Businesses 'unaware of health and safety law changes'
July 14, 2008
New research has revealed less than 50 per cent of businesses are aware of impending changes to health and safety legislation.
According to a study by the Red Cross, a large number of firms are either not compliant or cannot say whether they adhere to workplace safety regulations and small and medium-sized companies are the most at risk of doing so.
From October 2009 new guidelines governing the number and category of first-aid-trained staff will come into force and employers must be aware of and follow the new regulations.
Anna Brown, head of customer services for the British Red Cross first-aid-training, said providing adequate safety advice would be welcomed by employees.
"Ensuring that your employees learn first aid is so much more than just complying with your health and safety obligations. Encouraging people to learn a life skill shows your commitment to the employee," she stated.
The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities and personnel to enable first-aid to be given to staff if they suffer an injury or become ill at work.
According to a study by the Red Cross, a large number of firms are either not compliant or cannot say whether they adhere to workplace safety regulations and small and medium-sized companies are the most at risk of doing so.
From October 2009 new guidelines governing the number and category of first-aid-trained staff will come into force and employers must be aware of and follow the new regulations.
Anna Brown, head of customer services for the British Red Cross first-aid-training, said providing adequate safety advice would be welcomed by employees.
"Ensuring that your employees learn first aid is so much more than just complying with your health and safety obligations. Encouraging people to learn a life skill shows your commitment to the employee," she stated.
The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities and personnel to enable first-aid to be given to staff if they suffer an injury or become ill at work.
More Legislation news:
Volunteer organisations 'need' health and safety training - September 4, 2008Widening of asbestos compensation opposed - September 3, 2008
65% see health and safety regulations as essential - September 1, 2008
Equity fines for corporate accountability - August 26, 2008
Employee health and safety 'must move up firms' priority list' - August 22, 2008
