Supervisor responsibilities

The term ‘supervisor’ is commonly used in the University to refer primarily to those individuals who deal with students or who engage in research. For the purposes of health and safety law many other members of staff may also have a supervisory function.

An employee of the University may be considered to be a supervisor if he/she has the power and authority to give instructions and/or orders to subordinates. Also, to be held responsible for the work and actions of other employees, or those under their day-to-day control.

Individuals holding such titles as team leader, overseer, coordinator, facilitator, principal researcher, or manager may be considered ‘supervisors’ if these criteria apply.

The policy details the roles and responsibilities of supervisors, including information on:

  • general responsibilities
  • safety responsibilities
  • risk assessment
  • competence
  • information, instruction and training
  • ongoing supervision
  • absences from the department
  • health surveillance
  • enforcement
  • maintenance of equipment
  • departure and exit procedures