The Union has thousands of fully trained Health and Safety Reps who are determined to ensure both workplaces and working practices are safe. The Union also has a Health and Safety Section at Head Office staffed by experts who are available to offer guidance and advice.
Reps and officials not only work hard to prevent accidents but also play a vital part by working with management to ensure high safety standards.
While Usdaw’s emphasis is on accident prevention, reps can also advise members who are injured at work on their rights and, in conjunction with the Union’s direct claims line FirstCall Usdaw (0800 055 6333), the procedure for claiming compensation.
Health and safety covers a variety of issues including: personal protective equipment (eg safety shoes/hats), hot and cold temperatures, shift working, machinery, driving regulations, toilet facilities, industrial disease, fire regulations and much more.
The award-winning Freedom From Fear campaign launched in 2003 aims to protect workers from abuse, threats and violence in the workplace. The Union’s Safe Journeys campaign also promoted safe access to public transport and safety while travelling, particularly for its women members.
The Union has a range of informative booklets, leaflets, posters and other promotional material on health and safety that can be ordered from one of our local offices.
Regular features on health and safety including Q&As are carried in the Union’s in-house magazines arena and Network.