Industry 'has taken its toll' on Wakefield workers

Employees and managers in Wakefield are teaming up with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to promote "a healthier working future" for the region.

According to business representatives from south-east Wakefield, industry has taken a "real toll" on the health of the working community there.

"It is undoubtedly true that the people best-placed to improve workplace health are the staff and managers who work in them, and that they do this best by working together," explained Geoff Cox, the HSE's head of operations in Yorkshire and Humber.

He added that the initiative, entitled 'Wakefield Healthy Working Community', will bring together trades unions, community groups, fire services and health workers to reduce the "high levels of personal suffering and family hardship" caused by work-related ill health.

Ideas, information, support and encouragement will be offered to businesses in a bid to eliminate the "high cost" to individuals, employers and society of conditions such as stress, musculoskeletal disorders, asthma, dermatitis and asbestos.

Speaking on National Stress Awareness Day last year, Bupa representatives emphasised employers' need to "crack the work-related stress conundrum".

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