A
Bill will be presented today in Parliament to try increase the punishment for
companies committing health and safety crimes.
The
Health and Safety at Work (Offences) Bill proposed by MP Andy Love, wants
magistrates to be able to fine employers guilty of health and safety offences
up to £20,000 (£5,000 is the current maximum).
The
move has the support of the TUC, which believes employers committing major
health and safety crimes are getting away with "no more than a slight slap
on the wrist".
TUC
general secretary Brendan Barber said: "Higher fines would help focus
employer minds on the need for greater safety at work.
Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance
Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday
"Bosses
who employ workers in dangerous situations should have to pay the price for
their carelessness."
