Alan North | Group Compliance Director
Health & Safety at work Act 1974, is celebrating its 50-year anniversary.
This month marks the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA), a landmark piece of legislation in the United Kingdom that has been instrumental in shaping workplace safety standards.
Enacted in 1974, the Act has had a profound impact on the way employers and employees approach health and safety, leading to significant reductions in workplace accidents and illnesses. This milestone presents an opportunity to reflect on the importance of the Act and its enduring relevance in today's rapidly changing work environment.
Significance of the Health and Safety Act
The HSWA was a revolutionary piece of legislation when it was introduced, providing a comprehensive framework for managing health and safety in the workplace. The Act established clear responsibilities for employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees and for employees to take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others.
One of the most significant aspects of the Act was the creation of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), a dedicated body responsible for enforcing the Act and providing guidance.
Impact Over 50 Years
Over the past five decades, the Health and Safety Act has been instrumental in reducing workplace accidents and promoting a culture of safety. Statistics show that the number of workplace fatalities and serious injuries has significantly declined since the Act's implementation. This reduction is a direct result of the stricter regulations, better training, and increased awareness that the Act has brought about.
The Act has also fostered a cultural shift, where health and safety considerations are now integral to business operations. We at Glen are not only motivated by compliance but also recognise the broader benefits of maintaining safe working conditions, including higher productivity, reduced absenteeism, and enhanced employee morale.
Ongoing Relevance and Future Challenges
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety Act, it is important to acknowledge its ongoing relevance. The workplace has changed dramatically since 1974, with the rise of new technologies, remote working, and increased awareness of mental health issues. The Act's broad and adaptable framework has allowed it to remain applicable in addressing these new challenges, although continuous updates and amendments have been necessary to keep pace with evolving risks.
Looking to the future, the principles of the Health and Safety Act will continue to be vital in ensuring safe workplaces. Emerging challenges, such as those posed by artificial intelligence, automation, and post-pandemic working conditions, will require innovative approaches to health and safety.
At Glen, understanding the Common Hazards can help us better protect ourselves. This year we have had 17 reported accidents.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Working on stairs and falling backwards, tripping over cables, slipping on wet floors, tripping in cluttered cleaning cupboards and wearing improper footwear are leading causes of these incidents at Glen.
Injury
Heavy lifting and simple twisting has led to strains and sprains for a number of our colleagues, we have reminded the team of our manual handling training:
Posture, weight, distance and floor surface.
Chemical Exposure
Cleaning products can be hazardous if not managed correctly. All our incidents were caused by splash back. Our products are safe and everyone who uses cleaning products should attend a COSHH awareness session to understand the hazards and risks and wear the correct PPE.
Every one of us plays a part in maintaining a safe work environment. Let’s work together to maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for everyone.
If you have any questions or need clarification on any safety procedures, please don’t hesitate to ask. Health & Safety is our priority.