Welsh Assembly Government Signs Health and Safety Pledge

Five people in Wales died as a result of work-related incidents in 2008/09, and more than 1600 suffered major injuries at work.

Over the same period, 1.5 million working days were lost in Wales due to workplace injury and work-related ill-health.

First Minister for Wales, Rhodri Morgan has signed the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) pledge on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government - an initiative which aims to bring organisations together to commit to reduce the number of work-related deaths, injuries and ill-health.

The First Minister said: "The fact that more than 1600 people have suffered serious injuries in the workplace in the last year is shocking. Work related accidents can be avoided and it is important that people are made to feel safe while going about their job."

"The Welsh Assembly Government has responsibility for business, economy and the health service, all of which are adversely impacted by work-related ill health. We call on employers to make the investment in good health and safety and better manage workplace risks."

HSE Director for Wales, Terry Rose added: ìThis year we have seen a reduction in workplace fatalities and serious injuries in Wales, but this will be little comfort for those directly affected by what should have been preventable incidents. We are delighted that the Welsh Assembly Government has pledged its support to our initiative and hope that together we can take steps to reduce the numbers even further."

Added HSE Board member, Sandy Blair: "Even in a challenging economic climate, the risks in the workplace are ever present as the latest statistics show. The challenge is to maintain the improvements that have been made as we move towards recovery and increased activity in some sectors.

"In signing up to the pledge, the Welsh Assembly Government is agreeing to take a commonsense and practical approach to health and safety, looking at what it can do internally as well as it acting as a call to other organisations and businesses in Wales to make the same commitment.

"Better health and safety performance can not only save lives, but can bring about real business benefits."

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