WorkPlus

The student will be shadowing the Health and Safety Team to gain practical insight into workplace safety protocols, risk assessments, and safety compliance procedures within the organisation. The placement will provide the student with an understanding of the day-to-day operations of the health and safety department, the importance of safety standards, and how these procedures are implemented in a real-world setting.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Health and Safety Inductions:
   • Attend and assist with health and safety induction sessions for new employees.
   • Observe how safety information is communicated and ensure all employees are aware of key safety procedures.
2. Risk Assessment Observations:
   • Observe and assist in conducting workplace risk assessments to identify potential hazards.
   • Learn how to assess risks and the steps required to mitigate them.
3. Health and Safety Inspections:
   • Accompany the Health and Safety team during routine safety inspections of the workplace.
   • Assist in the identification of safety hazards (e.g., fire exits, machinery, hazardous substances) and ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations.
4. Incident Reporting:
   • Learn how to report and document safety incidents and near misses.
   • Observe how the team investigates and follows up on health and safety concerns and reports.
5. Safety Audits:
   • Shadow the team during safety audits and inspections to ensure compliance with workplace safety standards and government regulations.
   • Assist in the collection of data and observation of key health and safety indicators.
6. Health and Safety Training Sessions:
   • Assist in the preparation and delivery of training sessions for staff on key health and safety topics (e.g., manual handling, fire safety, emergency procedures).
   • Observe how training is conducted and learn the key methods for delivering effective safety education.
7. Documentation and Record-Keeping:
   • Help maintain accurate records of safety audits, inspections, and training sessions.
   • Learn how to manage health and safety documentation in compliance with legal requirements.
8. Safety Meetings:
   • Attend and observe safety meetings or briefings with the health and safety team, management, or staff.
   • Participate in discussions on current safety issues, improvements, and any incidents or near misses.
9. Health and Safety Improvement Initiatives:
   • Assist with researching and brainstorming safety improvement initiatives.
   • Learn how to develop strategies and recommendations to enhance workplace safety and prevent accidents.

Learning Outcomes: By the end of the placement, the student will have a comprehensive understanding of the day-to-day operations of the Health and Safety Team, including the processes involved in identifying, managing, and mitigating workplace risks. They will have practical experience in safety inspections, risk assessments, and employee safety training, which will provide valuable skills for future roles in health and safety or related fields.

Dates

Helpful links

1. Interest in Health and Safety:
   • A genuine interest in health and safety procedures, workplace wellbeing, and risk management.
   • An understanding of the importance of creating safe work environments and minimising risks to health and safety.
2. Strong Communication Skills:
   • Ability to clearly communicate both verbally and in writing
   • Ability to listen carefully and follow instructions.
3. Team Player:
   • Ability to work well within a team, collaborating effectively with colleagues in the Health and Safety department.
   • Willingness to learn from others and contribute positively to the team environment.
4. Enthusiasm and Initiative:
   • A proactive approach to tasks and a willingness to take on new challenges.
   • Motivation to learn about workplace safety practices and contribute to the Health and Safety team's objectives.
5. Basic IT Skills:
   • Proficiency with basic office software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for tasks like recording data and preparing reports.
   • Ability to learn and use specific Health and Safety software or tools, if necessary.
6. Understanding of Confidentiality:

• Awareness of the importance of confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information, especially when documenting incidents or conducting assessments.