Printing and Paper Industry

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act, employers are responsible for the health and safety management of their company and employees.  Management has the duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees and anyone else affected by their business.

The following health and safety roles apply to management:

• Assess and identify potential hazards by carrying out risk assessments on a regular basis.  These hazards may exist while particular work is being carried out, when products are being produced, stored or transported, and also when any equipment or machinery is operated.
• Establish precautionary measures to protect workers against these hazards
• Provide information on risks identified to all employees
• Clearly state how employees are protected and the procedures that need to be followed.
• Provide full training to all employees around health and safety
• Employers must consult with employees and the health and safety committee around health and safety issues
• Protective clothing and equipment must be provided to all workers
• Supervision must be allocated to a trained employee in all work areas.  All work done and equipment used must be supervised by someone who understands the hazards involved.
• Take steps to ensure that all staff members are compliant with requirements of the Act.