New initiative targets teens before they start work

Teachers and employers will preview a new initiative on 3 November that will teach young people about the hazards they might face when they enter the workplace.

The Workplace Hazard Awareness Course has been developed by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). It forms part of a three-way initiative which includes a new qualification offered by British Safety Council Awards.

The course and qualification aim to provide Year 10 students with a basic understanding of health and safety in the workplace, so that they understand hazards, and what to expect of their employer. All schools in England will soon be notified about the qualification and course through Spectrum, the website and newsletter for schools.

President of IOSH, Neil Budworth, said: ìIn the last ten years in the UK 66 under 19s were killed and over 14,500 were badly injured at work. Many of these accidents happen in the first few weeks on the job, which suggests that not only are inductions inadequate, but that young people may not be prepared for work in the first place. The Workplace hazard awareness course aims to fill part of this gap, by preparing young people for work while they are still at school.î

Jonathan Rees, the HSEís deputy chief executive policy, added: ìWe believe in working in strong partnership and this new qualification is the perfect example of how Government and industry can work together to ensure that tomorrowís workforce has a sound basis for understanding the hazards that confront us every day at work.

David Ballard, Chief Executive of British Safety Council Awards, said: ìThis initiative supports the delivery of health and safety in the National Curriculum. Not only does it help to keep students healthy and safe on work experience, but it also provides them with a nationally recognised qualification.î

Speaking at the preview event:

- Neil Budworth, IOSH president
- Lord Hunt of Kings Heath, the Minister for Health and Safety at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
- Michael Clapham MP, chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Occupational Safety and Health
- Jonathan Rees, deputy chief executive, HSE.