Health, Safety and Wellbeing Policy

The Council responsibilities

The Council carries ultimate responsibility for the health and safety of everyone who could be harmed by University activities, both on and off, University-occupied premises. 

The Council must: 

• be aware of the importance of health, safety and wellbeing, and the risks faced by the University and its objectives 

• ensure that the University has a written Statement of Policy on Health, Safety and Wellbeing, along with effective arrangements (Health and Safety Protocols), risk control measures and resources to implement it 

• approve the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Policy in conjunction with the Vice-Chancellor and President 

• ensure there is an effective mechanism to communicate and consult with staff on health, safety and wellbeing matters 

• ensure that a University-level Health, Safety and Wellbeing Committee meets regularly, in line with the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Committee Protocol 

• ensure facilities are provided for recognised Trade Unions to appoint safety representatives and enable them to discharge their responsibilities 

• receive an annual report and regular performance updates from the University Health, Safety and Wellbeing Committee, including health and safety Key Performance Indicators (HSKPIs), reviews, audits, opportunities for improvements etc 

• be notified of any incidents carrying a significant risk to the Health and Safety Executive (under the Reporting of Injuries, Disease and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations), any enforcement action taken against the University, and any response taken in relation to these 

• ensure health, safety and wellbeing is considered when undertaking any major strategic decisions for the University which may impact on others. 

   

To discharge these responsibilities, the Council is advised in particular by the Vice-Chancellor and President, and the Director of Wellbeing, Safety and Health.