Safety committees are a key component of safety in the workplace, offering an effective platform to get employees involved while creating greater interest in health and safety. They establish an opportunity to have safety concerns addressed, empowering employees with responsibilities and authority for safety improvements. Promoting cooperation and the exchange of ideas, they provide a central focus to allow the organization to review safety requirements and foresee potential issues.
The primary function of the Safety Committee is to bring to the forefront those issues that may impact the health and well being of our employees and customers, providing a forum for discussion, awareness, education and resolution. Each retail sector has different and complex safety issues that may confront them. Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- The review of recent accidents and injuries, “near misses,” and accident investigations to determine root causes
- The evaluation of corrective actions and recommendations for additional preventative measures
- The monitoring of specific safety metrics and targeted actionable items (such as fire extinguishers, ladder inspections, fire door tests, etc.) through audits and safety inspections
- The evaluation of other potential safety issues, and the development of cost-effective solutions for presentation to Senior Management
- Driving safety meetings, safety awareness and incentive programs.
The committee should be comprised of both management and non-management personnel. Schedules, attendance and meeting minutes are typically documented to track and support committee activities.
The presence of an active safety committee is a strong indicator that the company has a culture that promotes safe behavior and safe conditions. Safety Committees give all employees a voice, ensuring that management and non-management associates are looking at safety on a regular basis and bringing our entire work force together in a cooperative effort to promote health and safety in the workplace. This joint approach helps keep everyone on the same page and working together towards improving safety performance.
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