Good leadership 'required for workplace safety'

Reducing health and safety risks in the workplace requires good leadership, an expert says.

Training and consultancy manager for Norwich Union Risk Services John Phillips states those in a company responsible for its health and safety policies must display a strong leadership streak if these are to be deployed effectively.

"Good leadership is critical when it comes to managing occupational safety and health," he claims.

Identifying the importance of an Health and Safety Executive (HSE) checklist produced to help those in these positions understand requirements, Mr Phillips describes it as an "important supplement" to regulations.

Claiming a company's attitude and approach to these issues comes "from the top", he says it is important directors and managers work through the checklist for their firm.

He also highlights the importance of health and safety training for those in these positions.

Among the questions on the checklist, the HSE asks if every member of staff is sufficiently trained.

Other targets include providing information to the board regularly and ensuring concerns are passed on to the highest level.