What is a SHE REP?

There have been many times in the past where I have asked a client or a friend if they have designated a SHE REP... Thats when I get this puzzled look on their face like I have asked them to explain what a Priapism is. (You should look it up, its quite interesting :)) So I am going to explain what the SHE REP does and what their responsibilities are.

What is a SHE Rep? 

A Health and Safety Representative may be seen as the “voice” of the people 
through which matters of safety and health can be attended to. 

What are the functions of the Health and Safety rep? 

The rights, duties and functions of Health and Safety Representatives are 
stipulated in the OHS Act 1993 and include: 

 Review the effectiveness of health and safety measures. 

 Identify potential hazards and major 
incidents at the workplace. 

 Assist his employer in establishing the cause 
of incidents at workplace. 

 Investigate employees’ complaints 
regarding health and safety at the 
workplace. 

 Make representations regarding the above 
to the employer, health and safety 
committee and the inspector. 

 Make representations to the employer in 
general with regard to health and safety in 
the workplace. 

 Inspect the workplace at agreed intervals, 
the representative must also give 
reasonable notice of his intention to do so, 
as employees may wish to present. 

 Participate with, and accompany inspectors (Dep. of Labour) during their inspections. 

 Receive information from inspectors with respect to any request they may have submitted 
to him. 

 Attend the health and safety committee meeting. 

According to the OHS Act, health and safety representatives are entitled to the following: 

 Visit the scene of an accident and attend meetings “in loco” (at the scene). 

 Attend investigations or enquiries held by inspectors. 

 Inspect any document department by the employer that may require, carrying out his 

duties. 

 Accompany an inspector on inspections. 

 With the employer’s approval, a technical advisor to may accompany him on any 

inspections. 

 Accompany an inspector on inspection 

 Participate in health and safety audit

A Health and Safety Representative my not incur any civil 
liability with regard to their duties 

All the activities of representatives will be carried out in working 

hours, as if they were part of his working day. 

I really hope this sums it up for you...