The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted why workplace safety is so important. But we can’t make workplaces across the public sector safe without YOU.
The words Health and Safety may conjure up visions of clipboards, regulations and paperwork, but it’s really not like that.
Being a Safety rep means you will be playing a crucial role in making sure your workplace is safe, secure and clean for all your colleagues and service users.
You’ll also gain new skills and meet others who are passionate about workplace safety.
Health and safety representatives care about their co-workers’ safety and help push for better working conditions. They play a vital role in keeping everyone you work with healthy and safe from Covid-19. They:
- champion safe working practices to help look after everyone
- speak to colleagues about working conditions
- help make sure everyone can access the right protective equipment
- highlight to managers any issues they’re aware of
- actively get involved with improving risk assessments and workplace inspections
- communicate with other reps in the branch and region
UNISON safety representatives have a specific role and also have important legal rights. Our health and safety representatives have the right to time off for training and are protected when they raise issues which affect the health and safety of members.
We’re running regular webinars to give new reps the information they need quickly. You will always be supported by more experienced reps.
If you’re interested in knowing more and helping to keep the people you work with safe from Covid-19, please fill in the form on the national UNISON website and a UNISON representative will be in touch with you soon.
Click here to complete the form
UNISON has put together a wealth of information to support our members and reps with everything you need to know about your rights at work during the Covid-19 pandemic.
