News
Orkney's small businesses offered free help
04/02/2010 12:23:00
A NEW service for Orkney's smaller workplaces is being launched in
February with a lunchtime event, to be followed by free, optional
training workshops.
The service provides free workplace visits, which will offer employers
the opportunity to find out how to keep up to date with legislation and
good practice in Health & Safety, and gain advice and help with any
changes they may need to make.
It is provided through qualified and experienced advisors employed by
the NHS as part of the national 'Healthy Working Lives' programme. The
aim is to support and improve the health of the Scottish workforce as
part of improving community wellbeing and strengthening the economy.
Healthy Working Lives in Orkney offers a range of free services around
employee health and wellbeing, and the specialist Occupational Health
and Safety visiting service is being provided through a collaboration
with NHS Highland.
An adviser based in Inverness will be available to make visits to
Orkney employers on request, working closely with locally based Healthy
Working Lives advisor Mary Anne Crook.
Mrs Crook said: "Potentially, there is
a huge need for this service as smaller employers often don't know
where to start with Health & Safety compliance or who to ask for
help. There can be a reluctance to contact the enforcement agencies for
advice as people fear that they may be prosecuted or shut down before
they have a chance to put things right. There are not many independent
consultants out there available to help, and the cost can be a worry.
This service is free of charge and gives local employers nothing to
lose, and much to gain."
The event, on February 17 in Kirkwall, will start with lunch and a
launch of the service, at which employers can find out more about what
is on offer. There is also an opportunity to attend short afternoon
workshops on four subjects: safety management systems, demystifying
risk assessment, sickness absence management or Health risks at work.
Anyone wanting more information or wishing to book a place for the
event (attendance is by booking only), should contact Mary Anne Crook,
Tel: 01856 879803 or e-mail: maryanne.crook@nhs.net, or complete and
submit the application form published in Orkney Today on
February 4.