Health and safety
The conditions for health and safety at work has long been a top priority for GMB and for all our members. 0ver 90% of accidents are preventable according to the Health and Safety Executive – and over 70% can be attributed to lack of action by mangers. The GMB’s approach to health and safety puts prevention at the centre of our aims.
GMB Safety Representatives
The “front-line” of the GMB’s health and safety service is provided by the Safety Representatives appointed by GMB members at workplaces throughout the Region. Safety Reps are the workers watchdogs and voice on health and safety at the workplace.
Almost all companies where the GMB has recognition there will be at least one Safety Rep. Very often this will be the same person who takes on the role as shop steward or workplace representative.
Safety Rep’s have extensive legal rights. Workplaces with Safety Representatives show an accident rate half that of workplaces without any union presence.
GMB members are encouraged to turn to their Safety Rep first when they have a health and safety problem or concern at work which has not been resolved by the employer. Safety Reps are able to access a range of training programmes via the GMB and are supported by GMB Branches and full time GMB Officers.
GMB Safety Reps are also backed up by the Regional Health and Safety Service (see link on menu) headed by the Regional Health and Safety Officer, based at Nottingham. Ring 0115 9601105 or email .