Global Compact Self Assessment - Human Rights

HU.1.a. Health and safety systems

Does the company ensure that its workers are afforded safe, suitable and sanitary work facilities? (Principle 1)

ABOUT THIS QUESTION

The company should provide safe and healthy working facilities and take appropriate precautionary measures to protect employees from work-related hazards and anticipated dangers in the workplace. Safety precautions will depend upon the industry and country of operation, company concerns and the needs of vulnerable workers, such as pregnant women.

The question relates to the right to life, liberty and security of person and the right to health. It is based on general principles contained in the following: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), Article 25; International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (1966), Articles 7 (b) and 12 (2b); Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (1979), Article 11 (1f); ILO Hygiene (Commerce and Office) Convention (C120, 1964); ILO Occupational Health and Services Convention (C161, 1985), Article 5 (b); Tripartite Declaration on the Responsibilities of Transnational Corporations (1977), Article 38.

ANSWER THIS QUESTION

First answer the following indicators (step 1) and then the main question (step 2).

Step 1. Answer the following indicators:

The company has effective health and safety procedures in place, which comply with industry, national and international standards.

HU.1.A.1.

Health and safety information and procedures are available to employees in a language they understand.

HU.1.A.2.

Responsibilities for health and safety tasks are clearly defined.

HU.1.A.3.

Health and safety incidents are reported and investigated, and a confidential procedure is in place for receiving and handling health and safety complaints from employees.

HU.1.A.4.

The company routinely monitors its production processes, machinery and equipment to ensure that they are safe and in good working order.

HU.1.A.5.

Workers and managers are trained to respond to workplace emergencies; first aid kits and fire extinguishers are readily available; and escape exits are clearly marked and free from obstruction.

HU.1.A.6.

The workplace is maintained to ensure clean and comfortable conditions including a suitable temperature, ventilation and lighting; suitable washing and sanitation areas appropriate for both genders.

HU.1.A.7.

Residential or overnight facilities are safe and sanitary and meet the basic needs of workers including with regard to safety, space, temperature, lighting, ventilation, food, water, sanitary facilities, privacy, and affordability.

HU.1.A.8.

The company provides safe drinking water for all employees and facilities for clean and sanitary food storage and eating.

HU.1.A.9.

Where relevant the company has put in place special health and safety precautions for pregnant women, employees with disabilities, night workers, young workers and other vulnerable groups.

HU.1.A.10.

Step 2. Answer the main question:

Does the company ensure that its workers are afforded safe, suitable and sanitary work facilities?

HU.1.A.

HU.1.b. Protective equipment and training

Does the company supply its employees with the protective equipment and training necessary to perform their tasks safely? (Principle 1)

ABOUT THIS QUESTION

All workers must be trained for all tasks for which they are responsible prior to new assignments. Workers should not be exposed to harmful processes, chemicals, substances or techniques. When exposure is unavoidable, all workers exposed must be provided with the necessary protective equipment at no cost. Employees should be protected against processes, substances and techniques, which are obnoxious, unhealthy, toxic or harmful, including but not limited to the following: harmful chemicals or biological agents; noise; toxic fumes, emissions, smoke, gases, smells, or other forms of air pollution; vibration; radiation; electrical shocks and currents; flames; incendiary or explosive agents; snow, ice, or other slippery surfaces; extreme temperatures; falling objects; asbestos, coal, and other substances that cause respiratory ailments if inhaled or ingested; bright light or sun; dangerous machinery (e.g. saws, presses); lead and benzene; cigarette or cigar smoke; flying debris, particles or sparks.

The question relates to the right to health and is based on general principles contained in the following: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), Article 25; International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (1966), Articles 7 (b) and 12 (2b and c); ILO Occupational Safety and Health Convention (C155, 1981), Articles 16 (3) and 21], ILO Hygiene (Commerce and offices) Convention (C120, 1964), Article 17.

ANSWER THIS QUESTION

First answer the following indicators (step 1) and then the main question (step 2).

Step 1. Answer the following indicators:

The company has a procedure to ensure that all employees are provided, free of charge or deposits, with the protective equipment and training necessary to safely perform their job functions.

HU.1.B.1.

A company function or member of staff is responsible for keeping informed of scientific and technological developments regarding health and safety risks and protective equipment.

HU.1.B.2.

Employees are kept fully informed, in a language and form understandable to them, of any health and safety risks associated with their job functions, including requirements for protective equipment.

HU.1.B.3.

At a minimum of every two years, and when assigned to new tasks, employees receive training by a knowledgeable expert in the safe use of equipment and processes, and an accurate record is kept of who has been trained and for what tasks.

HU.1.B.4.

Step 2. Answer the main question:

Does the company supply its employees with the protective equipment and training necessary to perform their tasks safely?

HU.1.B.