Constructing a Policy
A written Health and Safety Policy is a legal requirement if a company employs five or more employees. The main elements of a Health and Safety Policy are:-
The General Statement:
This is the declaration of the employers intent to provide and maintain, so far as is reasonably practicable, a safe and healthy working environment and to enlist the support of employees towards achieving these ends. The statement should be signed by the employer or Managing Director, to demonstrate commitment to Health and Safety.
The Organisation:
To be fully effective, the policy should detail health and safety responsibilities within the organisation. Where appropriate, key individuals or their job titles should be named, and responsibilities defined within a job description.
The Arrangements:
This part of the policy will need to cover the systems and procedures in place for ensuring employees health and safety throughout the organisation.