The local NHS is urging workers across the Vale of York to stay safe at work as a World Day for Safety and Health takes place today.

Promoting the prevention of workplace injuries, World Day for Safety and Health warns about the tough penalties that are handed out to employers who breach serious health and safety rules but reminds workers that they too have a big responsibility for their own health and safety at work.

Lucy Botting, Chief Nurse of NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) that is responsible for commissioning the vast majority of the healthcare services in the area, said: “We all have a role to play in making a safe and healthy workplace. Take steps to stay healthy at work and if you are asked to do a task that you think is unsafe – you have the right to say no. Taking a risk once is once too often.

“All types of jobs – even desk jobs – can lead to injuries. If work isn’t done safely, it can put a lot of wear and tear on your body.”

Here are a few tips to help you prevent injuries and stay healthy at work:

1. Take short breaks. Even a 5-minute break can help increase your concentration and reduce stress. Take short breaks often to stretch or go for a walk.

2. Get enough sleep. Getting a good night’s sleep every night is important for performing well at work. When you are well rested, you are more likely to make good decisions and avoid getting hurt.

3. Stay healthy. A healthy body helps protect you from injuries on the job. Eat a balanced diet, watch your weight and get active to stay in shape.

Lucy Botting added: “It is also important that workers learn what to do and where to get help in an emergency should an accident occur.

“If you or a colleague requires medical attention, don’t automatically assume A&E is the right place. Many conditions can be treated by a pharmacist, GP, or simply by resting at home and there are a number of local health services focused on delivering care to people with different illnesses and injuries.

“Unnecessary trips to A&E place high demand on the service. It can mean people who need immediate, life-saving care have to wait so it’s important that you think carefully about the situation first and only go A&E if it is absolutely necessary.

“By planning ahead and understanding what your options are in an emergency, you will be treated more quickly and help other services treat the people who really need them.”

For more information about what services are available in the local area please click here.

For more information on what you and your employer should be doing to protect your health and safety or to raise a concern about your workplace:

For York, please contact health.safety@york.gov.uk.

For East Riding, please contact health.safety@eastriding.gov.uk.

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