Who is responsible for establishing a Joint Health and Safety Committee in a workplace?

The responsibility for establishing a Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) in a workplace primarily falls on the employer. This requirement is integral to fostering a safe working environment and is mandated by health and safety legislation in many jurisdictions.

The employer plays a key role by initiating the formation of the committee, which consists of representatives from both management and workers. This collaborative approach ensures that various perspectives are considered when addressing health and safety issues. The employer is also responsible for providing the necessary resources and support to facilitate the committee's operations, ensuring that it can effectively identify, assess, and mitigate workplace hazards.

While workers and union representatives can contribute to the committee by participating as members, and health and safety officers may provide expertise and oversight, the initial establishment and ongoing support of the JHSC is ultimately the employer's responsibility.