Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 November 2023
209. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which he remains satisfied regarding the adequacy of safety at work standards here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51753/23]
View answerIreland has a robust suite of occupational safety and health legislation which aims to ensure a high standard of safety practices at work.
Under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005 employers have an obligation to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of employees at work. Employers have a duty to undertake a risk assessment to identify the hazards in the workplace and to put in place appropriate controls to protect employees.
In addition, the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 address, in detail, specific aspects of work-related health and safety issues including the use of work equipment, night work and shift work, manual handling of loads and safety signs amongst others.
There are also sector-specific regulations and orders made under the 2005 Act, in fields such as Construction, Diving, Mines, Quarries etc. as well as a range of Codes of Practice which provide guidance and best-practice information to employers and employees.
All relevant Regulations are updated, as necessary, on a regular basis to ensure the highest standards regarding safety at work are maintained and in accordance with EU Directives as appropriate.
The 2005 Act also details the role and functions of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). The HSA is the national statutory body with responsibility for enforcing occupational safety and health law, promoting and encouraging accident prevention, and providing information and advice to all companies, organisations and individuals.
The HSA has its own health and safety inspectorate responsible for inspecting and enforcing occupational safety and health legislation.
Employers who breach health and safety regulations face a range of actions by the HSA up to and including prosecution action. Any employer or employee with a query or concern about workplace safety should contact the HSA at contactus@hsa.ie or by LoCall 0818 289 389.
