Who has the obligation to inform others about information necessary for their protection from injury or illness?

The obligation to inform others about information necessary for their protection from injury or illness generally falls upon those who have the responsibility for the health and safety of individuals in hazardous environments. In the context of the options provided, coal mine workers often need to communicate potential hazards to their colleagues, ensuring that everyone is aware of risks associated with their work. This proactive approach helps create a safer working environment, as workers on the ground are the first to encounter hazards and can provide critical, on-the-spot information regarding safety practices and immediate dangers.

While hospital staff play a crucial role in patient care and have responsibilities related to patient safety, their obligations are more focused on direct patient interactions rather than communicating workplace hazards to fellow employees. Mining safety inspectors are responsible for enforcing safety regulations and inspecting mining operations, while coal mine operators hold overall responsibility for ensuring a safe work environment. However, they may not always be in direct contact with every worker or may not be privy to the immediate conditions faced daily in the mines.

In contrast, coal mine workers, given their firsthand experience and observations, are positioned to identify hazards and relay this information effectively to their peers, fulfilling a more immediate and crucial role in workplace safety.