Supervising for safety in woodworking – HSE’s updated guidance

Employers have to make sure supervisors receive adequate health and safety training. This should include training in how to use the work equipment under their control, the risks involved and the precautions to take. Revised guidance has been issued on the important role of a supervisor in making the workshop safe – like it or not, they are management’s ‘eyes and ears’ on the shop floor. However, accident investigations have shown that supervisors are often unaware of their responsibilities and do not see themselves as part of the management team. The HSE have updated its guidance note on good practice which you may find helpful in considering what you need to do.