Health and safety measures have not been compromised during the recession-hit years even as all aspects of businesses have faced heavy cutbacks. This was the finding of a recent survey of employees by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
According to this report, a significant 85% of the higher-level employees in the construction industry accredit their companies from complying with safety and health norms even during the recessive economy. The survey, which took into consideration the views of 1,260 respondents, also showed that a third of them believe that company expenditure on safety and health measures, including training courses, have increased in the last 12 month period. However, a smaller 12.6% of professionals disagreed with this and said that their company had made cutbacks on safety expenditure in the last year.
Almost half of those surveyed felt that HSE regulations were at optimum level and not too excessive. A quarter even felt that there is no question of any excess in regulation in a critical issue like health and safety. Many felt that HSE’s expertise in this area is not being made full use of. According to the respondents, if HSE is asked to be involved in advice, support and policy of businesses, many more accidents can be prevented. The respondents also supported the need for more HSE inspections.
About 70% of the respondents said that health and safety were taken care of adequately in their organisations, but a quarter thought that they were not considered top priority. Regular training and awareness programs are thought to be essential by respondents for bringing about improvements in this area.
Workplace Law Training & Consulting is equipped to provide professionally accredited training in key areas of workplace law and practice. Accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health to deliver internationally recognised health and safety courses; right from fire risk assessments to improving upon awareness and attitude, and communication about safety to improve the health and safety culture within an organisation.
