Key actions in supervising for health and safety effectively

Leaders

Define supervisors’ roles and responsibilities, and make sure they are trained and competent in carrying out their role, recognising the importance of supervision as a part of risk control
Make sure the supervisor/team leader has sufficient resources to deal with health and safety issues as part of ‘getting the job done’

Consider the level of supervision necessary for each task according to its complexity and level of risk. Recognise that differing levels of supervision may be needed at certain times, for example during shift changeover or where there are young or inexperienced workers
Include supervisors in assessing risks and managing the effects of any changes
Encourage supervisors/line managers to have a positive attitude to health and safety - they should lead by example and encourage safe systems of work
Make sure supervisors understand the job, so they can make effective, safe decisions. This includes checking that they understand what is expected of them, especially during an emergency
Confirm that supervisors have planned the work and allocated sufficient resources to allow tasks to be completed safely and without risks to health
Make sure that a good example is being set for the workers, and that supervisors enforce the rules
If more than one supervisor/line manager is involved in a process, make sure that communication, co-ordination and co-operation take place

Supervisors can help involve workers and their representatives:
- by facilitating discussions on the likely risks in their work and precautions they should take
- in the introduction of any measures that may affect their health and safety

Supervisors must be competent to supervise the workers, and know the critical safety aspects of the job