Workplace accident news
05/01/2010

Lack of training is "disgraceful" say Unison

A Unison representative has dubbed the lack of proper training and equipment offered to their members as "disgraceful" in a report for a South West paper looking at the union's representation or workers during personal injury claims in 2009.

The spokesperson made calls for employers to adhere to Health and Safety Executive regulations citing the £28million in personal injury compensation paid to Unison's members across the nation after workplace accidents.

He said, "Sadly, many of these accidents could and should have been prevented by employers.

"It is clear to me that some employers are still not taking the necessary steps to safeguard their staff.

"It is disgraceful that in 2009 so many Unison members have suffered crippling back injuries when, given the proper training or equipment, these could be prevented."

In the South West alone, a total of almost £3million in compensation was awarded after personal injury claims made by public sector workers. The vast majority of these payments were for road accidents, back injuries, and for slips, trips and falls.