IOSH’s young people campaign gained a significant piece of national recognition during November.
Our efforts in highlighting the dangers young workers face in the workplace, and in developing a Workplace Hazard Awareness Course, were raised during Prime Minister’s Question Time.
Michael Clapham, the chairman of the all-party parliamentary group on occupational safety and health and MP for Barnsley West and Penistone, asked Tony Blair: “The Prime Minister may be aware that over the past decade some 14,500 teenagers have been seriously injured at work. Shockingly, 66 of them died. Will he join me in congratulating the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health and the Health and Safety Executive on preparing a workplace hazards course for year 10 pupils, and will he ask the Education Secretary to consider making that course mandatory throughout the curriculum?”
Mr Blair said in response: “The HSE and IOSH are absolutely right to bring forward a plan that will help to make young people more aware of the potential hazards in the workplace. However, as a result of legislation passed over many years, I am pleased to say that we have an immensely improved record on health and safety in the workplace.”
IOSH president Lisa Fowlie said: “We wait to see what action the Government now takes on ensuring health and safety is properly integrated into the National Curriculum. This is a vitally important issue, and it’s obviously pleasing that it has been given a platform for debate at the very highest level.
“IOSH will continue to press for action from government, educators and employers to ensure that the workers of tomorrow are able to lead a full, fit and happy life.”
