§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps health authorities are taking to safeguard health staff carrying out their duties. [37042]
§ Mr. MaloneUnder the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992, it is a requirement that employers and staff agree appropriate methods locally for ensuring the safety of their working environment.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what proposals he has(a) to introduce safety guidelines to all health authorities aimed at minimising risks to staff and (b) to introduce a legal obligation on all health service bodies to ensure that such staff in the course of their duties are protected and in the event of sustaining injuries or contracting diseases have legal safeguards against employer negligence. [37043]
§ Mr. MaloneThe national health service executive has issued guidance to NHS employers on health and safety at work issues, EL(93)66 and occupational health service matters HSG(94)51, which underline NHS employers' statutory duties to promote a safe working environment for staff, and on security "The NHS Security Manual", 1995. Copies of these documents are available in the Library. In the event of staff sustaining an injury or contracting a disease at work, they may be eligible for benefits under the NHS injury benefits scheme.