Issue - meetings

To provide the Staff Committee with an overview of the Council’s Corporate Health & Safety Annual Report 2018/19.

Members considered the Corporate Annual Health & Safety Report 2018/19 presented by Sam Anthony. 

Members made comments, asked questions and received responses as follows:

·       Councillor Mason said that of the two main high risk areas, the Base and Wisbech Port, there is no specific mention of any marine training at the Port and asked for further information. Sam Anthony responded that Port Services have their own safety group with a port marine safety code. The panel meets quarterly and includes the Corporate Director, Harbour Master, key marine staff and an independent person to ensure health and safety compliance. This information can be incorporated into next year’s report for clarity. Councillor Mason said this would be very useful.

·       Councillor Mrs French asked why the report gave only an approximate number of employees. Sam Anthony advised that the number fluctuates hence the approximation, although this figure would have been correct at the time of the report being printed.

·       Councillor Boden stated that this is a good report but it is important to note that there were three RIDDOR reportable accidents. Although all three were correctly reported to the HSE, who subsequently took no further action, he felt it needed to be recorded that this Committee is aware of them and although these incidents were regrettable, it would be hoped that this figure will be zero this year. We must be alert to any trends which exist and to any messages that there may be within these reports.

·       Councillor Bristow asked how frequently play areas are inspected, and are these visual checks or by means of testing the equipment? Sam Anthony advised she would check and confirm this information.

·       Councillor Yeulett asked if we differentiate between accidents and incidents. Sam Anthony confirmed that we do and that all accidents and near misses are recorded and investigated to identify trends and training needs. The Health & Safety Panel meets quarterly and reviews all accidents and near misses.

·       Councillor Yeulett asked if there was a common thread to the 15 accidents recorded for the Communities, Environment and Leisure Team. Sam Anthony confirmed these were mainly slips and trips relating to the Refuse and Cleansing teams.  Although these teams have the correct PPE and footwear, they are out on the Highway in all weathers, often walking on uneven or slippery pavements.

·       Councillor Bristow asked if we receive reports of accident reports from our contracted services, particularly the leisure centres. Sam Anthony responded that we do not receive reports in the same way that we used to when staff were employed by the Council, but as part of the leisure contract arrangements we have asked for an annual summary of staff training and accidents. However there is no data available yet, as it has not been a full year since the transfer.

·       Councillor Cornwell asked if we receive any data in relation to the grounds maintenance contractors, as even though we are not responsible for them, they are primarily working on our property. Sam Anthony advised that she understands  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5