Every employee has the right to work in an environment that is safe and free from hazards that could harm their well-being. While employers have a duty to protect their workers, employees also have responsibilities to contribute to a safe workplace. Understanding both your rights and responsibilities is crucial to maintaining a healthy and secure work environment.
In this blog post, we will cover your rights to health and safety at work, what to do if you are concerned about unsafe working conditions, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your colleagues.
What to Do if You Are Concerned About Unsafe Working Conditions
If you are concerned about health and safety risks in your workplace, it’s essential to take appropriate action. Here are the steps you can take:
1. Talk to Your Employer or Supervisor
The first step is to bring up your concerns with your employer or supervisor. It’s important to clearly explain the hazard you’ve identified, why it’s a concern, and how it could potentially harm you or others. Many issues can be resolved by simply communicating them to the employer, who may not be aware of the risk.
2. Report the Hazard in Writing
If your employer does not address your concerns, or if the risk continues, you should consider submitting a written report outlining the hazard and its potential impact. This creates a formal record of the issue and can be helpful in case further action is required.
3. Contact Your Health and Safety Representative
If your workplace has a designated health and safety representative (HSR), you can contact them for support. They are trained to handle health and safety concerns and can work with management to ensure that issues are addressed.
4. Seek Advice from WorkSafe New Zealand
If you’ve taken the appropriate steps to raise your concerns internally but the issue persists, you can contact WorkSafe New Zealand. WorkSafe is responsible for enforcing health and safety laws in New Zealand and can investigate complaints, issue warnings, and take enforcement action against employers who fail to meet their obligations.
5. Consider Taking Action if Necessary
If you have suffered an injury or illness due to unsafe working conditions, and your employer has failed to address the problem, you may be able to take action to seek compensation. An employment relations specialist can help you understand your options and whether you have grounds for a claim.
Conclusion
Your health and safety at work are fundamental rights that should be protected by both your employer and you as an employee. By understanding your rights to a safe work environment, the right to report hazards, and the steps you can take if you are concerned about unsafe conditions, you can help ensure that your workplace remains safe for everyone.
We can Help!
Our expert team will help you understand your employment rights, and pursue resolution (including compensation) through various channels, such as: Without prejudice negotiations, mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, or Employment Court if required.
We also work on a no-win, no-fee basis – if we win your case, your employer covers the costs.
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