PCS A to Z: Health and safety

Everyone has the legal right to work in a healthy and safe workplace.

Trade union health and safety reps have legal rights to carry out certain functions in workplaces, such as carrying out inspections and investigating hazards and accidents. During the Covid 19 pandemic, our health and safety reps were instrumental in working for the correct measures to be put in place in workplaces to protect PCS members and the public.

Research has shown that workplaces with union recognition and health and safety representatives experience around half the number of serious injuries of those without. This is because union health and safety representatives know the workplace, are supported by their union and are well trained.

Health and safety reps can also help with problems around work related stress and wider welfare issues.

PCS has around 1,200 accredited and trained health and safety reps. If you’re interested in getting involved, speak to your local rep or email healthandsafety@pcs.org.uk.

Not yet a member? Join PCS today.