WHO NEEDS THIS LETTER?

This letter is required for the person who is elected as the Chairperson for Health and Safety committee meetings.

WHAT IS THIS LETTER FOR?

This letter shows that a chairperson has been appointed to chair all health and safety committee meetings.

WHY IS THIS LETTER IMPORTANT?

This letter shows that a chairperson is in place who controls and guides the health and safety committee meetings held in the workplace. This provides evidence to an inspector that a basic structure is in place for committee meetings to be conducted in an organised and formal manner. This letter is mandatory under section 19(3) of the OHS Act and its availability shows that the employer is complying with these Regulations in respects of this appointment requirement. 

VALIDITY

This letter needs to be signed by the 16(2) (as the appointer) and by the appointee, dated and kept on record where it can be accessible to an inspector. A time period must be included for the appointment. The appointee must be a member of the health and safety committee in the workplace.

HOW DOES THIS WORK AS A CONTROL MEASURE?

In the hierarchy of controls this letter forms part of the administrative control measures which should be in place to ensure that health and safety committees form an active role in workplace health and safety. This letter ensures that a responsible person is appointed to chair health and safety meetings when they are conducted.