smallbusiness.co.uk: Helping your business think big

Research by the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has shown that, on average, activities at work have caused 400 deaths per year, with more than a million people injured. The total cost to the UK's economy runs to around Ł18 billion per year.

As such, its not too surprising to learn that warnings, unlimited fines, and even imprisonment are the kind of sanctions awaiting businesses which are lax on their health and safety policies.

Moreover, businesses which ignore health and safety regulations might also be hampering their ability to progress. Poor health and safety management can lead to low productivity and increased sick leave for important employees. These problems can force many small ventures into considerable difficulties.

Considering all of this, it's not too surprising that this year's European Week for Safety and Health, held every October, is focusing on "workplace accidents".

Bill Callaghan, Chair of the Health and Safety Commission, wants the Week - which starts on 15 October in the UK - to be used to "drive home some simple messages to those who still believe that accidents are bad luck. The message is that accidents happen, that they need not happen, and there are controls and solutions - often simple - which save lives and livelihoods."

All businesses and organisations are being encouraged to take part in the Week and "to focus on ways of improving health and safety in the workplace." All that firms need to do is think of a campaign to do during the Week and tell the HSE about it. All those who provide feedback to the HSE will receive a personalised certificate. Some will be picked to receive a regional award and a chosen few will be invited to Edinburgh to receive a national award at a special awards ceremony.

Apart from improving the health and safety of a firm's workplace it also provides an excellent PR opportunity for participants in the Week.

To keep up-to-date on current health and safety legislation, visit the Health and Safety Executive's website at www.hse.gov.uk .

To receive an Action Pack to take part in the Week, call the Action pack helpline on 0845-718 1819.

With thanks to Lloyds TSB Success4Business. For more news and information visit www.success4business.com .

(28/8/01)

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