Sections 19 and 20: Health and Safety Committees and Committee Functions

Understanding Health and Safety Committees under the OHS Act

Sections 19 and 20: Health and Safety Committees and Committee Functions explain how health and safety committees must be set up and what they should do at your workplace. These sections are important because they make sure that workers and employers work together to keep the workplace safe and healthy.

Section 19 says that if your workplace has more than 20 employees, the employer must create a health and safety committee. This committee is made up of both workers and management. The goal is to improve health and safety by sharing ideas and solving problems before accidents happen.

The committee must meet regularly, usually once every three months. Meetings can happen more often if there are serious risks to health and safety. All meetings should be recorded in writing, and a copy with the minutes must be accessible to everyone at the workplace.

Section 20 explains what the committee needs to do. Their main job is to help identify any health or safety problems in the workplace and suggest ways to fix them. They also help with:

• Checking accident reports to find causes and prevent future injuries
• Reviewing health and safety information and policies
• Promoting health and safety awareness among workers
• Making sure safety rules are followed
• Discussing any concerns raised by workers
• Advising on training for safe work practices

The committee acts as a communication link between employees and employers. Workers can report hazards or suggest improvements through the committee without fear of punishment. This helps create a safer workplace where everyone feels responsible for health and safety.

In summary, Sections 19 and 20: Health and Safety Committees and Committee Functions make it clear that health and safety must be a team effort. Employers must form committees, include workers, and use the committees to solve problems and improve safety. When done right, these committees help reduce accidents and create a healthy work environment for everyone.