Report: Chemical Industry Accidents In Line With HSE Data

The Chemical Industries Association (CIA) commended the report launched by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) regarding health & safety offences and penalties for 2004/5.

London, UK — The Report explains that the number of cases prosecuted throughout UK industry, following HSE investigations, has decreased significantly since 2000, but that the average penalty per case prosecuted in that time has increased significantly.

This steady decline in the number of accidents and ill health reported to HSE is mirrored by CIA performance data, with the total number of reportable accidents and cases of reportable diseases also decreasing. We believe this is a reflection of our members' recognition of health and safety as their highest priority – a commitment underpinned by both the CIA's Responsible Care programme and its more recent Sustainable Development initiative.

As a high hazard industry it is right that the chemical industry is robustly regulated. Nevertheless, we agree with the report's recognition that a risk free society is neither desirable nor possible, and that sensible health and safety is about managing risks, not eliminating them.

Steve Elliott, Director, Business Environment at CIA, said: "the chemical industry has taken a lead in developing tough performance goals for our members and the results show that these are beginning to bear fruit in terms of improved performance."

He continues: "this is the first step on a journey of continuous improvement. We welcome the report's acknowledgment that HSE is working with others to manage risks at an early stage as a means of achieving this.

SOURCE: Chemical Industries Association