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Gregory40320  
#1 Posted : 19 January 2011 21:20:14(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Gregory40320

A collegue who works for a small family run engineering Co (15 employees) is being disciplined for not putting his safety boots on as soon as he got to work (his cnc lathes was running, he was watching). The directors son, another director, the next day stood on a pallet on a fork truck (Photo evidence) to lift lights up (over 2m high) to allow a crane through. The company also have disabled some interlocks on CNC lathes so employees (and the directors son again) can polish turning items with emery cloth (video evidence). Lots more other things but not enough space to mention.
Is he being victimised for 'flouting' H&S procedures? What is his best option? I suppose a bit H&S and Employment issues together.
Any way forward would be appreciated.
Thanks.
ianjones  
#2 Posted : 19 January 2011 22:26:55(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
ianjones

firstly it seems a bit harsh but i do not know all the circumstances, a record of meeting would have sufficed

second

wow, they have serious issues, your friend could claim whistle blower rights and inform HSE, if you have this evidence then you can do it on his behalf

probable outcome in a small enterprise they will find a way to move him out

best answers

join or consult your union or organise the workforce to demand a union rep
get another job
raise your concerns in writing preferably by email for a paper trail
notify the HSe either directly or indirectly

how will you feel if someone is seriously hurt next week and you did nothing?

Jon B  
#3 Posted : 20 January 2011 12:26:14(UTC)
Rank: Guest
Guest

Regarding the boots if it's policy to wear them at all times then the employee has a duty to co-operate, irrespective if what he is doing. If it was a 'formal' warning that may seem harsh but is he a repeat offender or seen as a 'bad apple', are there others doing the same who have been 'let off'?

Regarding the others issue I suspect your on a hiding top nothing its it involves the directors or family. why the videoing? has there been an ongoing proble with H&S and have the management team been formally conacted regarding workforce concerns. I understand stand you may be concerned that by raising these issues you may feel you will become a target.

The first choice must always be to resolve inhouse and while you may get soem protection as a 'whistleblower' the stigma will likely remain for a long time. Having said that, the breaches you describe sound quite scary. You could always contact HSE anonomously for advice but i'd bet they would want to come out and visit.

Doing nothing is not really an option.
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