Employee representation on health and safety in small enterprises: A trade union initiative in agriculture

Abstract

Presents an evaluation of a trade union project to appoint regional health and safety representatives in farm‐working. Outlines the background and development of the scheme and assesses its outcomes. Reviews the problem of health and safety in agriculture and discusses the scheme as a means of improving the health and safety performance of the small enterprises typical of the industry. Identifies factors that have supported or constrained the activities of the regional safety representatives and evaluates their importance. Compares the scheme with analysis of more developed provisions for regional health and safety representatives found in Sweden and identifies and discusses a number of supporting and limiting factors common to both schemes. Concludes the project has achieved very limited success in improving joint consultation on health and safety in agricultural employment. Suggests its limited progress is a result of constraints specific to the industry rather than those of employment in small enterprises in general. Proposes further strategies that the trade union might adopt to increase the chances of success within the industry.

Citation

Walters, D. (1998), "Employee representation on health and safety in small enterprises: A trade union initiative in agriculture", Employee Relations, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 164-179. https://doi.org/10.1108/01425459810211322