Preventing workplace harm must be a national priority, says IOSH

IOSH has called on the new Government to put worker safety, health and wellbeing at the centre of its plans to help build a more productive and sustainable economy. 

In a letter to the new Prime Minister, IOSH said focusing on prevention would improve lives, boost productivity and help future-proof the workforce.

IOSH also backed the Keep Britain Working Review, saying preventing work-related ill health, enabling early intervention and supporting rehabilitation are all key to getting more people into work and helping them return. 

Vanessa Harwood-Whitcher, CEO at IOSH, said: “The new Prime Minister has a significant opportunity to improve people’s lives by placing prevention at the core of government policy. 

“Too many people continue to experience work-related illness and injury, with profound consequences for individuals, businesses and the wider economy.”

The letter included further requests, such as tackling the changing world of work, managing risks linked to climate change, and maintaining a strong focus on mental health. 

IOSH also urged the Government to make sure health and safety is part of planning, design and delivery of housing and infrastructure projects. 

Harwood-Whitcher added: “As the world of work continues to evolve through technological change, the transition to a greener economy and changing workforce demographics, we must ensure that health, safety and wellbeing remain a priority.