Bernard Allen
Question:108 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps, if any, she will take regarding the 15 per cent increase in accidents notified to the Health and Safety Authority. [22563/99]
Written Answers. - Health and Safety Regulations.
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989, which is the principal legislation dealing with occupational health and safety, it is the primary duty of every individual employer to identify, assess and manage the health and safety needs of his or her own business.
The administration, enforcement and promotion of occupational health and safety legislation is a day-to-day matter for the National Authority for Occupational Safety and Health – Health and Safety Authority – which is the statutory body charged with overall responsibility in this area. The authority works to a targeted annual work programme, which is approved by its tripartite management board, and covers all employment sectors, focusing on priority sectors with high accident rates.
I assure the Deputy that the authority continuously monitors the levels of workplace injuries and fatalities to ensure that the most appropriate policies and practices are in place to assist employers and employees provide a safe and healthy workplace for our rapidly expanding workforce.