Health and Safety Policy

1. Policy Statement

Guidance: As per Section 7 of the OHS Act, every employer must have a written policy concerning the protection of the health and safety of their employees. This statement outlines that commitment.

[Company Name] is committed to providing and maintaining, as far as is reasonably practicable, a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health of our employees and any other persons who may be directly affected by our activities.

2. Objectives

Guidance: These objectives translate the policy statement into actionable goals.

To achieve this, our principal objectives are to:

• Comply with all applicable OHS legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and its regulations.
• Systematically identify hazards, assess risks, and implement effective control measures to prevent injuries and ill-health.
• Provide all necessary information, instruction, training, and supervision to enable employees to work safely.
• Ensure the provision and maintenance of safe plant, machinery, and systems of work.
• Promote consultation and cooperation between management and employees on all health and safety matters.
• Strive for continual improvement in our health and safety performance.

3. Responsibilities

Guidance: The OHS Act assigns specific legal duties. Clearly defining them here ensures accountability.

• Top Management (CEO): Is accountable for ensuring this policy is implemented and that resources are available (OHS Act, Section 16.1).
• Managers and Supervisors: Are responsible for implementing the policy within their areas of control and ensuring employees are trained and supervised.
• All Employees: Have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others, to comply with all safety rules, and to report any unsafe conditions or acts (OHS Act, Section 14).

4. Arrangements for Implementation

We will implement this policy through a comprehensive OHS management system which includes risk assessments, safe work procedures, emergency planning, incident investigation, and regular audits and inspections.

5. Policy Review

This Health and Safety Policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if required by changes in legislation or our operations, to ensure it remains relevant and effective.