Volunteer Responsibilities in Health and Safety

1. Responsibilities of Volunteers Under HSWA

Under HSWA, volunteers are responsible for:

• Following Safety Instructions: Adhering to organisational health and safety policies and procedures.
• Using Equipment Correctly: Operating tools or machinery safely and only if authorised.
• Reporting Hazards: Notifying supervisors of any risks or incidents observed during activities.
• Participating in Training: Attending relevant safety training to understand their duties and responsibilities.

2. Casual Volunteers vs. Volunteer Workers

Volunteer responsibilities may vary depending on their classification:

• Casual Volunteers: Expected to follow basic safety guidelines but are not involved in high-risk tasks.
• Volunteer Workers: Treated similarly to employees and held to higher standards of compliance, especially for hazardous activities.

3. How Organisations Can Support Volunteers

To ensure volunteers can fulfil their responsibilities effectively, organisations should:

• Provide clear instructions and safety guidelines tailored to their roles.
• Offer accessible and relevant training for high-risk tasks.
• Encourage open communication to address concerns or questions.
• Monitor and supervise volunteers to ensure adherence to safety standards.

4. Benefits of Defining Volunteer Responsibilities

Clearly defined responsibilities create a safer, more efficient environment. Key benefits include:

• Reduced Risks: Fewer incidents due to consistent adherence to safety protocols.
• Enhanced Compliance: Aligning with HSWA regulations protects organisations from penalties.
• Volunteer Confidence: Volunteers feel valued and prepared to contribute safely.

5. Conclusion

Volunteers contribute significantly to workplace safety, but they must understand and fulfil their responsibilities under HSWA. By providing training, clear instructions, and ongoing support, organisations can empower volunteers to perform their roles safely and effectively.