BSIF accepts Lofstedt Review; warns over HSE budget cuts 29 November 2011

Following publication yesterday (28 November 2011) of the Lofstedt review, 'Reclaiming health and safety for all: an independent review of health and safety legislation', the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) supports its recommendations.

"Recommendations made by Professor Lofstedt seem a sensible way forward for the health and safety industry," says BSIF CEO David Lummis.

"The sector specific consolidations of regulations, combined with the removal of health and safety burdens from the self employed in low risk occupations, will improve upon aspects that may be overzealous or superfluous in Britain's current health and safety regime," he explains.

And he adds: "As long as these changes are communicated with all parties clearly and in a timely manner – this reduction in red tape should benefit millions."

BSIF says it is pleased that Professor Lofstedt recognises that the underlying strength of British health and safety legislation, and that possible weakening of its protection and omissions from key sections have been avoided.

"Instead, we are delighted to see that Professor Lofstedt fully recognises Britain's vital role in health and safety and highlights its responsibility in the development of European health and safety legislation," says Lummis.

"By the Government, trade bodies and other industry professionals continuing in their efforts to work closely with other EU member states, the needs of the employers and employees will be better met across Europe."

His only concern: HSE budget cuts in the face of recommendations that will inevitably fall to the agency to enact. "Whilst, we know the HSE carries out a sterling job, its resources, following a large budget cut, will be stretched to full capacity. We hope these restrictions do not impact on the implementation of these recommendations made today by Professor Lofstedt."

The independent review of health and safety legislation, chaired by Professor Ragnar Lofstedt, was commissioned by the Department for Work and Pensions' Minister for Employment, the Rt Hon Chris Grayling MP, in March 2011.

Brian Tinham

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