Pressure group accuses HSE of failures

The Centre for Corporate Accountability claims the Health & Safety Executive is failing to investigate 90% of the major injuries involving corporate bodies even though these have been reported.

The CCA, bringing together solicitors, academics and activists with a specific interest in corporate accountability, also criticises the HSE for being lax in its approach to prosecutions.

The group says there are considerable differences in HSE practice from region to region and between industries.

"In London," the CCA's David Bergman reports, "it is half as likely for a worker to have his injury investigated than in Yorkshire."

He adds: "Without an investigation, it is impossible to know whether or not a company or company directors acted with negligence or recklessness. Of course, the implications of this policy are quite dramatic. It means that companies are escaping any form of scrutiny and possible prosecution."

A spokesperson for the HSE declined to comment but noted that it will be giving evidence - as will the CCA - to a Commons select committee later this month.

Elliott Chase