HSC calls for health and safety standards to be raised

HSE press release C009:06 28 April 2006

Today, Workers' Memorial Day, the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) is supporting calls from the labour movement to ask everyone to spare a moment and remember those who have been killed at work in Great Britain.

Last year more than 200 people died at work and 150,000 were seriously injured. Bill Callaghan, Chair of the HSC said, "There has been progress in reducing this figure but the progress has been slow. Workers have the right to be protected at work. Everyone has a duty to see this happens; employers, regulators, trades union representatives and the employees themselves."

"We must all remember that every injury and death at work seriously affects not only the victim but those around them, their families and work colleagues. The Health and Safety Commission, along with colleagues in the Health and Safety Executive and Local Authorities, are working harder than ever with unions, employers and employees to raise standards. We fully support the efforts of trade unions and the wider labour movement in remembering those affected by workplace accidents on this day."

Geoffrey Podger, Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Executive echoed, the Chair's comments adding, "Everyone has a legal and moral duty to ensure that workers are given the protection they deserve at work. Many accidents at work are completely avoidable and often very simple, inexpensive solutions could have prevented the accident from happening . By working together, employers and workers can sensibly manage workplace risks and improve conditions for all."

Notes to editors

1. The Health and Safety Commission (HSC) is responsible for health and safety regulation in Great Britain. The Health and Safety Executive and local government are the enforcing authorities who work in support of the Commission.
2. The Health and Safety Executive's (HSE) job is to help the Health and Safety Commission ensure that risks to people's health and safety from work activities are properly controlled.

Press enquiries

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