Health and safety in the work environment: the view from the industry
Buchanan, J.S. (1992). Health and safety in the work environment: the view from the industry, in: De Pauw, N. et al. (Ed.) Aquaculture and the Environment: reviews of the International Conference Aquaculture Europe '91, Dublin, Ireland, June 10-12, 1991. EAS Special Publication, 16: pp. 381-392 In: De Pauw, N.; Joyce, J. (Ed.) (1992). Aquaculture and the Environment: Reviews of the International Conference Aquaculture Europe '91, Dublin, Ireland, June 10-12, 1991. Special Publication European Aquaculture Society, 16. European Aquaculture Society: Gent. ISBN 90-71625-10-9. 536 pp., more In: Special Publication European Aquaculture Society. European Aquaculture Society: Bredene. ISSN 0774-0689, more |
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| Abstract | The importance of health and safety in many industrial situations is often underestimated -until problems arise. Employers and employees in all areas of industry have a number of obligations under the law in relation to health and safety at work, although the legislation can be exceedingly complex and wading through the relevant Acts and the various regulations can produce headaches, especially for smaller companies. With this in mind the Scottish Salmon Growers Association has produced guidelines for the industry and this document forms the basis of the present study which also reviews the legislation applicable to salmon farming operations. In the UK employers are required to produce a company safety policy statement and written methods of work for areas of potential risk. There are also statutory procedures for reporting accidents and injuries. There are a number of official guidance notes which give specialist advice in identified topics such as cage design, diving, the use of cranes and hoists as well as requirements for sea-going workboats of less than 24m. For the purposes of this review, the working environment has been divided into two areas -ashore and afloat. Guidelines have been produced for fish farms ashore covering access and housekeeping, welfare facilities, fire precautions, first aid, plant and equipment, manual lifting and handling and chemicals. The working environment afloat is covered by regulations goveming Department of Transport requirements for sea-going workboats and their operation including construction, certification, stability, personnel protection, lifesaving equipment, fire appliances, navigation, propulsion, steering, manning and operator qualifications and a Health and Safety Executive document entitled "advice for floating fish farm installations" covering construction and maintenance of cages, safety and rescue equipment, protective clothing, shelter, and electrical power and lighting, communications, diving, first aid and occupational hazards. Training is an integral part of safety .The industry is currently developing a series of occupational competence standards for training providers. Finally, the role of Trade Associations in negotiating with statutory bodies on legislative issues and in the limitation of the bureaucratic burden on the industry is discussed. |
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