Health and Safety Committees and Consultation
All levels of management across the University have an obligation to consult with their staff on health and safety issues that may affect them. This means it is possible to examine issues of concern and develop solutions that can be implemented appropriately.
Therefore, you will be given relevant information and an opportunity to contribute to any decision-making processes that may affect your health, safety, and welfare at work such as:
- changing work systems or practices
- the purchase of new plant or substances
- the need to undertake risk assessments prior to commencing new activities
- the introduction of risk control measures.
How does consultation happen?
The University must, so far as reasonably practicable, consult with workers who are likely to be directly affected by health and safety matters. This includes giving workers a reasonable opportunity to express their views or raise issues about work health and safety at the workplace.
View the Safe Work Australia – How to consult with workers infographic to read how you can consult with workers in your team regarding health and safety matters.
Discussion and consultation about health and safety can take place in several ways:
- via your Health and Safety Representatives
- in University Health and Safety Committee (UHSC) meetings and subcommittees
- in staff meetings / toolbox talks
- regular staff updates and emails
- walking the floor and talking to workers.