NEBOSH: Element 1: Justifying safety controls with Moral, Legal and Financial Arguments

1. What is an argument?
2. Moral Arguments
3. Financial Arguments
4. 3. Legal Arguments

1. What is an argument?

An argument is a set of statements or claims presented to support a particular point of view or proposition.

Arguments can be used to persuade, inform, or engage in a logical discussion with others.

2. Moral Argument:

• You should emphasise the ethical responsibility to protect the well-being of employees and the public.
• You can also highlight the importance of valuing human life and promoting a culture of care and respect.
• You could also stress the duty to provide a safe and healthy work environment as a fundamental moral obligation.

3. Financial Argument:

• You would focus on the multitude of financial benefits of investing in health and safety measures.
• You can explain how reducing accidents and illnesses can lead to cost savings through decreased insurance premiums, lower compensation claims, and improved productivity.
• You could highlight the potential for long-term financial stability and growth by minimising uninsured costs and reputation damage.

4. Legal Argument:

• You could highlight the legal obligations under The Health and Safety at Work etc act 1974 and responsibilities imposed by other UK regulations.
• You could discuss the uninsured costs of Employers’ Liability Insurance and Public liability insurance.
• You could highlight the potential legal consequences, including fines, penalties, and liability for negligence, for non-compliance with health and safety standards.

These arguments provide a comprehensive framework for justifying health and safety improvements, considering both the moral imperative to protect people, the financial advantages of risk reduction, and the legal obligations that must be met in the UK.