David Laffar argues that managing risk can be changed to a culture of “no neccessary risk” if safety-engineered devices are properly evaluated and adopted.
Is protection against sharps injury at work a human right? Is it on an equal footing with the articles enshrined in the United Nations Human Rights Act 19981 of a right to life, liberty, security of person, freedom from torture and slavery, freedom of thought and expression, and the right to a fair trial? The International Labour Organization (ILO), a specialised agency of the United Nations, says it is on that equal footing.2
The ILO has included a safe and healthy working environment as its fifth Fundamental Principle and Right at Work and this recognition signifies that a safe and healthy workplace is not just a desirable practice but a fundamental right that all workers are entitled to, regardless of their location or industry. It underscores the importance of protecting workers from work-related injuries and illness, giving them a stronger legal and moral basis to demand safer working conditions.
Closer to home, UK RIDDOR3 (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) is the law that requires employers, and other people in charge of work premises to report and keep records of all work-related injuries. Either the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or the local authority can respond to ensure compliance with health and safety law.
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