Activity 4

Read the below case study in relation to effective consultation:

A transport company operates around the clock and has 200 workers. Workgroups have been established covering workers working across three shifts, each of which is represented by a health and safety representative. A health and safety committee has been established and is made up of health and safety representatives and some management representatives who hold senior positions in the organisation.

The membership of the committee was determined via extensive consultation with health and safety representatives and workers.

When the company identified the need to move to new premises, it recognised this had the potential to affect workers. The committee played a major role in getting input from health and safety representatives about warehouse layout, ergonomics, selection of new equipment and machinery, traffic management, access/egress and emergency procedures. Regular site visits were arranged to the new premises to view progress and provide advice.

1. Who should be consulted and why?
2. How consultation should occur?