Supervision
Effective supervision means closely monitoring employees’ work practices and conditions, correcting any unsafe work habits and being available for questions. Supervisors need to have a strong understanding of health and safety best practice and an ability to build positive working relationships.
Supervisors can often be young workers themselves, so it is important that as an employer you provide them with ongoing support and advice in the same manner as you would for all young workers.
It is important for supervisors to:
- Understand the risks and control measures connected with the tasks young workers are doing
- Refresher training should be provided to supervisors on a regular basis so that they maintain their competence
- Ensure that young workers are closely and competently supervised until they can demonstrate that they can work safely
- Continue to ensure ongoing responsible and mature supervision is provided, by maintaining an awareness of work requirements, including health and safety requirements, and an appreciation of the risks involved in the tasks young workers are doing
- Establish and maintain open lines of communication
- Be available to answer questions and provide advice. Supervisors should discuss with young workers the best way to approach them when they are unsure about a task or need advice
- Emphasise the importance of prompt reporting of unsafe conditions and health and safety concerns so that immediate action can be taken to resolve the issue
- Explain health and safety policies and procedures and ensure that all employees, including young workers, follow them. If they are not followed, find out why and take swift action to correct this.
- Encourage supervisors to periodically take young workers on health and safety walk-through inspections to spot hazards and any unsafe work practices
- Lead by example – always reinforce health and safety on the job and wear/use required personal protective equipment.
