workforce involvement is the only way to improve health and safety, or saying its absence is the only reason for failure. I challenge all parts of industry to promote the statement and build agreement on this issue: for employers, workers, the unions and other major players to develop and publicise ways of creating trust and working with each other in partnership."
The TUC, CBI, Institute of Directors, Federation of Small Businesses and Chemical Industries Association have endorsed the statement and are keen to meet the challenges it presents.
