What are the primary responsibilities of employers under the Health and Safety at Work Act?

The primary responsibilities of employers under the Health and Safety at Work Act focus on ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of their employees while also providing safe working conditions and equipment. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing safety measures, and maintaining a safe workplace environment.

Employers are required to assess hazards in the workplace and take appropriate steps to mitigate risks, which includes the provision of necessary personal protective equipment, maintaining equipment in safe working order, and ensuring that the work environment complies with safety regulations. Furthermore, employers are obligated to promote and ensure the welfare of their employees, addressing not just physical safety but also mental health aspects related to the work environment.

While minimizing costs or maximizing productivity are important aspects for any business, they should not compromise health and safety obligations. Offering training only upon request undermines the proactive approach that the Act encourages; instead, training should be considered a responsibility to help ensure that all employees are well-informed on safety practices and procedures. Therefore, the emphasis on health, safety, and welfare makes the second option the most accurate reflection of employers' responsibilities under the Act.