ABSTRACT
Given this close working relationship between the human resource and safety and health functions, it is essential for the safety and health professional to also possess a working knowledge of the internal human resource policies as well as the areas within the laws and regulations managed by the human resource function which intersect and directly impact the safety and health function. Below please nd several of the general human resource policies common in many companies or organizations as well as federal laws with which the human resource function ensures compliance and that often impact the safety and health function. Safety and health professionals should also be aware that there are federal laws and regulations as well as state laws and regulations (which are dependent upon the location of your operation) as well as local laws and regulations that can impact your safety and health efforts. Safety and health professionals usually do not need to become expert in these laws and regulations but must simply be able to recognize if and when a law or regulation may be applicable to the situation. When the safety and health professional recognizes the potential application of the law to the circumstances, the general rule of thumb is to contact the human resource department or legal counsel before taking action or providing a decision in the matter.
