PRODUCTIVELY RESOLVE HEALTH AND SAFETY ISSUES

The issue resolution process should be defined and documented. Before it is implemented in the workplace, it should be reviewed and agreed to by the Workplace Health and Safety Committee. This review and approval process should be documented and records should be kept.

The issue resolution process should follow these steps:

• Identified issues should be brought to the attention of the line manager responsible for that work area, the Management Representative and the area’s Health and Safety Representative;
• If possible, the issue should be resolved promptly;
• If that is not possible, a temporary measure should be put in place, until a long-term solution can be implemented;
• Where applicable (e.g. life threatening situations) Health and Safety Representatives may issue a provisional Improvement Notice, or even order work cessation;
• The long-term resolution of issues should follow the hazard and risk management process.

Resolved issues should be communicated to, and reviewed by, the Workplace Committee. Solutions to issues and hazards should be incorporated in the relevant procedures and work instructions (as appropriate) and communicated to other work areas where it may be applicable.

Full records should be kept of issue notification, temporary measures utilised, the resolution process and any other relevant documents and correspondence.