Working in RoI I HSA Update
.png)
What to Expect When a Safety Inspector Calls
Knowing what to expect when a health and safety inspector calls can often help alleviate any alarm or fear, and can lead to a more productive conversation on workplace safety with the employer, manager, safety representative or employees.
Workplace health and safety inspections happen frequently, and across all workplaces yet for those who have never experienced one, it may be a cause of concern if you are unsure as to what to expect. With up to 10,000 inspections completed by inspectors in the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) across Ireland each year, the publication of their helpful leaflet “Why a Health and Safety Inspector Calls to your Workplace”, answers many questions.
Starting with the reason why an inspector might arrive at your workplace, and not someone else’s, the leaflet explains it may be part of a routine inspection, to investigate a reported workplace incident, or it may be due to a complaint from a member of the public. Whilst most of these inspections are unannounced, busy employers and managers can also use it as an opportunity to learn more about safety standards and requirements, which can help them and their worker’s stay both compliant and safe.
Safety Representative
When an inspector arrives, they will present an identification card, and workplaces are legally required to facilitate the inspection promptly and provide any reasonable information that the inspector requires. If there is a safety representative present, they may speak to and accompany the inspector during the inspection.
Generally, inspectors will give some advice on improvements which can be made, which can form part of the overall conversation, ideally with a senior person or someone in charge who has authority in the workplace. Any required improvements or actions can also be written down onto a document, for example a ‘Report of Inspection’ document, Improvement Notice or Prohibition Notice’. In the event of a more serious incident, an inspector may call to complete an investigation, which is also part of their role.
The HSA’s leaflet confirms that a visit by an inspector is not just about examining for safety issues, it is also intended to help identify areas for improvement, and to inform and educate those responsible for safety in the workplace.
Article by Margaret Kirby and shared with kind permission from Health & Safety Review magazine.
