HSE calls for red tape comment

The Government and the Health and Safety Executive are calling for those in industry to give their thoughts on red tape.

The Red Tape Challenge is seeking views about regulations from the public, business and others like industry bodies and volunteers. The contributions to The Red Tape Challenge will draw on the experience and ideas of those businesses and members of the public who deal with regulation every day.

Health and Safety regulation is one of six cross-cutting themes on The Red Tape Challenge website and the public will be able to give comments on health and safety throughout the whole of the Red Tape Challenge campaign. But, from 30 June 2011 there will be a special three-week focus on health and safety regulation to encourage people to get involved and have their say.

Comments received will provide the Government with a clear picture of how regulations are perceived and will help them decide which regulations should stay, which change, and which go entirely.

Geoffrey Podger, HSE's Chief Executive, said: “The Red Tape Challenge is an ideal opportunity for people to give their views on health and safety regulation and we hope people get involved in the debate.

“The Health and Safety Executive is committed to protecting people from genuine risk and ensuring businesses don't face unnecessary bureaucracy.

“This is a genuine consultation which will capture the views of people who are affected by health and safety regulations. We want to hear from all those with an interest with the aim of simplifying health and safety and making it more effective and proportionate for the benefit of business and the workforce of Britain.”