Health and safety legislation review
Former Trade and Industry Secretary, Lord
Young has been appointed by the government to lead a
review into health and safety legislation.
Misapplication of legislation
'The rise of the compensation culture over the
last ten years is a real concern, as is the way health and safety
rules are sometimes applied,' said Prime Minister David
Cameron.
He believes a sensible new approach is
needed that makes it obvious that the legislation is intended to
protect people, not overwhelm businesses with red
tape.
Good health and safety management is part of effective management. All workplaces need to put measures in place to protect their staff and customers, as we know that trained first aiders are the difference between a life lost and a life saved.
Sue Killen
CEO of St John Ambulance
Common sense needed
Lord Young said: 'Health and safety regulation is essential in
many industries but may well have been applied too
generally and have become an unnecessary
burden on firms, but also community organisations and
public services.'
He hoped that his review will reintroduce an element of
common sense and focus the regulation where it is
most needed: 'We need a system that is
proportionate and not bureaucratic,' he said.
St John Ambulance welcomes review
Sue Killen, CEO of St John Ambulance, the
nation’s leading first aid and health and safety provider, had this
to say on the matter:
‘The right approach to health and safety saves
lives – in 2008/9 we saw a 22% decrease in the number of
people who die at work compared to the previous five
years' average figures.'
She believes it is misinterpretation of health and
safety guidance that causes problems
and welcomes a review to ensure sensible and
proper execution.
'We’d be concerned if workplaces like offices had their guidance
reduced. Our research has shown that 45% of office incidents
requiring a first aider were serious enough to involve
resuscitation compared to 21% of incidents on a building site,
which is traditionally seen as more high risk.
'Good health and safety management is part of
effective management. All workplaces need to put measures in place
to protect their staff and customers, as we know that
trained first aiders are the difference between a life lost
and a life saved.'
If you’re confused about workplace health and
safety then speak to an adviser in your area on 08700 10 49
50. Our free Workplace training guide will also point
you in the right direction.