Health and Safety

Question 1

What are the measures an organisation could take to ensure it complies with health and safety legislation regarding the use of IT in the workplace (7)

Answer 1

An organisation should:
• Assess any risks related to employees using IT equipment - and take whatever action is required to minimise or eliminate risks
• Ensure all employees receive relevant training in the use of IT equipment and procedures – updating this training regularly as required
• IT equipment is regularly checked and maintained to ensure that it is safe to use with regards to wiring/plugs
• Provide any necessary additional equipment ie wrist rests, ergonomic desks and seating to prevent injury to employees – DNA comfort
• Allow employees to take regular breaks if working with IT equipment for extended periods of time - this will avoid eye-strain, neck/back strain and fatigue
• Offer, on request, regular eye tests for employees who work with IT regularly. DNA accept sent
• Make sure that workstations meet minimum safety requirements in terms of display settings and controls

Question 2

Outline the role of the Health and Safety Executive (4)

Answer 2

• Enters and inspects companies’ premises, sometimes unannounced, to ensure standards are kept
• Provide advice and guidance to improve standards
• Can shut down premises when judged necessary
• Fine or prosecute

Question 3

What are the consequences of breaching Health and Safety legislation to an organisation (6)

Answer 3

1. Unwanted media attention
2. Poor reputation affects ability to attract new customers and retain existing ones
3. Affect bottom / profits
4. Could be shutdown by HSE or local government environment health
5. Sued
6. Fines

Question 4

What are the consequences of breaching Health and Safety legislation to an employee (4)

Answer 4

• Verbal and written warning
• Dismissal
• Employer might not give you a reference, which means more difficult to find a job
• In extreme cases prosecution

Question 5

What are the key features of the H&S at Work Act 1974 from an employer point of view? (9)

Answer 5

• Employers must provide a safe work environment for employees
• Employers must train employees on Health and Safety
• Ensure entrances and exits are clearly marked
• Provide safe equipment and machinery and ensure it is regularly checked and maintained
• Display information on H&S information on notice boards
• Provide a H&S policy which is kept up to date and available to all staff
• Communicate clear procedures to deal with accidents in the workplace
• Ensure all accidents are accurately recorded
• Provide a H&S rep to represents all employees’ H&S needs

Question 6

What are the key features of the H&S at Work Act 1974 from an employee point of view? (8)

Answer 6

• Cooperate with H&S policies and take all reasonable care of themselves and other employees
• immediately report any faults with machines and equipment
• Wear protective clothing when it has been issued to them
• Always follow guidelines when operation machinery and equipment
• Never operate machines and equipment they are not trained or authorised to use
• cooperate with the employer by attending training courses
• ensure they are familiar with the company’s H&S policy
• Be observant and report any hazards in the workplace

Question 7

What are the features of Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992? (5)

Answer 7

• Employees should be able to take breaks when working on a computer VDU for a long period of time
• Provide eye tests for employees who work on computers, and glasses or contact lenses when needed
• Examine workstations and ensure whether they are suitable for the work to be carried out
• Ensure that work stations meet minimum requirements; the VDU can be adjusted for brightness and contrast; adjustable chairs are provided; footrests are provided if requested; keyboards can be adjusted and are separate from the screen
• Provide H&S training to ensure VDUs and workstations are used safely