ZAP campaign sees big reductio in accidents

Since the ECA launched its Zero Accident Potential (ZAP) campaign in 2001, there has been a reduction of 26% in the number of reportable accidents up to the end of 2004, and major injuries have fallen by 61%. These figures compare with ZAP reduction targets of 30% (reportable accidents) and 40% (major injuries) by the end of 2005.

The results were announced at the ECA’s annual ZAP conference, where delegates heard that of reportable accidents for 2004, 16% were falls from height; 21% slips and trips; 27% resulted from incorrect manual handling; and only 2·5% were due to electrical shock. Significantly, there were no fatalities reported for 2004.

Paul Reeve, health and safety advisor to the ECA, said: “There has been a major improvement in health and safety awareness and good practice in the industry. Our statistics indicate that ECA operatives have half the accidents of electrical operatives overall. We are now discussing health and safety initiatives and targets to 2010.”

Alex Meikle, head of employee relations at the ECA, echoed Reeve’s comments, saying: “The figures show a continual improvement. We are pleased that there were no reported fatalities within ECA firms during 2004, in addition to a reduction of over 60% in major accidents since ZAP started in 2001.”

For further information on the ZAP initiative contact Paul Reeve on 020 7313 4800.