12 November 2004 - UK Strategy for Health and Safety Aimed at Being World Leaders
Mr. Bill Callaghan, Chair of the Health and Safety Commission addressed the meeting at County Durham and said:
"We will debate with others how the system might be strengthened and - where there are gaps and limitations - how they might be filled. The HSC, HSE and local authorities cannot do this alone; we need to understand and value more the contribution of others to improving health and safety - not just employers but everyone including workers, their representative organisations and professional bodies."
"It goes without saying that we would welcome more resources and this would help bring improvements in health and safety," but more of the same - even with increased resources and efficiency - will not deal with emerging health issues or the changing world of work and the demands of our stakeholders.
"This means that HSE and local authorities must concentrate on the things they are best placed to do, including inspection and enforcement, and to do them where they have the greatest impact.
"This is a strategy about change, about doing things differently, getting others involved or even saying no in some cases."
Mr. David Cole, Health and Safety Executive's partnership manager in the North East also commented:
"The principal aim of the programme is a more effective use of HSE and local authority resources collectively, to reduce accidents and ill-health at work. This in turn will contribute to initiatives for regeneration, health and wellbeing in local communities and ultimately enhance the employment and business viability of the region."
The next event will take place on Wednesday, 24 November 2004, at the National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield, Yorkshire.
The full document can be accessed by clicking the following link: A Strategy for workplace health and safety in Great Britain to 2010 and Beyond
Article by Alexandra Johnston
