CONFERENCE CONSIDERS THE DEVELOPING ROLE OF HEALTH AND SAFETY

HSE press release E195:03 - 30 September 2003

The North West Regional Association of Occupational Health and Safety Group's two-day conference and exhibition will start today, at Barton Grange Hotel & Conference Centre in Preston, Lancashire.

Industry and local government will be aiming to spread health and safety information to local small businesses. It is also a useful opportunity to understand new trends that are becoming increasingly important. Keen to support the two-day conference Marcia Davies, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) North West Regional Director said, "As well as exploring important new legislation and a range of key topics, the agenda illustrates well the increased recognition of the wider influence of health and safety - it is a cornerstone of a civilised society.

"It should be a matter of concern to all who care to think about the implications that accidents resulting in serious injuries are not declining. In the North West in 2001/2 an estimated 4.2 million days were lost through work related illness. This represents a toll of suffering which should be regarded as unacceptable in this day and age. It also represents a huge waste to our local economy to the tune of billions of pounds."

In addition to speakers from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and Blackpool Fylde and Wyre Hospitals NHS Trust, several HSE speakers will also address this year's event including:

Elizabeth Gyngell - Putting the 'Health in Health and Safety;
Joy Jones - Working Well Together;
David Legg - The Business Case for Good Health and Safety;
Iqbal Essa - Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres;
Dr Dil Sen - Occupational Asthma;
Mike Gray - Health, Safety and Ergonomics.

David Eves who retired as HSE Deputy Director General and Chief Inspector of Factories will also address delegates at the conference.

Notes to editors

1 OHSA is a voluntary organisation which includes 11 Safety Groups in the North West region. The event is sponsored by SETA Training and Advisory Services Ltd.

Press enquiries

All enquiries from journalists should be directed to the HSE Press Office