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 Legal 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 legal action to seek compensation. An employment lawyer can help you understand your options and whether you have grounds for a claim.
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!
If you feel that your health and safety rights are not being upheld, or if you need support in dealing with workplace hazards, we can help – starting with a free consultation.
Fill out this form to get in touch – or contact us at [email protected], or on 027 425 2231.
Follow us for more tips and insights → Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook | TikTok
