The crucial role of inductions in managing occupier's liability
In an era of heightened awareness surrounding workplace safety, it’s vital that we prioritise comprehensive induction programmes as the first port of call for fulfilling our duty of care.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), there were 135 work-related fatalities in the UK during 2022/23, the construction industry accounting for the highest number, with 45 deaths, followed by agriculture, forestry, and fishing with 21, and manufacturing with 15 fatalities .
Meanwhile, 561,000 workers reporting non-fatal injuries. The upper limbs were the most injured areas, with 37% of reported injuries affecting fingers, thumbs, hands, wrists, or arms. Back injuries were particularly notable, with 7,803 cases reported, representing 13% of all injuries. Most resulted in more than seven days of absence from work.
Work-related ill health remains a critical issue, with nearly two million workers reporting conditions such as stress, depression, or anxiety. Such mental health issues accounted for approximately half of the reported cases of work-related ill health. In total, 35.2 million working days were lost due to work-related ill health and injury in 2022/23 .
The economic impact of these incidents is substantial. The estimated cost of workplace injuries and new cases of ill health in 2021/22 was £20.7 billion. This includes costs borne by employers, the government, and individuals, with a significant portion attributed to ill health .
This is why occupier's liability is not just a legal responsibility; it’s a moral obligation to safeguard the well-being of all individuals on site. Rigorous adherence to safety protocols is essential in creating an environment where everyone can work and visit without fear of harm - and inductions play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.
At their core, inductions are structured training sessions designed to familiarise contractors and visitors with the specific risks associated with a site and the measures in place to mitigate such risks. They provide essential information on potential risks, ranging from dangerous machinery to hazardous substances, ensuring that individuals are equipped to navigate the site safely.
Moreover, they serve to ensure compliance with legal requirements regarding workplace safety. By offering thorough training and clear instructions, occupiers demonstrate due diligence in fulfilling their obligations to maintain a safe working environment. Documentation of inductions further strengthens this defence against claims of negligence, showcasing proactive efforts to educate individuals about potential hazards.
But inductions are more than just a legal necessity; they are the foundation of building a robust safety culture. By establishing expectations for behaviour on-site and encouraging proactive risk management, they adopt an environment where everyone takes responsibility for safety. This culture of vigilance is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of all stakeholders.
They also provide an opportunity to keep workers and visitors updated on new safety measures, procedures, and lessons learned from incidents. This ongoing education is vital for maintaining awareness and vigilance in dynamic work environments where risks may evolve over time.
Finally, inductions are not just a box-ticking exercise; they are a foundational aspect of safety management systems on safety-critical sites. By prioritising comprehensive induction programmes, occupiers can effectively manage their liability and fulfil their duty of care to protect all individuals within their premises.