MPs support action over young deaths at work
March 7th 2007 A scheme which aims to dramatically cut deaths and accidents among young people in the workplace, is gaining support in Parliament.
MPs are calling for debate and action in response to a six point action plan put forward by IOSH calling for its Workplace hazard awareness course to be made mandatory for year 10 pupils. This would mean that young workers are made aware of health and safety issues before they start work experience.
Over the last decade 14,500 teenagers have been seriously injured at work and 66 killed. These injuries and deaths are considered to be unnecessary and largely preventable.
"Young people at the beginning of their working lives, through lack of life experience and health and safety training are particularly vulnerable to workplace hazards," comments Micheal Clapham MP, Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Occupational Safety and Health who has sponsored an Early Day Motion on the proposals.
Across all parties, 89 MPs have signed up to Early Day Motion 254, Protecting Young People in the Workplace, and Prime Minister, Rt. Hon Tony Blair MP, voiced his support for the plan during Prime Minister's Question Time: "The HSE and IOSH are absolutely right to bring forward a plan that will help to make young people more aware of the potential hazards in the workplace."
"Protecting the vulnerable is an essential mark of a civilised society, adds Michael Clapham, "and IOSH's proposed measures are a practical solution to this issue which I strongly support."
For further information, just  click here. More articles from IOSH: | 
