Health and safety inquiry launched in
Scotland
An inquiry into health and safety across Scotland has been
launched by The Commons Scottish Affairs Committee.
The inquiry comes following findings from the National Audit
Office which said that workplace accidents cost Scotland £187
million last year, and the country had more serious injuries and
deaths than in England and Wales.
Ian Davidson, Scottish Affairs Committee Chairman, said, "This
is the launch of what we hope will be a very thorough investigation
of the hazards faced by workers in Scotland.
"Every death or serious injury is a human tragedy and we want to
work with both sides of industry and the HSE to see what could be
done to reduce this toll," he added.
The inquiry will focus on the effectiveness of the current
regulations governing health and safety in Scotland, alongside the
impact of these regulations on businesses. It will also look at how
the effectiveness of the Health and Safety Executive in Scotland
compares with that in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
In order to aid the inquiry, The Commons Scottish Affairs
Committee has called for written evidence to be submitted by
Thursday 16 June 2011. Oral evidence sessions will be opened up to
the public soon afterwards.