demonstrate that they have done what could reasonably be expected in establishing the suitability of whoever is nominated as the competent person.
Conclusion
Occupational health and safety are everyone’s responsibility and are inextricably linked. Clearly, the requirements and opportunities for the occupational health nurse to work in health and safety vary greatly de- pending on the setting. Whatever the situation, however, occupational health nurses need an understanding of the health and safety legislation relating to the workplace they are advising. It is up to all professionals, including occupational health nurses, to be clear and assured about their competencies, to keep up to date and to be aware of the limitations of their knowledge. As well as knowing where to obtain information, it is also crucial that they know to whom they can refer when they do not have the relevant competency.
This chapter has provided an historical overview of health and safety in the UK, with particular reference to the links between occupational health and health and safety. Two key themes that run through health and safety legislation and guidance, namely risk assessment and the competent person, were outlined. The aim was to illustrate some of the ways in which the occupational health nurse can make a difference to workplace health by keeping abreast of health and safety issues and getting actively involved in collaborative working with employers, em- ployees and health and safety colleagues.
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