Scottish Hazards is a charity that aims to prevent work-related injury and illness by providing health and safety advice and support to workers who are not in trade unions. Scottish Hazards works collaboratively with Trade Unions, the STUC (Scottish Trade Unions Congress), and Citizens Advice Bureaus.
In this article, Gordon shares his account of the recent conference that he attended, held by Scottish Hazards:
I attended the Scottish Hazards conference, along with around 70 other Health and Safety (H&S) Reps from all sectors ranging from Ship Building to Railways to Education to Social Care.
A wide range of topics were covered throughout the day, including discussions around occupational health services, and how with an ageing population we need to look at improving ‘Functional Capacity’ so that we can all work to our full potential as we get older. This discussion was led by Professor Ewan MacDonald (University of Glasgow). The biggest factor in the ending of our work careers is the number of diagnosed medical conditions we have. As we get older, we tend to develop more medical conditions. The discussions focussed on how occupational health should be used to support adjustments to the workplace, not to manage people out of work.
Several workshops took place during the day, one focused on Mental Health and Wellbeing and its impact. A question that was raised was around ‘what could H&S Reps do?’ Discussions then focused on supporting work colleagues. Several of those attending discussed the role of Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA). It was felt that having MHFA’s in the workplace was a positive thing. This is for both colleagues who may need support and signposting, as well as for the Reps who feel better when able to offer support. Myself and most of my colleague Reps in Boots are fully trained in MHFA, it was rewarding to hear the positivity within the group around the impact MHFA’s can have in the workplace.
Other issues discussed at the conference included a review of the H&S at Work Act and if it is still fit for purpose. There was also a presentation on the presence of asbestos in public buildings and the unwillingness of government to act on this.
The day was finished off by Dave Moxham, Deputy General Secretary at STUC, who gave a brief overview of the proposed Employment Rights Bill which is currently going through Parliament.
All in all, it was a very interesting and engaging day, which reinforces my feelings that having an independent voice that can challenge an employer regarding Health and Safety is a very positive thing.
If you would like to know more about being a H&S Rep in your workplace, please feel free to contact me via [email protected]
Gordon Finlayson (pictured on the right) with Kathy Jenkins (pictured on the left), Secretary of Scottish Hazards
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