News release
26 August 2010 - NR 32/10
IOSH expresses concern over worsening situation offshore
In response to the recent report from the
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) the Institution of Occupational
Safety and Health (IOSH) has expressed its concern for what appears
to be a worsening situation.
The report released by HSE on Tuesday concluded that the number
of leaks from oil rigs operating in British waters and the number
of injuries have risen significantly in the past year.
IOSH Trustee and Freelance Health and Safety Consultant Ian
Waldram says, "Most of these figures are disappointing and a
reminder to us all involved in the offshore sector, that achieving
year-on-year safety improvements is a real challenge. There have
been some fantastic improvements within the offshore health and
safety sector over the past two years, however, it is clear that
some of these improvements have been reversed, most particularly in
respect of major injuries and serious hydrocarbon releases.
Waldram goes on to say, "The more detailed data which underpins
these headlines will be published by HSE later this year. Until
then, it is important to reflect on the human consequences of the
injuries sustained by workers, of the helicopter and marine
fatalities which are not included in the statistics, and also the
fact that there are one or two significant unignited leaks per
week. Whilst not all of these would lead to losses on the scale of
Piper Alpha or Deepwater Horizon, the potential is clear."
- Ends -
Notes for editors:
IOSH is the Chartered body for health and safety professionals.
With more than 40,000 members in 85 countries, we’re the world’s
biggest professional health and safety organisation.
We set standards, and support, develop and connect our members
with resources, guidance, events and training. We’re the voice of
the profession, and campaign on issues that affect millions of
working people.
IOSH was founded in 1945 and is a registered charity with
international NGO status.
Media enquiries
For more information please contact:
- Tim Walsh, Media
Manager, +44 (0)116 257 3252 or +44 (0)797 660 4715
- Amy Chappell,
Media Officer, +44 (0)116 257 3141 or +44 (0)798 000 4494
- Ruth Davies, Media
Officer, +44 (0)116 257 3139 or +44 (0)798 000 4474.