One of the UK’s top health and safety consultancies is urging companies to back an international day of action designed to keep workers safe.

Acorn Safety Services launched two years ago and from its bases in Northampton, Birmingham and London it has already helped nearly 200 clients, including hospitals, foreign embassies, builders, care homes, schools and manufacturers, to overcome their health and safety problems.

Today, its multi award-winning team of experts is calling on companies across the UK to take part in World Day for Safety and Health at Work which this year focuses on the theme of acting together to build a positive safety and health culture.

Acorn health and safety manager John Crockett, who is celebrating 50 years of working in the industry this year, said: “The vast majority of us take it for granted that when we go to work we’ll return home safely at the end of the day.

“The awful truth is nearly 150 people died in the UK last year following a workplace accident. Time and time again people are losing their lives in situations that could have been avoided if health and safety procedures had been implemented and followed.

“The Health and Safety Executive has also revealed that more than 1.7 million workers here suffered from work-related ill health during the past year.

“The consequences for all these individuals and their loved ones are heartbreaking and companies in breach of health and safety rules can face crippling fines as well as catastrophic damage to their reputation.”

To help keep workers safe in the UK, Acorn Safety Services is urging companies to make a commitment to addressing their health and safety requirements today on World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

John added: “It’s so important that companies across all industries put health and safety at the heart of their operations and instil that knowledge in their staff.

“Health and safety should be everyone’s responsibility. It’s important that companies have clear policies and procedures in place but it’s equally as important that workers at all levels are aware of health and safety and also take responsibility when it comes to highlighting any issues.”

Organisations in need of help can contact Acorn to arrange a free health and safety review with John during which he will discuss and diagnose any current health and safety issues they may have.

For further information visit www.acornhealthandsafety.co.uk or call 01604 930380 or 0121 369 1105.