Protocol on work-related deaths

A revamped Protocol for liaison on work-related deaths has been published by the HSE, the Association of Chief Police Officers and other investigation and prosecution bodies.

The new protocol requires the police to be involved in a manslaughter investigation from the time they arrive at the scene of death and only stop when it becomes apparent during the investigation that there is insufficient evidence' that manslaughter has been committed.

The Centre for Corporate Accountability has welcomed the protocol, but Mick Rix, ASLEF train drivers' union general secretary, said enforcement agencies are not properly considering the possibility of "a failure by companies to protect the lives of workers and the public. Without that, adding another couple of names to the list of those responsible for the investigation will do nothing to save lives and make workplaces safer in the future."