How to apply
Bronze
Orchestras wishing to apply for a Healthy Orchestra Bronze Charter Mark should
download an application form. Please note that all Bronze applications must be signed by both the CEO and Musicians Union or employee representative in order to be eligible.
Orchestras applying for a Bronze Charter Mark will need to demonstrate as a minimum that:
- essential occupational health and safety management systems are already in place
- implementation of control measures for any significant risks to their employees’ health and safety is currently underway
- they can provide evidence of learning from any enforcement experience as the result of an HSE inspection
Over and above these basic requirements, the Bronze Charter Mark will be awarded to applicants who demonstrate an understanding of the health needs of their employees and show a commitment to good practice by meeting a set of
fundamental standards. Most of the areas suggested do not involve significant cost to the employer – only time and consideration – and therefore should be accessible to all ABO Members.
Silver
In order to be considered for Silver Charter Marks, Bronze Award holders need to write a short letter (no longer than one page of A4) to the ABO requesting a visit by one of the assessors, whilst also very briefly outlining why they feel that they are eligible for a Silver Award.
Orchestras requesting a visit by an assessor in order to be considered for a Silver Charter Mark need to:
- be certain that the understanding of the duty of care has been absorbed into their organisational culture at all levels
- be able to demonstrate considerable achievement in the Silver Themes listed below.
Active Health Promotion
What does the orchestra management do to actively encourage its employees to take matters of occupational health and health & safety seriously? Are there any information distribution schemes? Visits by specialist lecturers? Occupational Health Awareness events? In-house info material tailored to the needs of local musicians?
Planning Procedures
Regarding venue facilities, performance matters and travelling arrangements, how much demonstrable
awareness of occupational health and H&S issues exists at the early stages of planning cycles? How is this then followed through implementing adequate planning procedures? Is there an integrated approach across the organisation?
Provision of Services
Which essential services are provided in-house (physiotherapy, hearing tests, health surveillance etc)? Are there additional services / discounts for employees with external providers?
Creative Thinking
Which examples can the organisation give to demonstrate that they think creatively about overcoming
obstacles posed by occupational health or H&S related issues?
Gold
When visiting a Silver applicant, assessors may identify projects suitable for a Gold Award. Alternatively, member orchestras are asked to bring potential Gold projects to the ABO’s attention as early on as possible in the planning process.