Construction is often seen as one of the most dangerous
industries to work in. But official figures from the Health and
Safety Executive show that people working in food and drink
manufacturing are more than one and a half times (1.6) more likely
to be injured at work than construction workers.
"Construction has a reputation for being very
dangerous," said Brian Wallace, head of Aviva Risk Management
Solutions (ARMS).
"According to the HSE more people are killed each year in
construction than any other industry. Last year alone there were 53
fatalities.
"In the food and drink industry, 33 people were killed in the last
10 years, making this sector look safer where fatality rates alone
are considered. However, when you look at the bigger picture -
including serious and minor injuries - it's a fact that food and
drink workers are more likely to be involved in an accident than
construction workers.
"It is this high accident rate that has led ARMS to kick-start a
new campaign in 2010 called 'Safety on the Menu'. Offering free
health and safety support to food and drink manufacturers and
retailers the menu of safety solutions includes free telephone
support.
"There's a range of options in the form of downloadable free guides
and ARMS is also offering a free initial consultation from one of
its food and drink sector safety experts."
ARMS' health and safety consultant Helen Toll said: "We're eager to
help food and drink employers reduce injuries. These kinds of
incidents are costly to employers. Many face litigation, while
others count the costs in lost productivity and reputation. Given
the economic climate, we want to help customers by providing a bit
of free advice to help control such costs."