Effective supply chain management can have a positive knock-on effect on health and safety management in the workplace, according to the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).
A Cardiff University-commissioned study that focused on two case studies within the construction sector has concluded that firms are influenced by the demands of their clients to ensure good health and safety practice among their own contractors and subcontractors.
Conversely, in supply chains where high standards from the top are not dictated throughout, there can be a risk that businesses cut corners on health and safety.
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IOSH executive director of policy Dr Luise Vassie said: “In higher-profile construction projects, health and safety takes higher priority.
“But in lower-profile companies and projects, we’re worried about the health of employees lower down the chain.”
