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Key facts and statistics
- According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), in 2020/21, there were 1.6 million work-related illnesses and 693,000 workplace injuries in Great Britain alone.
- The cost of workplace injuries and ill health to UK businesses was estimated at £16.2 billion in 2019/20, underscoring the economic impact of poor safety practices.
- Studies have shown that effective health and safety training reduces workplace accidents by up to 70%.
Key definitions
Health and safety training encompasses the provision of information, instruction, and supervision to employees, ensuring they understand the risks associated with their work and how to mitigate them.
- Hazard - Any potential source of harm or adverse health effect on a person or persons.
- Risk - The likelihood that a hazard will cause harm, combined with the severity of that harm.
Relevant legislation, regulations, and best practice
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 serves as the primary legislative framework in the UK, placing a duty of care on employers to ensure their employees' health, safety, and welfare.
- Regulations such as the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 provide specific guidance on managing risks and hazards in the workplace.
- Best practices include conducting regular risk assessments, providing adequate training and supervision, and fostering a safety culture through effective communication and employee engagement.
Importance of health and safety training
- Mitigating risks - Health and safety training equips employees with the knowledge and skills to identify potential hazards and take appropriate measures to mitigate risks, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
- Legal compliance - Compliance with health and safety legislation is a legal requirement and a moral obligation. Effective training ensures that employers meet their duty of care obligations and uphold the rights of their workforce.
- Promoting productivity - A safe working environment boosts employee morale, productivity, and retention. Investing in health and safety training demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, fostering a positive workplace culture.
Recommendations
- Prioritise training - Ensure all employees receive comprehensive health and safety training relevant to their roles and responsibilities.
- Regular review - Continuously assess and update training programs to reflect changing workplace hazards, technological advancements, and legislative requirements.
- Employee engagement - Encourage active participation and feedback from employees, empowering them to contribute to improving health and safety practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the importance of health and safety training cannot be overstated. It serves as a proactive measure to safeguard the well-being of employees, mitigate risks, and ensure legal compliance. Organisations can create safer, more productive workplaces by investing in robust training programs and fostering a safety culture. Let's prioritise health and safety training as an integral component of our business operations, striving towards a safer and healthier future.
Click here to ensure the safety and well-being of your workforce and explore our comprehensive range of CPD accredited health and safety training courses on ComplyPlus LMS™ by The Mandatory Training Group. Empower your employees with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in a safe working environment.
About the author
Rose Mabiza
Rose has dedicated over 15 years to improving health and social care quality through practice, targeted education and training. Her extensive experience includes working with older adults, individuals with mental health conditions, and people with autism and learning disabilities.
