If you’re growing a business, you likely have a long “to-do” list. Let’s look at why having a full Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) policy should be right at the top. Why do you need an HSE policy in place as your business grows, and how can it impact your employees’ performance? Here’s what you need to know.
What is an HSE policy?
An HSE policy is a company’s statement outlining how it will provide and manage a safe and healthy working environment. It sets out individual responsibilities for tasks related to health, safety and the working environment and when they should be achieved.
Why is it important?
One of the main reasons you need an HSE policy is the fact that it is required by law in the UK. Every business must show its commitment to health and safety matters in this manner. It’s also important because it helps to avoid injuries and unsafe practices at work and sets out the steps needed to achieve this.
Having a clear and accessible HSE policy makes you attractive as an employer because it shows that you care about your employees and their rights. It will also demonstrate to your clients that you conduct business ethically and that you are organised and in control.
How does it impact employee performance?
Employees who are treated well at work are more motivated to perform and achieve the goals set by their employer. Having an HSE policy in place and communicating it to staff is an obvious example of this.
Enforcing an HSE policy also means that employees will be clear about their own roles in maintaining a safe workplace, which helps to keep standards high. Moreover, because it demonstrates your commitment to staff health and safety, you are more likely to retain valuable employees.
How can I write an HSE policy?
A typical HSE policy contains the following elements:
- A statement of intent
- The names and roles of people in your company who are responsible for health and safety
- How you will achieve your health and safety goals
You can find examples and templates to help you on the Health and Safety Executive website.
How can I achieve the goals set out in my HSE policy?
Once you’ve set your goals, you will need to consider how to achieve them.
For example, if you have a strict drugs and alcohol policy in place, you will need to ensure that employees are complying with this element of your HSE policy. Therefore, you may wish to use a company such as Matrix Diagnostics that offers drug testing lab services that can provide accurate test results with fast turnaround times.
In short, it’s about finding practical ways to demonstrate that you are honouring every part of your HSE policy.
The difference the right policy makes
An HSE policy is an essential part of business practice, laying the foundation for a safe and productive workplace.
If you do not have a policy in place already, it is time to develop one that includes the practical steps you need to fulfil its goals, such as employee drug testing. The right policy could make a difference between a healthy workplace and a breach in safety that you’ll regret.
