Policy
A WHS policy, or workplace health and safety policy, is a written statement that outlines an organization's commitment to promoting and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for its employees, contractors, visitors, and other stakeholders.
The policy should include the following elements:
Statement of commitment: This section should state the organization's commitment to providing a safe and healthy work environment for its workers and visitors.
Responsibilities: The policy should outline the responsibilities of management, supervisors, and employees with regards to health and safety in the workplace. It should be clear who is responsible for implementing and maintaining the policy.
Risk management: The policy should identify the potential hazards and risks associated with the work environment and provide a framework for assessing, controlling, and managing those risks.
Communication: The policy should outline how health and safety information will be communicated to workers, visitors, and other stakeholders. This includes training, signage, and other forms of communication.
Consultation and participation: The policy should establish a framework for consulting with workers and their representatives on health and safety matters, as well as encouraging their participation in the development and implementation of the policy.
Monitoring and review: The policy should include a process for monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the policy, including regular risk assessments and evaluations.
From a WHS point of view, having a robust and effective policy is essential for creating a culture of safety in the workplace. It helps to identify potential hazards and risks, and provides a framework for managing those risks. It also demonstrates the organization's commitment to the health and safety of its workers and visitors, which can help to improve morale, reduce absenteeism, and improve productivity. By outlining the responsibilities of management, supervisors, and workers, the policy ensures that everyone is aware of their role in maintaining a safe work environment. The policy should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in the work environment and new legislation or regulations.