IOSH looks to Lord Young to safeguard industry workers

The institution says that in manufacturing last year, 24 people were killed, making it one of the most dangerous industries for work-related deaths with the third worst fatal injury rate after construction and agriculture. In 2008-2009, the sector saw around 2.5 million days lost due to workplace injury or ill-health, and there were 4,479 reported major injuries. IOSH said it had welcomed this national debate that had been provoked by the review which the Prime Minister had asked former government minister Lord Young of Graffham (pictured) to lead and would continue to be actively involved following the issue of the report. Policy and technical director Richard Jones went on: "As the body representing health and safety professionals, we think it's high-time the root causes of today's risk aversion and public confusion are tackled, because we're concerned serious health and safety issues in manufacture, construction and other more hazardous working environments could be undermined. But we strongly disagree with labelling health and safety and its laws as 'nannying' and would like recognition of its positive role in helping employers to manage risks sensibly." During the course of this review, IOSH highlighted to Lord Young why any 'easing of burdens' in small organisations mustn't lower essential standards. "As we all know, small doesn't necessarily mean safe; and in the manufacturing sector, small firms can have around twice the rate of amputations and deaths as larger ones. In the UK, an estimated 13.7 million people work in SMEs and their health and safety really matters. It's all about practical action and good management – not pointless paperwork, as is sometimes portrayed," Jones added. IOSH believes Lord Young is likely to recommend voluntary accreditation of health and safety consultants, which the institution has been calling for, and would welcome. At the moment, anyone can set themselves up as a consultant but, in future, because minimum levels of qualification and experience will be required, those using accredited consultants will be able to have more confidence in getting the competent advice they need. Jones concluded: "It's important people don't confuse urban myths with workplace reality – or fear of being sued with essential employee protection. We'd like to see improved education, so that everyone recognises risk is part of life, knows how to manage it sensibly, and also understands about personal responsibility. A more risk intelligent workforce will be better for employees, better for business and better for society."