New accident book

Accident books now have to comply with the Data Protection Act 1998, after a ruling last year by the Information Commissioner. Unions support the right to privacy but are concerned that the decision may have implications for safety reps and their ability to see accident records.

General union GMB has been told by the HSE that the issues can be reconciled if employers obtain explicit consent from employees to disclose personal information. This means that the injured person must be told clearly what personal data the employer is asking them to reveal, to whom it will be revealed and how it will be used.

The GMB says it is advisable that the consent is in writing and the injured person signs to show their agreement, and has produced a model consent form. It can be downloaded from www.gmb.org.uk/docs/pdfs/modelconsentform.pdf