Identify designated persons for reporting queries and concerns about safety in the workplace
The organisation needs to assign a person/s with the responsibility for reporting queries and concerns about safety in the workplace. Designated persons may include:
f Health and safety officers are employed by an organisation to ensure that the WHS policies and procedures are being followed. Depending upon
the organisation they are employed in their role will be framed to suit the organisations purposes, however generally their role would include:
• promote occupational health and safety within the organisation and develop safer and healthier ways of working
• inspect machinery and equipment, such as lifting devices, machine shields and scaffolding, to make sure they meet safety regulations
• work with engineers and other professionals to ensure the safety of worksites
• make sure that personal protective equipment, such as dust masks, safety glasses, footwear and safety helmets, is being used in workplaces according to regulations
• make sure that dangerous materials are correctly stored
• identify and test work areas for potential accident and health hazards, such as toxic fumes and explosive gas-air mixtures, and implement appropriate control measures
• make sure that the organisation is aware of, and complies with, all legislation relating to its workplace activities and the use of its plant, equipment and substances
• help supervise the investigation of accidents and unsafe working conditions, study possible causes and recommend remedial action
• conduct training sessions for management, supervisors and workers on health and safety practices and legislation