Workgroups

A workgroup is defined as a group of staff working in common under the direction of a manager or supervisor. In the University context, a workgroup may equate with a project work team, smaller Department etc.

A workgroup needs not be of any particular size, however the size of the workgroup must be such that regular and meaningful consultation can be undertaken. In determining the composition of workgroups, consideration should be given to the type of work performed and geographical location of individuals.

It is the responsibility of each supervisor or manager to consult with his or her workgroup members in order to identify hazards# in the work environment or hazardous aspects of work activities and effectively manage the associated OHS risks.

Consultation on OHS issues within each workgroup is intrinsic to OHS risk management.

All members of a workgroup should therefore have the opportunity to participate in identifying hazards in their own workplace, assessing the risks associated with these and contributing to the process of deciding which risk control measures should be adopted and when.

Each member of staff must be recognised as belonging to a workgroup. All workgroup members will be routinely consulted on OHS issues relevant to the workgroup by the workgroup supervisor or manager.