EEF urges employers to improve H&S performance

EEF director general Martin Temple says: “The number of deaths at work remains unacceptable and, whilst there were fewer deaths in manufacturing, the fact the overall number has increased shows that employers need to redouble their efforts. Companies cannot afford to rest on their laurels and ignore the wealth of evidence which shows that investment in good health & safety practice is good business sense.” As a strategic partner with the HSE, EEF is committed to promoting world class health, safety and environmental standards in the workplace. However, it believes too many organisations fail to realise that they need a systematic approach to risk assessment and remain unaware of the costs in terms of lost days and effect on morale. In contrast, EEF believes that best practice health and safety management procedures are essential for companies of all sizes and sectors. HSE data shows that companies that implement such procedures have a greater chance of avoiding many health and safety incidents. The data shows the main overarching failures leading to incidents are: - No systematic approach to risk assessment - Not applying good management to health, safety and environment, including managing contractors - Lack of senior management support / example - Lack of effective communication - No learning from accidents, incidents, near misses As well as extensive consultancy and training in implementing best practice health and safety management, EEF provides guidance applicable for companies of all sizes and all sectors. It’s Health, Safety and Environment Guide brings together, for the first time all of EEF’s expertise in delivering practical advice to thousands of companies across the UK. The guide is a comprehensive source of practical information for employers of all sizes and is designed to help deliver best practice management processes in the workplace.