HSE consults reps on safety and equality

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is eager to hear from union safety reps on issues linking equality and safety.

Last month the HSE published a consultation document, Equality schemes framework, inviting views on its own proposed disability and gender equality schemes - but with a deadline for responses of 18 October.

Speaking to Workplace Report earlier this month, Cath Cottam from the HSE's external diversity team apologised for the brevity of the consultation, explaining that it was necessary because the HSE - like all other public authorities - must publish a disability equality scheme by 4 December.

However, she insisted that the HSE does still want to engage with safety reps on matters of gender, race, disability and other equality issues, and is looking for "continuous long-term involvement" by safety reps in bringing safety and equality concerns together.

Safety reps wanting to discuss equality matters with Cath Cottam can call 0115 971 2870 or e-mail [email protected]