Safety Groups UK (SGUK), the coordinating body for a network of around 73 local voluntary Occupational Health and Safety Groups across the UK, has appointed Alan Murray as its new President. Alan Murray brings with him a wealth of experience in the safety and health industry, having been a prominent leader in the field since the 1980s.
SGUK, a registered charity originally established in 1947, plays a crucial role in promoting awareness and knowledge about work-related health and safety risks. It achieves this by bringing together diverse groups of people to share important messages, experiences, concerns, and solutions. Local Safety Groups, some of which date back to the 1920s and '30s, are a well-established part of the UK's health and safety system. An important part of their work is educating and supporting non-specialists who have health and safety responsibilities as part of their wider roles, including directors and partners of small firms, general managers, HR managers, contractors, and suppliers.
Alan Murray has been the Chief Executive of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) since 2014 and recently completed his second term as President of the European Safety Federation in April 2023. Under his leadership, the BSIF has been dedicated to supporting those who ensure workplace safety and health, advocating for the appreciation of safety and health as a critical force for good in the UK. The BSIF, through initiatives like the Registered Safety Suppliers Scheme, works to ensure quality safety products are available through capable suppliers.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Alan and the BSIF were instrumental in addressing PPE challenges, supporting authorities in sourcing fit-for-purpose PPE, demonstrating his leadership in times of crisis.
Safety Groups UK initiatives
SGUK is committed to reducing the toll of deaths, injuries, and illnesses caused by work activities. Despite the UK's reputation as a world leader in workplace health and safety, significant challenges remain, with £13bn lost annually due to preventable occupational injuries and diseases. Every year, over a million people suffer from work-related illnesses, thousands die from past exposures to hazardous substances, and hundreds are killed or severely injured in the workplace or on the roads.
SGUK’s initiatives include:
• Recognising best practices with awards.
• Promoting Group membership at health and safety exhibitions.
• Supporting Groups in their activities.
• Forming partnerships with other health and safety organisations to promote initiatives.
• Working with sponsors to reach out to small firms and help change behaviour.
SGUK holds up to three open meetings annually, including an annual awards ceremony in January, and organises special seminars and events on key topics.
