13 November 2009, 09/267
Reduce health and safety risks in your
workplace
Health and safety is important in the workplace. If you want to
stay ahead of your game and reduce potential risks, why not join a
special group.
West Lancashire Borough Council has set up a new Occupational
Health and Safety Group, in partnership with a collective of local
businesses. The aim of the Group is to help employers protect the
health, safety and welfare of people working in West Lancashire and
to promote good practice.
The Group is meeting four times a year to keep up to date with
legislation, raise awareness of health and safety issues, provide
support and to share ideas.
When the Group last met they looked at the importance of risk
assessments, which was also this year’s theme for European Health
and Safety Week, which was held recently. The Council’s Commercial
Safety Team joined up with Lancashire Fire & Rescue to give a
presentation to members on how to use risk assessment to reduce
hazards, fire and injury in their respective businesses. The Group
found this session useful and that risk assessments don’t need to
be complicated, also that they are simply a careful examination of
what could cause harm to people in their work.
The Group is next due to meet on 9 December, when the event will
include a presentation from the Health and Safety Executive about
moving goods safely, as many accidents can occur through incorrect
manual handling.
Councillor Andrew Fowler, Portfolio Holder for Community
Services, said: "Employers have a moral duty and a legal
responsibility to ensure the health and safety of workers. Setting
up this new group means that we are able to get together to discuss
issues and share ideas that will safeguard people who may be
exposed to risks, and reduce accidents in the workplace. So if you
want to provide a safe environment, why not join the group."
If you are interested in joining the group please contact John
Mulhaney on 01695 585352 or email john.mulhaney@westlancs.gov.uk.
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