Companies warned over health and safety cutbacks

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) is warning companies not to cut back on health and safety standards in a bid to save money.

According to the organisation, firms looking to make savings due to the deteriorating state of the economy should not sacrifice health and safety as it could have "disastrous consequences" for the business and staff.

Ray Hurst, president of the institution, believes companies may be tempted to cut spending on workplace wellbeing initiatives but warned the Corporate Manslaughter Act means they could face serious penalties should they be found responsible for a worker's injuries.

"I'd urge all organisations to ensure health and safety is very close to the top of their agenda even during an economic slowdown … health and safety is often about what is reasonably practicable, balancing the level of risk against cost," he said.

Norman Selwyn, an employment law specialist, recently claimed the Corporate Manslaughter Act will lead to more companies being successfully prosecuted for health and safety breaches.