Health And Safety Authority To Target High Risk Sectors

The program sets out the targets, key priorities and activities for the Authority in 2009 and includes over 17,000 workplace inspections. Speaking at the launch Minister Kelleher said, "The intent of this programme of work is clear - to keep safety and health high on the agenda for employees and employers alike. We live in difficult economic times but the right to work in a healthy and safe environment remains. While the Health and Safety Authority understands the tough circumstances facing most employers, worker safety, health and well-being are no less important and we cannot allow the huge gains we've made in the last number of years to slip."

The Authority is planning an inspection programme that covers all sectors but recognises that there are certain high risk sectors that will require more attention. Martin O'Halloran, CEO of the Health and Safety Authority said, "We always review fatality, injury and illness statistics for previous years and target our resources where they are most needed. This year is no different and includes a focus on the high risk sectors of agriculture, quarries and construction. The farming community in particular needs to put health and safety at the top of the agenda."

As well as the Authority's enforcement programme, there are a number of key national programmes planned for 2009 including in the areas of occupational health and education. With occupational illness on the increase, the recommendations of a workplace health and well-being strategy are to be implemented and occupational health inspection numbers will be increased. The education programme will focus on mainstreaming health and safety at all levels of the system with the overall aim of targeting the 'workers of the future'.

Mr. O'Halloran stated, "The Authority is very conscious of what's happening in workplaces and the difficult circumstances facing employers. However, smart businesses know that in the long term it pays to invest in employee safety, health and welfare."

"The Health and Safety Authority is committed to working in partnership with all key stakeholders and we will continue to provide a supportive role where we can. In particular, small and micro businesses should not dread a health and safety inspection but instead use it as an opportunity to learn how they can protect their workers as effectively and efficiently as possible," he added.