The final days of the 'Elf'

Sypol responds to Lord Young's comments on his report to the Coalition Government reviewing health and safety.

Lord Young's report is likely to go some way to getting rid of the 'Elf' in health and safety. We can all make a positive contribution to the serious issue of saving lives of people at work. However, somewhere along the way it's been used as an excuse to increase red tape, encourage costly litigation and a mindset that says "Can't do".

Any positive steps to reduce the burden on businesses and bring to an end the climate of fear that suppresses initiative is most welcome, but with a caveat. Around 180(i) people are killed each year at work, and 246,000(ii) are injured. Each one leaves a trail of tragedy in its wake and we must not erode away the excellent work being done in businesses of every size across the country to help prevent accidents and ill health.

Sensible, robust health and safety legislation should be a benefit to all of us and not a burden. We encourage the Government to get rid of the 'Elf' but remember the importance of sensible safety management.

(i) HSE Statistics 2008/09
(ii) HSE Statistics 2008/09