Contractors have been called upon to comply with health and safety regulations as well as organization’s policies while carrying out their duties.
This statement was made by Jude Ugochukwu Amaechi, head of HSE, NASCON Allied industries plc subsidiary of Dangote group during his presentation at the October LPC, HSE Committee meeting at Dangote Sugar refinery, GDNL, Wharf, Apapa.
Jude said that it is the responsibility of contractors to provide and maintain proper tools and safety equipments; inform the company of any hazards introduced into the company’s property; and provide job safety plans and MSDS.
He also highlighted providing emergency plans; competent workforce / certificates and making sure that employees can communicate with company personnel and read safety signs, as other responsibilities of the contractors.
“Contractors also have responsibility to carry out a risk assessment and should do so before work commences at the tender stage. In order to be satisfied as to the competency of the contractor in the management of health and safety, it is common for companies to send out or use a pre- qualification check list at the tendering stage,” he added.
While noting that contractor accidents are preventable, he said that contractor’s role was a critical responsibility for everyone.
He further decried the insufficient training of contractors in their jobs.
He said that companies have the onus to comply with legal laws pertaining to health and safety including ensuring the safety, health and welfare of his employees and others.
“Providing a safe place of work and a safe system of work on client’s, premises just as they are obliged to on their own premises; under the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations, 1999, all employers are required to undertake an assessment of the risks which effect employees and anyone else who may be effected by the work, including contractors,” he said.
He also stated that contractors need to engage very strong awareness when working on site including putting safety rules in consideration, in order to avert hazards that may come up.
Stating some, he said, “Control the coming and going of contractors in and out of the premises; provide induction on the site conditions, facilities, safety rules and practices required; name a site contact (someone to get in touch with on a routine basis or if the jobs changes and there is uncertainty about what to do).”
He further stated, “Establish a timetable for formal and regular review of the contractor’s safety management system through inspections, audits and safety meetings.”
