Businesses targeted in health and safety check

Hundreds of businesses in West Yorkshire are being targeted in a health and safety blitz.

A total of 24 workers were fatally injured at work and 2,840 received major injuries in the Yorkshire and Humber region during 2008/09.

More than 500 businesses in Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield will be the focus of an intensive two-week safety push when the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) joins forces with local authorities to carry out a hazard healthcheck.

From Monday HSE and council inspectors will be visiting businesses to see first-hand what health and safety practices are in place to protect employees and to ensure that relevant legislation is being followed.

John Rowe, a principal inspector for the HSE, said: “This targeted inspection campaign involves HSE and local councils working together to really make a difference. Companies will be given the support and advice they need to turn their workplaces into safer, healthier working environments for the benefit of their employees and members if the public.

“However, we won’t hesitate to take enforcement action should we come across any significant safety breaches putting people at real risk.”

Included in the target areas are key industrial and commercial business parks and sites including converted mills involving firms employing any number from a handful to hundreds of workers.

Coun Mary Harkin, who has responsibility for Health and Safety at Kirklees Council, said: “This proactive campaign will help businesses and individuals by offering free and confidential advice and support on health and safety related issues.

“We expect the campaign to reduce the frequency and impact of workplace accidents and ill health on individuals and businesses.

“We expect to see big improvements across the board regarding health and safety and hope that health and safety is being properly addressed by all companies we visit.”