UK could face an 'epidemic' of work injuries
April 29, 2008
New figures from the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have revealed that 175 million working days were lost as a result of sickness absence, at a cost of £650 for each ill worker.
A series of events were staged across the country, including a demonstration outside parliament by General, Municipal, Boilermakers and Allied Trade Union (GMB) who want CCTV cameras installed in taxis following a rise in attacks on drivers.
In response to the statistics, the TUC's general secretary, Brendan Barber, has warned that the country could be on the verge of real problems with worker sicknesses and injuries.
"The UK is currently facing an epidemic of occupational ill health. Many people are ill and in pain as a result of lifting injuries, slips and trips, stress and hearing loss suffered either at or caused by their work," he said.
In a bid to combat the issue, the TUC has released a health and safety handbook to its representatives.
According to the union, more people are killed at work every year than at war.
A series of events were staged across the country, including a demonstration outside parliament by General, Municipal, Boilermakers and Allied Trade Union (GMB) who want CCTV cameras installed in taxis following a rise in attacks on drivers.
In response to the statistics, the TUC's general secretary, Brendan Barber, has warned that the country could be on the verge of real problems with worker sicknesses and injuries.
"The UK is currently facing an epidemic of occupational ill health. Many people are ill and in pain as a result of lifting injuries, slips and trips, stress and hearing loss suffered either at or caused by their work," he said.
In a bid to combat the issue, the TUC has released a health and safety handbook to its representatives.
According to the union, more people are killed at work every year than at war.
More Slips, Trips and Falls news:
South Birmingham PCT to pay GBP 37,500 - December 2, 2008Hospitality workshop focuses on slips and trips - December 2, 2008
Final slice of health and safety Cake - December 1, 2008
British Gas pays £4,700 after accident - November 28, 2008
Awareness day held for schools in Herefordshire - November 12, 2008
