The benefits of becoming a health and safety representative and where to get training
Health and safety representatives (HSR) are extremely important for the heavy industries such as construction, chemical production, oil and gas, mining and more. Their main role is to be a voice for the workforce and to distribute information regarding safe work practices and safety issues.
They also monitor issues, investigate complaints and ensure everyone is adequately protected. It’s generally not a full-time job, but more an additional responsibility. If you’re thinking of taking on this role, let’s take a look at the many benefits and how you can get started.
Why become a HSR?
There are many great benefits to becoming a HSR. You get the chance to represent your colleagues and make a real difference to their health and wellbeing. If you enjoy looking after others and standing up for their rights, this is a role worth looking into.
Health and safety representatives are liked and respected. You’ll be the go-to person that people turn to for help and know they can trust. The role also allows you to gain more advanced knowledge of health and safety through the required training courses and this looks great on your CV.
How is a HSR appointed?
A HSR is usually elected by their work colleagues to represent them in matters of health and safety around the workplace. Some representatives can be trade-union appointed and while they have the same responsibilities, they also have extra duties required by the law.
Where to get health and safety representative training?
To become a HSR for your workplace, it’s important to take the right training course and to update your knowledge at regular intervals.
Link Resources provides two national accredited HSR courses:
Both these courses ensure that you have all the right knowledge and skills to be an effective HSR.
What do you learn in health and safety representative training?
The initial HSR course teaches you how to liase effectively with staff to identify any safety issues and the proper way to convey findings to management.
It’s recommended to have a basic understanding general health and safety to begin with and any specific training in areas that are significant to your industry. Your employer is required to let you to take time off for this training and subsequent refresher courses every three years.
What happens if you don’t do the HSR training?
After being appointed a HSR, you must complete the training within three months or step down from the role.
Book HSR courses with Link Resources
Link Resources offers the best health and safety representative training that’s nationally accredited. Check the next available start dates and click ‘Book Now’.