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The number of people taking time off for work-related sickness and injury has fallen over the past 10 years. In 2010/11 around 26.4 million working days were lost, 4.4 million due to workplace injuries and 22.1 million due to work-related illness. * Looking after your staff can really improve productivity. It makes those working for you feel valued and cared for, which in turn is more likely to encourage them to look after the company's best interests. If you give them the knowledge, skills and tools required to promote a safe working environment, the returns can benefit your business. Six business benefits from following health and safety legislation: Reduce the number of days lost to sickness or injury On average, each person who took time off for workplace injuries and illnesses needed 15 days off sick. To a small company this amount of lost man hours can be crippling. Don't underestimate the effects of stress. On average, those suffering from stress, anxiety or depression needed 27 days off work.* Don't forget to protect yourself from illness or injury! If you are unable to work, who will run your business for you? Retain staff Employees who are given the correct training and equipment won't want to leave. They will also feel protected and safe - another reason to stay in their current job. Boost productivity If staff feel cared for they will be more motivated to work harder for you. Motivated staff are more likely to put your company's best interests first. Your employees will feel more valued, and more confident to work independently. With the right training and tools they can learn to assess dangers themselves, which will save you time and energy and keep the work moving. Guard your company's reputation Your company's reputation is paramount. Any sort of accident or incident could lose you customers. It can be very difficult to make people forget, it's much better to prevent accidents happening than try to mop up the damage to your reputation afterwards. Protect yourself from legal action Could your company afford to defend itself in a legal battle? Your insurance may cover the majority of the costs but lost man hours in investigations cannot be replaced. As well as the potential damage to your reputation... Pay less for your insurance Any sort of claim or complaint could drastically increase your premiums. Keep your staff safe and keep your premiums low. Health and safety legislation is time consuming initially, but the rewards can really pay off. Health and safety training does not have to be formal, or costly. Using video of real life events in your training can be really effective and keeps your audience engaged. Look after your staff, and they will look after you.
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