Work accidents cost €3bn a year

COMPANY bosses have been told health and safety is a sound investment as workplace accidents cost the economy €3 billion a year.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has revealed a three-year plan that aims to protect and safeguard staff.

Martin O’Halloran, HSA chief executive, said safe and healthy workplaces go hand-in-hand with commercial success.

“Conservative estimates put the cost of workplace accidents to the economy at well over €3 billion annually. Business owners and managers must realise that a systemic approach to worker safety, health and welfare is not just a legal requirement, but an investment in the future success of the business,” he said.

So far this year, 10 people have been killed in work-related accidents with an estimated 150 workers suffering an injury or illness due to their work each day.

“The real tragedy is that these accidents are foreseeable and preventable,” added Mr O’Halloran.

The HSA plan was launched by Minister for Labour Affairs Dara Calleary. It plans to enable employers and employees to reduce risks, gain commitment to safe and healthy workplaces in enterprises and hold accountable those who disregard their duties and responsibilities.

Mr Calleary said that the scheme builds on the significant progress made on worker safety, health and welfare in recent years.

“It takes account of the realities of running a business during very difficult economic circumstances while ensuring that the safety, health and welfare of all workers is given the priority it deserves,” he said.

Mr Calleary cautioned firms against turning back the clock on the protection of employees.

“Huge improvements have undoubtedly been made and the challenge now is not just to maintain those gains, but to build on them,” he said.

“There are still important concerns to address at a time of unprecedented pressures on practically every business in the country.

“Working in close partnership and co-operation with key stakeholders, I’m confident that the Health and Safety Authority will be successful in achieving its vision of a national culture where all commit to safe and healthy workplaces,” he said.