The frame work directive applies to all sectors of work both public and private. Its sets out a number of general obligations that employers must follow, these include:
- Avoiding risks
- Evaluating risks which cannot be avoided
- Adapting the work to the individual’s need – in particular the design of the workspace, the choice of equipment and production methods
- Giving appropriate instruction to workers to confirm a collective preventative and protective approach is taken
The employer MUST take into consideration changing circumstances and must provide training and continually monitor health and safety of the workforce.
The idea is to ensure that your employer takes action to prevent accidents occurring – “Prevention is better than cure” and all that!
Employees responsibilities:
The health and safety regulations highlight responsibilities for the employee as well. The employee must also play their part in the prevention of accident in the work place. Some burden of responsibility is placed on the employee and if this responsibility is breached, then the employee can be found ‘contributory negligent’ if an accident occurs (this means they may be partially to blame for their injuries and any work injury compensation they are owed, will be reduced accordingly).
Such responsibilities include:
- Using any machinery/ equipment/ substances etc in accordance with training which has been provided and also any instructions received on how to use it
- Making full use of any systems and safety equipment provided