Organising occupational health and safety is crucial to ensuring a safe, compliant working environment. Three closely linked services support companies in this area: revision of the safety organisational chart, management of delegations and sub-delegations, and implementation of auditing and reporting systems. Together, these optimise the organisational structure, strengthen safety policies, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Revision of the occupational safety organisational chart
The first essential step in an effective occupational safety organisation is revising the organisational chart so that it is consistent with company functions and current legislation, as specified in Article 16 of Legislative Decree 81/2008.
This activity focuses in particular on identifying Managers with safety duties and Supervisors and on determining whether delegations of functions need to be assigned. Where necessary, the governing body (such as the Board of Directors) can be supported in adopting a "designation act" that formally identifies the Employer under Article 2 of Legislative Decree 81/2008, clarifying roles and responsibilities for safety.
Delegations / Sub-delegations / Organisational appointment letters for occupational safety
Once the safety organisational chart has been defined, delegations and sub-delegations can be prepared at the Employer's request, in accordance with safety regulations (Articles 16 and 17 of Legislative Decree 81/2008). This involves formalising the duties and responsibilities of Managers with
safety duties and Supervisors through "organisational letters" that clarify each individual's specific role within the safety organisation. These letters also set out operational objectives, the methods for implementing safety procedures, and the monitoring tools used to verify compliance with assigned duties. In this context, it is essential that the Manager with safety duties receives clear directives from the Employer or the delegate, so as to organise and oversee safety activities with the support of Supervisors, who in turn monitor the practical application of directives by workers.
Auditing and reporting system for occupational safety
To keep the occupational safety system working effectively, an auditing and reporting system is needed that continuously monitors the effectiveness of safety policies.
This system involves formal, periodic reports and checks by the operational line, using tools such as checklists. These reports give management a reliable flow of information for verifying the status of safety measures. Communication and training activities are also essential to raise employee awareness of their safety obligations and responsibilities and to explain in detail how delegations and company procedures work. This approach ensures the safety organisation is understood and properly applied at all levels.
In summary, occupational health and safety organisation encompasses revising the organisational chart, formalising delegations and operational appointments, and adopting a structured auditing and reporting system — ensuring that all levels of the organisation are efficiently and consciously involved in protecting worker health and safety.
FAQ
What are the benefits of periodically revising the safety organisational chart?
Regularly revising the safety organisational chart keeps roles and responsibilities up to date as organisational and regulatory changes occur. It helps avoid operational ambiguities and ensures that every key figure knows their safety duties. This improves compliance with Legislative Decree 81/2008 and reduces the risk of workplace accidents and injuries by making processes better coordinated. An updated chart also makes it easier to adopt effective delegations, strengthening operational control and supervision, and boosts workers’ confidence in the company’s safety management.
How can you ensure that a delegation is valid from a regulatory standpoint?
For a delegation to be valid, it must meet the requirements of Article 16 of Legislative Decree 81/2008. It must be conferred in writing with a certified date, and the delegate must have the technical skills and adequate resources to carry out the assigned duties. The delegation must be specific rather than generic, clearly indicating the delegated functions. The Employer must continue to verify the effectiveness of the delegation periodically through checks and reports. A well-structured auditing and reporting system can support this, ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance.
How does an auditing system help prevent incidents?
A well-structured auditing system enables the timely identification of non-conformities in safety procedures. Formal, periodic checks — such as checklists and reports — make it possible to monitor the status of preventive and corrective measures. This reduces risks by ensuring that all company directives are followed. Auditing also provides useful data for continuously improving the safety system, promoting a corporate culture of prevention and shared responsibility — key elements for minimising workplace injuries.
What is the role of training in the safety organisation?
Training is essential to ensure that every worker, Manager, and Supervisor fully understands their duties and responsibilities for safety. Targeted training not only strengthens technical skills but also raises awareness of the behaviours needed to prevent risks. To be effective, it must be continuous, updated in line with regulatory and organisational changes, and tailored to individual roles within the company. Through simulations, workshops, and specific instructional materials, training can encourage active participation, improving the practical application of safety procedures and compliance with company directives.
How should internal communication be managed to improve workplace safety?
Clear, two-way internal communication is crucial for the success of workplace safety policies. Tools such as periodic safety meetings, company newsletters, and notice boards should be used to share directives, regulatory updates, and best practices. Dedicated channels for reports and feedback — such as email addresses or company apps — can encourage workers to take an active part in safety management. Communication must also be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that messages reach everyone, improving collective awareness and reducing operational risks.
Need more information? Contact us!
We will reply to you as soon as possible