What does the threefold duty of care encompass?

The threefold duty of care encompasses the obligation of an employer to ensure three fundamental aspects of safety and well-being within the workplace: a safe workplace, safe equipment, and safe systems of work. This comprehensive approach ensures that all potential risks are mitigated across different areas of operation.

A safe workplace refers to maintaining an environment that is free from hazards that could potentially cause injury or illness to employees. This includes factors such as appropriate workplace layout, proper lighting, and adequate ventilation.

Safe equipment means that all machinery and tools must be well-maintained, suitably designed for their intended use, and regularly inspected to prevent failures or malfunctions that could pose dangers to employees.

Safe systems of work involve the procedures and practices established to conduct tasks in a manner that minimizes risk. This includes training employees on safe practices, enforcing safety protocols, and being proactive in identifying and remedying potential hazards.

While the other options touch on important aspects of health and safety, they do not capture the entirety of the duty of care as effectively as the correct choice. For example, while training and safety audits are significant, they are part of broader systems of work rather than the foundational pillars of duty of care themselves. Similarly, employee performance reviews, health benefits, and insurance do not directly