What is the main purpose of a workplace safety committee?

The main purpose of a workplace safety committee is to proactively address safety concerns. This includes identifying potential hazards, suggesting improvements to work practices, and promoting a culture of safety within the organization. By focusing on prevention and continuous improvement, these committees aim to reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries in the workplace. Moreover, they often facilitate communication between employees and management regarding safety issues, ensuring that everyone is involved in the process of maintaining a safe working environment.

Other options, while they may be components of a workplace's overall functioning, do not align with the primary focus of a safety committee. Enforcing strict workplace rules does not capture the spirit of prevention and collaboration that defines a safety committee's role. Handling employee grievances is typically related to human resources functions rather than safety. Lastly, managing payroll and employee benefits falls outside the scope of safety and health, focusing more on administrative aspects of employment.