Half-day conference on employers' liability

The Foundation for Human Resources Development (FHRD), in partnership with the Institute of Health and Safety (IHS), is organising a half-day conference on Tuesday, October 9 at the Radisson SAS Bay Point Resort, St Julian's entitled "Employer's liability: doing what is reasonable".

The extent of employers' accident liability at the workplace has been increasing steadily. Although penalties under criminal law in Malta are still quite low, the level of awards under civil law may sometimes impose heavy financial burdens on a company.

The law requires employers to take 'reasonable' measures and precautions to ensure that the health and safety of their employees is not compromised. However, people might often interpret 'reasonability' differently.

This seminar will examine real-life cases of what has been deemed reasonable or otherwise in the Maltese courts. It will also outline how employers can demonstrate reasonability and compliance with legal and operational standards.

A welcome will be given by Chris Hudson, (Hons)MA, BA , CFIOSH, AIEMA, director of training and consultancy at HIS, and an address by FHRD's president, will open the conference.

Dr Joseph Zammit McKeon will talk about "Civil claims in health and safety - what has to be proved and how employers can become liable". Dr Shaheryar Ghaznavi will focus on "What is reasonable? - an examination of real-life case studies from the courts".

Joseph Farrugia from the Malta Employers Association (MEA) will talk about "The employer's view of civil claiming" and Mr Hudson about "Management systems and demonstrating reasonability and legal compliance".

For more information and registration visit www.fhrd.org/RegistrationForm.pdf

Cheques are to be made payable to the Foundation for Human Resources Development and mailed to 1, Triq Il-Kampanella, San Gwann.