Purpose of a Health and Safety Statement
A Health and Safety (H&S) Statement is a concise document that expresses an organisation’s commitment to managing health and safety risks in the workplace. It is often the first part of a formal health and safety policy and serves as a high-level declaration of the organisation's intentions, principles, and approach to maintaining a safe and healthy working environment. While the statement outlines the "why," the policy explains the "how." Together, they form a complete health and safety framework for the organisation.
Who Needs a H&S Statement?
Under UK law, every business must have a health and safety policy if they employ five or more people. The H&S statement forms the first part of this policy. Even if the organisation has fewer than five employees, having a clear H&S statement is considered good practice.
A Health and Safety (H&S) Statement shows that the organisation values the health, safety, and welfare of employees, contractors, visitors, and others who may be affected by its activities. It helps meet legal obligations under regulations like the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Additionally, having a written statement is beneficial, as it is usually the first H&S document required in job tenders.
Key Components of a H&S Statement
- Commitment to Health and Safety:
- A pledge to ensure a safe working environment and prevent harm.
- A promise to comply with relevant health and safety laws and regulations.
2. Objectives:
- Examples include identifying and assessing risks, ensuring safe working conditions, providing suitable and well-maintained equipment, promoting health and safety awareness, and establishing emergency procedures.
3. Responsibilities:
- A clear indication of who is responsible for health and safety (e.g., senior management).
4. Consultation and Involvement:
- A commitment to involve employees in health and safety matters.
- provide relevant information and necessary training to employees.
- obtaining expert advice necessary to determine the risks to safety and health at work and the relevant precautions.
5. Continuous Improvement:
- A statement about regular monitoring, review, and updating of health and safety practices.
Who Should Sign the H&S Statement?
Ideally, the highest-ranking officer in the organisation, such as the Managing Director (MD) or CEO, should sign the H&S statement. This demonstrates a strong commitment from senior leadership. If the MD or CEO is unavailable, a senior leader within the organisation may sign it on their behalf.
If your organisation has a board of directors, ensure that they review and approve the health and safety statement prior to signing. The HSE recommends appointing one director as the focal point for health and safety. This director would represent the board and be responsible for signing the H&S statement.
This practice facilitates the board's ability to fulfil its health and safety responsibilities and ensures that significant health and safety issues are effectively communicated throughout the organisation.
However, it's important to emphasize that designating a specific health and safety director should not diminish the responsibilities of other directors in their respective areas of health and safety management. Additionally, it should not lessen the overall health and safety responsibilities of the board as a collective.
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