May 2019 Q5.
The budget for Health and Safety of Be Careful Enterprise presented by the Finance Officer has doubled within two years. The owner of the business is considering cutting the budget for the next year by 50% to make way for an increase in the budget for Sales Promotion. He reasoned that health and safety measures are not critical to the financial fortunes of the business.
Required:
a) Outline FOUR (4) reasons why health and safety measures are important. (6 marks)
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- Employees should, as human beings, be protected from needless pain and suffering.
- Employers and employees have legal obligations to take reasonable measures to promote healthy and safe working.
- Accidents, illness and other causes of absence and impaired performance cost the organisation money.
- A business’ corporate image and reputation as an employer (its employer brand) may suffer if its health and safety record is bad: this might alienate customers and potential employees.
b) Outline SIX (6) employer responsibilities when it comes to health and safety. (9 marks)
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- To provide safe systems (work practices).
- To provide a safe and healthy work environment (well-lit, warm, ventilated, hygienic and so on).
- To maintain all plant and equipment to a necessary standard of safety.
- To support safe working practices with information, instruction, training and supervision.
- To consult with safety representatives appointed by a recognised trade union.
- To appoint a safety committee to monitor safety policy, if asked to do so.
- To communicate safety policy and measures to all staff, clearly and in writing.
- To identify employees who are especially at risk (legislation often cites pregnant women, young workers, shift-workers and part-time workers).
- To provide appropriate training in safety matters.
- To provide information to employees (including temporary workers) about health and safety.
- To employ competent safety and health advisors
c) Outline FIVE (5) employee responsibilities when it comes to health and safety. (5 marks)
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- Taking reasonable care of themselves and others affected by their acts or omissions at work.
- Co-operating with the employer in carrying out their duties (including enforcing safety rules).
- Not interfering intentionally or recklessly with any machinery or equipment provided in the interests of health and safety
- To inform the employer of any situation that may pose a danger to themselves or others.
- To provide information to employees (including temporary workers) about health and safety.