4
There was submitted a report by the Director of Finance & Resources relative to activity undertaken in relation to health, safety and wellbeing issues since the previous meeting.
The report indicated that several workstreams had been paused due to the pandemic and that the report focussed on actions and activities undertaken to support the Council’s response and recovery plans. Furthermore, it was highlighted that the Health & Safety team had been an integral part of the Council’s emergency management team providing guidance as documents had been released by the UK and Scottish Governments, the NHS and Health Protection Scotland. It was noted that consultation and collaboration had been undertaken with the trade unions to ensure the health and wellbeing of those involved in activities.
The report also detailed guidance and policies that had been reviewed and issued, outlined the support provided to front line services in the delivery of emergency and prioritised work, and to employees with underlying health conditions to ensure a safe return to work, advised that a covid-19 web link had been established for the dissemination of guidance and communications to employees. Updates were also provided in respect of activity undertaken relative to the evaluation of contractor’s health and safety documentation, submitted as part of the procurement process, Freedom of Information enquiries and the review of arrangements for Renfrewshire House. It was highlighted that a large element of the workload had been undertaking site visits and inspection of all high schools, primary schools, early learning centres and nurseries. Although scheduled meetings of the Corporate Health and Safety Committee had been suspended due to the pandemic weekly meetings with the trade unions continued to take place.
The support and collaboration of the trade unions in tackling the challenging situation was praised by all in attendance.
DECIDED:
That the report be noted.