New accident statistics from the Electrical Contractors’ Association’s Zero Accident Potential initiative highlight the industry’s improving health and safety record.

In the five years since its launch in 2001, ZAP has resulted in a 33% reduction in the number of RIDDOR-reportable accidents up to January 2007. Major accidents show a reduction of 59%. The latest 2006 return shows there were no fatalities among ECA member companies.

Paul Reeve, health, safety and environment manager at the ECA comments: “The ECA’s ZAP initiative continues to be a resounding success. The 2006 figures show five consecutive years of improved safety performance by ECA members. The reduction in major injuries is particularly impressive – we have halved serious injuries and this is a real credit to the efforts of member companies and their employees.”

Ambitious targets have been set for phase two of ZAP, leading up to 2010. The new targets will aim for a total reduction of 75% in major injuries compared to 2001 and there will be safety management and occupational health indicators.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor