EMPLOYERS were today urged to make sure their workplace is as safe as possible in the New Year.

Health and Safety chiefs have launched a campaign to highlight the dangers of vehicles at work, after several serious accidents happened at factories and roadworks in Lancashire over the past year.

"Every year there are more than 70 people killed in workplace accidents nationally involving cars, vans, lift trucks, dumper trucks and tractors," said Peter Robinson, Health & Safety Executive director for Lancashire.

"That is the equivalent of a Piper Alpha disaster every two years. The figure is too high."

Mr Robinson said that 80 per cent of such accidents could be prevented by better risk management.

"Safe organisation of the workplace includes such things as separation of pedestrians and vehicles, adequate lighting and signs and good road surfacing.

"Vehicles must be properly maintained with warning lights and horns working effectively. Good visibility is vital."

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