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Indicator 3.5.3
by Contact on 8 October 2026
Requirement
The UoC shall allow any person the freedom to remove themselves from an unsafe situation without seeking permission and without fear of retribution. **
How Do I Interpret This Requirement?
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This requirement is applicable to both the workplace and any accommodation facilities provided by the UoC.
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An employee could decide that a workplace is unsafe if there are significant risks to health or safety due to, for example:
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inadequate safety measures
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faulty equipment
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lack of training
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hazardous substances
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non-compliance with safety laws
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anything that makes the employee feel unsafe.
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If an employee feels unsafe, they do not need to ask prior permission to remove themselves from the situation.
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Retribution can take many forms and can be:
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obvious punishment, for example:
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physical threats
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verbal threats or warnings
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hidden punishment, for example:
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being ignored for a promotion
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being refused requests that are unrelated to the unsafe situation
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hostile treatment.
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Management can communicate to employees that they are able to remove themselves from any unsafe situations, for example through:
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training
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information in their contracts
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verbal explanations.
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Evidence of Implementation
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employee contracts
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health and safety training records
Auditors Should Confirm
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employees understand that they are able to remove themselves from unsafe situations without fear of retribution;
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employees understand what unsafe situations may occur and are aware of escape routes and emergency procedures;
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management understand that employees have the right to remove themselves from unsafe situations without fear of retribution.
