Supervisors are important to safe workplaces because they are closest to the actual work being done and can address and resolve workers' health and safety concerns.
A supervisor is an individual who is authorized by an employer to oversee or direct the work of the employer's workers.
Under The Saskatchewan Employment Act, supervisors must:
- understand and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety requirements;
- co-operate with the occupational health committee, ensure that it functions properly, and ensure all workers support committee members in their health and safety activities;
- make sure hazards are identified and proper steps are taken to eliminate the hazards or control the risks;
- inspect work areas and correct unsafe acts and conditions;
- instruct and coach workers to follow safe work procedures;
- ensure only authorized, competent workers operate equipment;
- ensure equipment is properly maintained;
- ensure the necessary personal protective equipment is provided to workers and used properly;
- know how to safely handle, store, produce, and dispose of chemical and biological substances at the workplace;
- understand and implement emergency procedures;
- report and investigate incidents (meaning accidents and dangerous occurrences);
- promote health and safety awareness;
- co-operate with other parties in dealing with health and safety issues;
- ensure that workers under their direct supervision are sufficiently supervised; and
- ensure that workers under their direct supervision are not exposed to harassment or violence at their workplace.