Workplace Report September 2005

Health & safety news

CWU criticises RIDDOR

The CWU communication workers' union is seeking major changes to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).

In its response to a government consultation, the union asserted that the current regulations are "confusing and have some glaring omissions".

"RIDDOR is widely ignored and misunderstood by many employers and managers. There is much under-reporting and the law is not enforced," said CWU health and safety officer Dave Joyce. "There should be specific duties on employers to investigate accidents and to promptly notify, consult and involve safety representatives included in the amended regulations."