EAST DEVON: Businesses urged to ensure workers’ safety

Slips and trips cost country �800 million in one year.

ST John Ambulance is urging businesses in East Devon to ensure their staff are safe at work.

More than 1,200 people received major injuries at work last year and a further 2,650 people had to take more than three days off as a result of slipping, tripping or falling at work – costing the country around �800 million during 2008/2009.

Now St John Ambulance is offering small and medium sized businesses a new health and safety course, designed to keep workers safe. Those completing the course get the added bonus of free, impartial advice from a St John Ambulance safety expert for three years afterwards.

Micaela Owen, the regional training manager for St John Ambulance, said: ‘Slips and trips are the most common cause of workplace injury in Britain.

“Last year, 180 people died from their injuries.

“Employers might think they are doing all they can to keep workers safe but they could do a lot more. Poor health and safety practices can cost businesses a fortune so it’s important to get it right.”

The new, two-day St John Ambulance course, Health and Safety Basics, covers relevant legislation and how to comply, provides an overview of risk assessments and basic procedures, introduces health and safety language and explains how to keep up to date with changes.

The next course takes place in Exeter on November 22 and 23. For more information, or to book a place, contact 08700 10 49 50 or visit www.sja.org.uk