Can the Chief Executive and other directors leave it to the health and safety director to ensure the proper management of health and safety within their organisation?
It is good practice and makes good business sense to have a board member with responsibility for health and safety. Some leading companies have made their Chief Executive responsible for health and safety. This sends out a clear signal that health and safety is an important aspect of the business. However, the guidance clearly states that board members are collectively responsible for providing leadership and direction on health and safety. The goal of effective management of occupational health and safety is more likely to be achieved where all board members have a proper understanding of the risks, the systems in place for managing the risks and an appreciation of the causes of any failures.
