A new survey, conducted by AXA Insurance, claims employees in the leisure and hospitality sectors have poor levels of health and safety in their workplaces.
Figures for the survey were taken from 130 employees injured over the past five years, whilst working in the leisure and hospitality sectors.
The study findings were as follows:
- 57% of accidents occurred in the kitchen.
- 81% suffered cuts or burns.
- Shockingly, only half claimed to have received health and safety training.
- Although accidents in the kitchen were found to be the most common cause of an accident, 23% had slip or trip accidents.
- 7% had been injured by lifting heavy items.
- 9 employees developed repetitive strain injury from their working environment.
The survey also claimed that 66% of leisure sector employees were less likely to have time off to recover from injuries, whereas across all industries, the average time off was 52%.
Doug Barnett, risk strategy manager for AXA, said:
“Employees in the leisure industry need to be particularly aware of the hazards they face in the workplace and should be fully briefed on health and safety procedures.
"Good health and safety procedures are vital to the running of a successful business. Not only is there a legal requirement to meet minimum standards but these injuries can mean employees have to take time off work to recover and lead to compensation pay outs."In light of this, we are advising all employers, to assess the potential risks and dangers that the working environment may pose to their staff and take necessary action”.
Further information and guidance for the leisure industry can be accessed from the HSE website by clicking the following:
Health and safety in the entertainment and leisure industries
Article by Alexandra Johnston
