Posted By Barrie Hutton
The SRSC regs refers to the words independant investigations when it talks about inspections of workplaces. It doesn't mean that the union safety rep can carry out an inspection independantly of the employer because the regs allow for the employer to be present.

I am unable to find an interpretation of what this means in this context; has anyone come across this before. I think it may relate to the union bringing in 'experts' to carry out analysis/testing etc. but not sure

Any thoughts? Has anyone had a union rep qouting this right?

Posted By Jenny Hennin
I assumed this meant "independant of manager"; in other words if safety reps wanted to interview members involved in or witness to an accident/incident, without manager presence

Jenny Hennin

Posted By Raymond Rapp
Barrie

As I understand Reg 3 of the SR&SC Regs, it allows for an 'independant investigation' referring to the Safety Rep, in other words without the employer being actually present. Although the employer is entitled to be on site.

The wording is ambiguous and I suggest that the regulation alludes to the fact that the Guidance Note (21) state: '..see advantages in formal inspections jointly carried out by the employer..' In common parlance you have the right to tell your employer to ... off! if you so choose.

Hope this helps

Ray