New protocol published on work-related deaths
3 Oct 06
Training for specialist prosecutors and onus on information sharing put in place
Improving public safety and making prosecution easier is the aim behind a joint working protocol on work-related deaths published today.
The protocol is the result of work by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS) and the British Transport Police (BTP).
The protocol emphasises the need for a collaborative approach to the investigation of work-related deaths in Scotland, in order to ensure high standards of public safety and to assist in any possible prosecution. It also puts in place training for specialist prosecutors who can take on such cases.
Norman McFadyen, head of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, said:
"This protocol will help to underpin the process of investigation by making clear the responsibilities of each agency involved.
"What this will mean is that the work conducted by investigation teams will now be much more effective in making sure that justice is done, as well as delivering a high quality of service to victims and relatives."
Stewart Campbell, Health and Safety Executive, said: "The protocol provides a Scottish framework for the investigations of deaths arising from work activities. It should ensure that an effective balance is struck between the investigation of possible homicide offences and health and safety offences."
A copy of the protocol can be found on the Health and Safety Executive website http://www.hse.gov.uk/scotland/workreldeaths.pdf .