Effective Health and Safety Committees

Worker and management representatives who meet regularly to address health and safety issues in the workplace

Key responsibilities

• Assess hazards and risks, recommend control measures, and monitor follow-up actions
• Conduct workplace inspections
• Help address worker concerns and suggestions
• Participate in incident investigations as appropriate
• Help develop and evaluate safety policies, programs and procedures
• Assist with worker training and education

Tips for employers

• Provide training to members
• Provide enough time and resources for the committee to do its work
• Ensure the committee's recommendations are promptly considered
• Regularly review the committee’s effectiveness for continuous improvement

Tips for effective committees

• Establish written terms of reference for the committee
• Define and communicate roles and responsibilities
• Establish and adhere to a reporting structure and meeting guidelines
• Meet regularly – the frequency may be specified by law
• Set meeting times that are convenient for everyone and support full attendance
• Prepare and distribute agendas in advance for productive and efficient meetings
• Reach decisions by coming to a consensus instead of formal voting
• Record and share minutes summarizing key recommendations and decisions

Did you know?

A health and safety committee brings the internal responsibility system into practice. Employers and workers have a shared responsibility for health and safety, with employers having final authority and responsibility.