Managing health and safety

The topic of health and safety at work is one that is high on the agenda for many businesses. Within the engineering and manufacturing industries, health and safety is a particularly pertinent aspect of both the employer’s and employees’ working day.

It is not surprising that the demand for professionals skilled in health and safety is on the rise as businesses increase the focus on the commitment to protecting the health of their employees. Safeguarding the health and safety of individuals at work is now much more than just a tick-the-box activity for employers. Loss of productivity due to injury or work-related illness is a big concern for businesses and as the risks within the sector are high, so too are the regulations to help protect employees. 
There are a lot of hazards working in manufacturing and engineering. Throughout any one process the risk of injury, without proper precautions in place, can be huge. Through regular evaluations and tight management, the loss of time and costs associated with workplace injuries and illness can be minimised. Developing a risk-averse workplace culture is key.

Health, safety and environment (HSE) in manufacturing

According to data collected from the LFS, reported by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive), some 80,000 workers in manufacturing are suffering from a work-related illness each year.  
The most common accidents causing fatal injuries include:
  • Fall from height
  • Contact with machinery 
  • Struck by object
  • Trapped by something collapsing/overturning 
Non-fatal injuries:
  • Lifting handling
  • Slipping, tripping or falling on the same level
  • Struck by object
  • Contact with machinery 
Companies seen to be placing their employees at risk and not following stringent health and safety procedures are in danger of facing serious penalties which in turn will negatively affect the reputation and sustainability of the business. High staff turnover and difficulty attracting new talent are just a few of the recruitment implications of failing to manage appropriate health and safety regulations. 

Hiring HSE professionals

We have recently seen a rise in the number of HSE roles our clients are recruiting for which is a promising sign for the industry. In particular, there is a strong focus on behavioural safety (cultural). Behavioural safety specialists can help develop a safety aware culture and are able to implement sustainable safety processes.
When hiring a new staff member to manage health and safety in your business there are some key skills you should be mindful to look out for. Those who have excellent people skills and are able to communicate effectively are essential. Many of our clients are especially interested in candidates who possess a NEBOSH Diploma but in some cases, experience can outweigh the qualifications. An individual who is able to apply policy and regulations to a business’ operations practically in accordance with the theory behind it rather than simply throwing the book is highly valuable. In order to help develop a culture that is highly aware of and adherent to health and safety practices, it is important that those implementing such programmes work with the operation and not against it but still have the resolve to champion and, where necessary, enforce the right way of doing things. 
Looking forward, health and safety professionals could and, perhaps should, be viewed as a key stakeholder in the business to ensure the wellbeing of people at work is kept high on the agenda. 
If you are looking to hire health and safety specialists into your team, or would like to discuss how we can assist with your recruitment processes, contact your local office today. Alternatively, submit a job spec and one of our expert consultants will be in touch. 
Louise McReynolds
Associate Director
T: +44 113 388 9054