HSE plans migrant worker checks

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced it is to make spot checks at employment agencies in Cambridgeshire to ensure migrant workers are receiving adequate induction and training.

HSE inspectors and environmental health officers plan to contact agencies to find out about their health and safety management strategies relating to migrant workers as well as to see the kind of premises they are sent to work in.

Agencies are being warned that any problems which are found by inspectors could lead to further visits by health and safety investigators who could take enforcement action if need be.

David Head, principal inspector for the executive, said the organisation is worried about the well-being of migrant workers employed in the UK.

"We are concerned that migrant workers are being put at risk due to a variety of reasons, including lack of understanding of safety information and lack of instruction," he stated.

A survey by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health of food and drink manufacturers found half of the respondents' health and safety policies did not address how non-English-speaking employees were instructed and trained regarding health and safety.