Health and Safety Executive launches workers' web page

A web page enabling workers to gain rapid access to information about their health and safety rights and responsibilities was launched in September by the Health and Safety Executive.

The Workers Web Page (www.hse.gov.uk/workers) covers the roles and responsibilities of employers and workers, problems in the workplace, making complaints including whistleblowing, reporting accidents, contact

points and further information.

The latest version of the Health and Safety Commission Section 18 guidance contains a number of new features which the TUC believes unions should be able to exploit. The guidance is in fact mandatory despite being called guidance.It covers all local authorities (LAs). If the Commission feels that a local authority is not meeting its responsibilities under Section 18, the Secretary of State can order a local enquiry to examine the issue (and, ultimately, transfer that authority's responsibilities to the HSE.)

The guidance requires LAs to consult with employees and their representatives on the enforcement policy and procedures and on drawing up a service plan.