4 Hidden Benefits of a Robust Occupational Health and Safety Program
Occupational health and safety (OH&S) programs have been synonymous with preventing workplace accidents and injuries for a long time.
While this is true, a robust occupational health and safety program can also give employers unexpected advantages.
In this article we will look at 4 hidden benefits of a robust occupational health and safety program.
Key Stats:
35.2 million working days lost in 2022/23 (source)
In 2022/2023 the HSE completed 216 criminal prosecutions for breaches of health and safety with a 94% conviction rate (source).
1. Health, Absenteeism and Productivity
Not only do workplace injuries result in physical harm, but also a financial burden.
According to data from the HSE, workplace non-fatal injuries and work-related ill health lead to 35.2 million working days lost in 2022/23 (source).
According to the HSE, average employer costs for workplace accidents are:
- Fatal accidents: £111,500
- Non-fatal accidents: £1,900
- 7 or more days of absence: £7,600 +
A robust occupational health and safety program can serve as a first line of defence against these costs.
Implementing proper measures can significantly reduce the occurrence of accidents and injuries, and consequently employees experience fewer work-related health issues, leading to fewer days off due to injury or illness.
2. Employee Engagement with safety procedure
In many workplaces employees tend to follow the behaviour of peers, which can sometimes lead to risks when it comes to safety. However, strong safety culture establishes clear norms where prioritising safety is standard.
When safety is valued and promoted throughout the company, employees feel empowered to hold themselves and others accountable for complying with rules.
Feeling valued and protected by their employer also significantly improves morale and engagement. Employees who perceive that their company prioritises their health and safety are more likely to feel loyalty and dedication.
3. Safety equals Reputation and positioning
Society has become increasingly more sophisticated which has altered our expectations of businesses.
A business without a strong occupational health and safety program in place is likely to be looked at less-favourably than a business with a robust program in place.
Not having a robust occupational health and safety program can have hidden implications in recruitment, top talent is drawn to companies that seem to be secure and established.
It can also have an impact on sales, customers tend to favour businesses with a good reputation, particularly in the B2B space where partnerships are often celebrated and shared.
Ultimately, occupational health and safety contributes to how your business is positioned in the market.
4. Legal risks of poor health and safety
Not only does a robust occupational health and safety program reduce the risk of injury and illness, it reduces the risk of legal issues. A poor occupational health and safety program is prone to breaches which can lead to fines and other legal repercussions.
In 2022/2023 the HSE completed 216 criminal prosecutions for breaches of health and safety with a massive 94% conviction rate (source).
While the primary target of health and safety breaches in the UK is the organisation, legal liabilities can also extend to individual executives, managers and directors if they are found to have consented or secretly allowed a breach in health and safety.
Improve your occupational health and safety
Prioritising occupational health and safety goes beyond accident prevention; it’s about the success of your business and employees.
Take steps today to ensure your staff are up to date with the latest safety training.
