What is one of the key roles of an industry safety and health representative (ISHR)?

The key role of an industry safety and health representative (ISHR) is to make inquiries relevant to the safety of coal mine workers. This duty is crucial as it allows the ISHR to advocate for the health and safety of workers by identifying potential hazards, gathering information about workplace safety conditions, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The representative acts as a liaison between workers and management, ensuring that safety concerns are voiced and addressed appropriately. This role is integral in fostering a safe working environment and promoting the overall well-being of the workforce.

Recruiting miners or directing operations falls outside the scope of the ISHR’s responsibilities, as these tasks do not directly relate to safety inquiries or the representative’s role in ensuring workplace safety standards. Establishing new mining regulations also exceeds the ISHR’s role, as this function generally involves legislative or regulatory bodies rather than safety representatives at the operational level.