Law's ten year campaign has happy ending
August 7th 2007 A key piece of legislation that the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) believes will help to save the lives of workers across Great Britain has come to fruition after more than a decade of campaigning.
The Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act finally became law on the 26th July, ten years after Labour promised it in its 1997 manifesto. And IOSH, Europe’s largest professional health and safety body, said that this will act as a driver to improve health and safety standards and also give families of victims killed through corporate negligence a greater sense of justice.
Lisa Fowlie, IOSH President, said: “We are delighted that this important piece of legislation is now on the statute book, as it will help save lives by focusing decision-makers on the importance of health and safety. Culpable organisations that cause death through gross management failure, can expect severe fines, compulsory remedial orders and damage to their reputation if convicted.
“It’s a shame it has taken such a long time for this law to become reality. Tragically, thousands of families have lost love ones in workplace accidents over the decade it’s taken to get here. Arguably, if passed earlier, this Act could have prevented some of these deaths and if not, at least provided some sense of justice to the bereaved.
“Now we have the new Act, we must ensure everyone is fully aware of their health and safety responsibilities. That’s why IOSH has also repeatedly called for improved guidance and enforceable directors duties.”
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