IOSH backs Buncefield report

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has given its backing to a new report calling for a review of the planning system for land use around major hazard sites.

A study into the Buncefield disaster, entitled Recommendations on land use planning and the control of societal risk around major hazard sites, found the system needs to be revised to make it a more cohesive one which factors in risks to society as a whole.

Chris Marsh, chair of IOSH's hazardous industries group, claims the recommendations in the report must be implemented to ensure the health and safety of the public is not compromised.

"Risk to society does need to be considered much more when assessing land use plans around major hazard sites, in order to improve risk management and protect local communities. We need a joined-up, risk-based system and it needs to be properly explained to the public," he said.

Mr Marsh went on to say better sharing of accident data could help people exchange information and help prevent disasters from occurring.

Bosses should also review their management systems for maintenance to equipment, Mr Marsh added.

Recently, oil giant Total admitted the damage caused by the Buncefield explosion was foreseeable.