Main Aim(s) of the Unit:

This unit aims to introduce the student to the key principles and widely accepted code of practice of fundamental health and safety management

Main Topics of Study:

1. Meanings and Distinctions -  Definition and universally accepted meanings of the terms: Hazard & Risk, Health, Safety, Welfare, Environmental Protection, Accidents, Dangerous Occurrences, Near Misses, Work Related Ill Health
2. Health & Safety Policy - Purpose of A Health and Safety Policy / Statement / Organisation / Arrangements / Implementation
3. Risk Assessment - Principles of risk assessment / The 5 steps approach
4. Audit and Inspection – Audit Procedures / Requirements for inspection and Examples / Reporting Back / Interpreting findings
5. Health & Safety Induction Training – Reasons for Induction training / Training Content / Methods of Induction
6. Consultation -  Definition of Consultation / Health and Safety Committee / Obtaining Workforce feedback / Employers duty to provide training and time off
   

Learning Outcomes for the Unit

At the end of this Unit, students will be able to:

1. Explain the moral and economic bases for maintaining good standards of health and safety.
2. Outline the Key Elements of a Health and Safety Management System.
3. Produce a Simple Health and Safety Policy for a small uncomplicated organisation.
4. Provide examples of workplaces and items which should be inspected including intervals and schedules of inspection

Learning and teaching methods/strategies used to enable the achievement of learning outcomes:

Learning takes place on a number of levels through lectures, class discussion including problem review and analysis. Formal lectures provide a foundation of information on which the student builds through directed learning and self managed learning outside of the class. The students are actively encouraged to form study groups to discuss course material which fosters a greater depth learning experience.

Assessment methods which enable student to demonstrate the learning outcomes for the Unit:

Examination : 3 Hours duration : 100%

Indicative Reading for this Unit:

Main Text:

Introduction to Health & Safety at Work : Hughes & Ferrett, Taylor & Francis

Alternative texts

http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg259.pdf
http://www.hse.gov.uk/risk/theory/r2p2.pdf
http://www.rospa.com/

Guideline for Teaching and Learning Time (10 hrs per credit)

50 hours: Lectures / Seminars / Tutorials / Workshops
Tutorial support includes feedback on assignments and may vary by college according to local needs and wishes.

50 hours: Directed learning
Advance reading and preparation / Class preparation / Background reading / Group study / Portfolio / Diary etc