Duties of Supervisors

Supervisors are important to safe workplaces because they are closest to the actual work being done and can address and resolve workers' health and safety concerns.

A supervisor is an individual who is authorized by an employer to oversee or direct the work of the employer's workers.

Under The Saskatchewan Employment Act, supervisors must:

• understand and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety requirements;
• co-operate with the occupational health committee, ensure that it functions properly, and ensure all workers support committee members in their health and safety activities;
• make sure hazards are identified and proper steps are taken to eliminate the hazards or control the risks;
• inspect work areas and correct unsafe acts and conditions;
• instruct and coach workers to follow safe work procedures;
• ensure only authorized, competent workers operate equipment;
• ensure equipment is properly maintained;
• ensure the necessary personal protective equipment is provided to workers and used properly;
• know how to safely handle, store, produce, and dispose of chemical and biological substances at the workplace;
• understand and implement emergency procedures;
• report and investigate incidents (meaning accidents and dangerous occurrences);
• promote health and safety awareness;
• co-operate with other parties in dealing with health and safety issues;
• ensure that workers under their direct supervision are sufficiently supervised; and
• ensure that workers under their direct supervision are not exposed to harassment or violence at their workplace.