Posted By GARRY WIZZ
I would have concluded that prior to this event there must have been a significant problem with the communication process.This may have been by one or both parties.

I would have to suggest that the most appropriate action is for all concerned to speak with the aim of establishing a safe working environment.

I would as I have had to do before pull the union to one side in the coffee shop and remind them,

Your job is the safety of the work force and you have the legislative means to achieve that.Walking away does not square with your elected duties.

Unions can sometimes lose direction.

As the H&S person it most likely comes down to you to bridge the gap. I have always had one foot in each camp to achieve good results.

Garry

Posted By Pete48
Micheal, obviously something is not quite right here and it does need sorting out.
You might find this link helpful in helping to clarify some of the process issues involved.
http://www.acas.org.uk/media/pdf/8/d/B06_1.pdf
Consultation, communications and collective bargaining can be a very confusing arena. Good luck with the solution which may be as easy as reducing the mgmt presence on the committee but I doubt it.
Good luck.

Posted By Alan Hoskins
Hi Michael,

Since Consultative Safety Committees are set up at the request of the TU, I suppose they could theoretically request their disbanding. Nothing in legislation to allow for this though.

Also I don't think there is anything in legislation to suggest that management and TU representation has to be equal, although in good committees it usually is.

The requirement is to consult with Safety Representatives so this does not necessarily require a formal committee.

Since you have one though, it would be better to explore the reasons why the TUs have arrived at this position - likely to be other issues involved I suspect.

A

Posted By Ken Taylor
Could you tell us how, Michael?