Workers still at high risk

More people are injured at work in Lancashire than in any other area of Britain, says a new survey by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

In Lancashire in 2006/7, 816 people suffered major and fatal workplace accidents. Oldham ranked 13th in the overall North-West league table with 116 incidents over the same period.

Lesley Mercer, of the society, said: “Despite legislation putting the responsibility for staff safety in the hands of employers, there is still an unreasonably high rate of workers being seriously and even fatally injured while doing their jobs.

“One major or fatal injury at work is one too many. Employers need to take immediate steps to ensure that workplace accidents are prevented and that all employees are protected.

“Physiotherapy plays a key role in workplace rehabilitation helping employees remain or return to work and we are encouraging employers to assist staff in accessing physio services.”