Project – This work is the culmination of the three-year project initiated in 2007/08 which saw the development of Local Action Plans across Royal Mail. The 2009 Project will see those last remaining areas that have not previously participated joining the scheme. Project work involving Royal Mail Group contributes to the Large Organisations Partnership scheme (LOP)
To achieve jointly established health and safety targets within an agreed timescale via Local Action Plans. Emphasis should be placed on continuing local collaborations between HSE and LAs to promote sustainable improvements, and involving Royal Mail’s Area Management Teams and Trade Unions more directly in the management of health and safety.
In 2007/8, there were 4,887 reportable accidents involving Royal Mail staff. The organisation’s injury rate per 1,000 staff was nearly three times greater than the all industry average. This resulted in thousands of working days being lost to the business, as well as untold personal suffering for those directly involved.
Enforcement responsibility for Royal Mail is divided between HSE and the LAs. Broadly speaking, premises including Sorting and Delivery Offices fall to the LAs, with HSE responsible for delivery operations. Partnership working between HSE and LAs is therefore important for this industry to achieve sustained reductions in accident figures.
A more proactive approach to the management of health and safety within Royal Mail is required to ensure sustainable improvement. Royal Mail’s Area Management Teams need to take responsibility for delivering the targets agreed in the Local Action Plan.
HSE and LA inspectors will meet with Royal Mail and TUs to develop and agree the Local Action Plans. The Plans should address specific matters of local concern and include a target on the Walk Risk Assessment process. These matters may be identified from previous inspections or through discussion with Royal Mail and the Trade Unions. The broader, corporate strategic goals will be addressed through the national LOPP Improvement Plan.
By way of example, a suggested methodology has been developed: Local Action Plan - methodology [201KB]
In areas where new Local Action Plans are to be developed:
During April 2009, HSE and LA inspectors will meet with Royal Mail and TUs to develop and agree the Local Action Plans; following their launch HSE and LAs will monitor progress against timetable. Inspections to assess compliance will take place in Spring 2010. Preventive inspections unrelated to the project should not be undertaken in the areas subject to Local Action Plans during 2009/10.
In areas not already subject to a Local Action Plan, or those where Local Action plans have been completed, normal inspection and enforcement activity should continue.
Inspectors should be aware of who (in terms of diversity e.g. men, women, disabled etc) is the target group in the sector they are dealing with. Give consideration to, and factor into the approach, any issues that may surround this audience such as literacy issues, English as a second language and disability (access needs).
The Diversity pages give more information on these areas.