I am considering promoting an existing employee to a supervisor, what health and safety responsibilities should I ensure they are made aware of at the level of employment?
A supervisor should be expected to comprehensively understand their work activities, including the hazards, risks and their controls measures to control them so they can instruct workers about the work methods and procedures. In addition:
- They will be required to maintain discipline among the workers and lead by example.
- They may be required to supply necessary materials and control quality and cost of the job.
- They should be capable of guiding workers in doing a job in the correct and safe way.
- Ensure suitable personal protective equipment is supplied and worn by workers.
- They should attend periodical safety meetings, deliver toolbox talks and safety briefs.
- They should be competent to conduct safety inspections of working areas.
- They should also know to investigate an incident and determine the causes.
- Additional training at this level should be provided, which will clearly define the health and safety responsibilities associated with a supervisory role.
