Workplace Safety Dispute Guidance

Summary

You are dealing with a workplace dispute involving safety concerns and suspension. Document all interactions and review company policies on safety and disciplinary actions. Employers must provide a safe environment under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Consider seeking advice from a union representative or ACAS. Your statement for court is clear, but ensure it highlights specific safety concerns, your repeated expressions of concern, and any steps taken to resolve the issue.

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On 1st February *, at approximately * a.m., my team leader instructed me to shut down for * hours and clean the ballistic separator. The separator is an open vessel with only one door for entry and exit, which classifies it as a confined space. I asked my team leader about the emergency plan, specifically whether it involved calling *. He left to confirm the plan and later returned, confirming that calling * was the designated emergency response. I expressed my concerns to my team leader, stating that I felt the emergency plan was inadequate and insufficient for the situation. He then asked if I was refusing to clean the ballistic separator, to which I responded, "No, I am refusing because I feel the emergency plan is inadequate and insufficient." He replied, "If you refuse to do it, I will have to send you home." I responded, "If that's what you need to do."
It sounds like you have concerns about health and safety at your workplace, particularly regarding the emergency plan for working in a confined space.
- Health and Safety at Work Act *: Employers have a duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees.
- Confined Spaces Regulations *: Specific requirements for working safely in confined spaces, including emergency procedures.
Would you like more information on how to address this issue with your employer?
is the above statement ok for court
It looks like your statement is clear and detailed, which is good for presenting your case. However, to strengthen it further, you might consider:
- Clearly highlighting the specific health and safety concerns.
- Emphasizing that you repeatedly expressed your concerns about the emergency plan.
- Mentioning any steps you took to resolve the issue before refusing the task.
- Including exact quotes and names, as you have done, to provide a strong narrative.
Would you like more specific advice or assistance on any particular part of your statement?