IOSH statement on King’s Speech

Among a raft of new measures being introduced was the Employment Rights Bill, through which the Government aims to deliver on its New Deal for Working People.

In response, Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, said: “The Government’s move to strengthen workers’ rights is music to my ears, as it will provide hope and reassurance for many millions of people.

“A ban on zero-hours contracts is long overdue. Such contracts make workers increasingly vulnerable in terms of their physical and mental health, as they add a huge degree of uncertainty around the duration of employment and unpredictable working hours.

“Meanwhile, improvements to statutory sick pay will go a long way to preventing people from returning to work too soon, which can also contribute to long-term impacts on their health.

“We are keen to see a greater focus more generally on looking after people at work, making organisations accountable on their human rights obligations, tackling insecure work, advancing flexible working, strengthening safety standards and improving health and wellbeing in the workplace. This is the best recipe for boosting productivity and sustained economic growth.”