Posted By Phil H

Reading some recent threads I see that the 'no win no fee' lawyers seem to have a fair share of critics. However,I would argue that without them many employers would be less likely to 'embrace' H+S. After all how many of you know of any HSE/EHO inspections that have resulted in action for lack of consultation, stress,excessive temperatures,DSE and other less 'risky' activities.I am sure there are cases but you don't read about them much in the prosecution sections of the trade press.The adverts are all over the TV stations highlighting the dangers of poor working practices, but they are courtesy of the legal eagles and not your local EHO. The only problem is..there has to be an accident/illness for them to be any use.And another thing..isn't it time health and safety changed it's name..new brand,new image and all that!

Posted By A Campbell
The ethos of health & safety hasn't changed....

So what would a re branding exercise provide?.. more cost for a new name to combat the same things?

I agree that the system has allowed successful claims by individuals and am all for compensating those sick and injured through no fault of their own.
Alas... I do have a little grudge with regards to people being compensated for their own misgivings (some may say stupidity?) and attributes and the insurance industry shying away from a fight.. and the judges for erring on the claimant's side too easily for a quick outcome!

Posted By John Richards
http://www.dailymail.co....25-000-compensation.html

http://www.independent.c...on-by-judges-619910.html

There are very many cases where compensation is not awarded, but you only read of a few. Insurance companies are not in the habit of giving money away on the basis of "it'll cost us less in the long run".
They do however assess the likelihood of win V lose, and paying out rather than losing the case and [possibly] setting a precedent may seem the better option. Some clients though chose to fight a case, even though they may lose, to try to get the other side to back-out. Just a game really. Winner takes nothing, loser takes the same. All sides lose except the legal representatives of both sides.

Posted By ITK
As a former regulator I would say without question the main driver for health and safety standards in most businesses were the fear of claims not the fear of regulation.

ITK