Access Key	Description
1	Home Page

News and events

News release

9 November 2010 - NR 50/10

Businesses must review supply chain policies – urges health and safety body

Businesses were today urged to review their supply chain policies after a television documentary uncovered alleged ‘sweat shop’ conditions in a clothes factory in Leicester.

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) made the call after Channel 4’s Dispatches programme secretly filmed footage of a factory where garments destined for BHS, New Look, Peacocks, C&A and Jane Norman were manufactured.

Allegations made in the documentary included cramped, dangerous working conditions.

Retailers featured in Fashion’s Dirty Secret said alleged practices unearthed by the covert reporter contravened their policies on working conditions, and a number said investigations had been launched.

But Leicestershire-based IOSH believes the programme highlights wider issues for large companies and its consideration of health and safety in the employment of suppliers.

Richard Jones, IOSH Policy and Technical Director, said: “The working conditions alleged by Channel 4’s ‘Dispatches’ programme last night graphically emphasise the need for better health and safety standards and enforcement.

“We find it deplorable that in 21st century Britain, some workers are not afforded even the most basic protection of their health, safety and welfare.”

Mr Jones said it was “shocking” that John Hilary, from ‘War on Want’, would compare working conditions in the clothing factory with the ‘sweat shops’ in less developed parts of the world.

“We have long-established regulations in Britain that should prevent these sorts of dangerous workplaces,” he said.

“We urge all organisations to review their supply chain policies and more importantly what happens in practice. In the cases highlighted, it appears policies in place were flouted by the contracting and subcontracting companies.

“This has also highlighted that small business does not necessarily equate to a safe or low-risk business. The documentary claimed workers shown were exposed to significant risk from machinery and fire hazards.

“The fire risks appeared so serious that they were effectively working in a ‘death trap’. It’s disturbing if these standards are being allowed to pass under the radar of enforcement inspections.

“Despite limited resources and impending cutbacks, we urge Health and Safety Executive and local authority inspectors to find ways to address this.”

- Ends -

Notes for editors:

IOSH is the Chartered body for health and safety professionals. With more than 40,000 members in 85 countries, we’re the world’s biggest professional health and safety organisation.

We set standards, and support, develop and connect our members with resources, guidance, events and training. We’re the voice of the profession, and campaign on issues that affect millions of working people.

IOSH was founded in 1945 and is a registered charity with international NGO status.