Press Release: Create a safer workplace this new year
4th January 2012
The new year is upon us and many of you may be considering losing weight or quitting smoking, but as a small business, what will your new year’s resolution be?
National Accident Helpline is urging businesses to make health and safety in the workplace their top priority for 2012 after a rise in the number of workplace deaths nationwide.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, a total of 171 people were killed as a result of accidents at work last year, compared with 147 during 2009/10. More than 24,700 workers suffered a major injury in 2010/11.
The highest number of accidents were in construction, agriculture and waste and recycling with a total of 93 fatal injuries.
Beth Powell, National Accident Helpline consumer director, said: “In recent years health and safety in the workplace has improved significantly however, these statistics are still dreadful, they highlight the importance of complying with health and safety and are proof that failure to do so can lead to fatalities and serious injury.
"As a business owner, it is your duty to provide a safe working environment to all of your employees. The consequences of failing in terms of human suffering and financial loss from possible compensation claims, can be significant, so don’t let paperwork or short term cost put you off, take action now!”
Further guidance and advice on health and safety in the workplace can be found on the Health and Safety Executive website by visiting www.hse.gov.uk
