'Name and shame' firms which break new legislation

There have been calls to name and shame companies which violate the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act, from the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

As the new legislation comes into force on April 6th, the IOSH has issued a series of proposals which could affect those in risk jobs within the UK.

Suggestions include the mandatory training of senior members of staff in occupational safety and health, as well as the use of third-party audits in the industry and a re-evaluation of fines, to a possible 2.5 per cent of annual turnover.

President of the IOSH Ray Hurst said: "Poor practices and behaviour patterns may have developed over several years and long-term commitment is required to bring about a reversal in this."

The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act means that companies can be found guilty of corporate manslaughter in some instances, as it clarifies the "criminal liability" of businesses, according to the Health and Safety Executive.