How they are chosen
The representative is elected from among the workers, not appointed by the employer. Where an election cannot be held, a designation route is used, but election is the rule.
What they do
They pass workers' views, suggestions and complaints on health and safety to the employer; give views on matters such as the risk assessment, the training plan and emergency arrangements; and represent workers on the committee.
Protection
A representative may not be placed at a disadvantage because of the role. A representative under pressure silences the voice of those they represent — and at that point the system loses its function.
They must be visible
If workers do not know who the representative is, the role does not exist in practice. The name and how to reach them stay visible on the notice board and in shared areas.
In Optifora
The board module keeps the representative on record; reports coming from them open as a separate channel and are carried to the agenda.