A new framework has been launched to further raise standards of physical and mental health for the chemicals and major hazards industries.
The Principles of Workplace Health and Wellbeing Leadership were developed by the Chemical Business Association (CBA), alongside industry, government and trade union partners.
The guidelines were officially launched in June at the House of Lords (UKHL).
Representatives from the CBA and member companies attended the event, together with representatives from the HKHL, ministers and MPs, regulators and industry leaders, to mark the launch and reaffirm the sector’s shared commitment to improving workplace health and wellbeing.
Developed by the Onshore Chemicals and Major Hazards Working Group in response to the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) Prevention Programme, the Principles establish clear expectations for senior leadership in promoting workplace health and wellbeing within the chemicals and major hazards industries.
The Working Group brought together the HSE, trade associations, employers and trade unions, including the Chemical Business Association (CBA), Chemical Industries Association (CIA), GMB Union, Grain LNG, National Gas, Tank Storage Association, Unite the Union, and Yorkshire Water, demonstrating a collaborative commitment to raising standards and preventing work-related ill health across the sector.
As one of the organisations involved in developing and signing the Principles, the CBA has helped ensure the framework reflects the practical realities facing businesses across the chemical supply chain, while encouraging collaboration, continuous improvement, and the sharing of best practice.
Elaine McGavin, Operations Director at the CBA, said: “For many businesses, the challenge is not the inability to recognise the importance of workplace health, but knowing how to demonstrate leadership, engage the workforce and drive continuous improvement.
“These Principles provide a clear and practical approach for doing exactly that, and the CBA looks forward to supporting our members as they put them into practice.”
Tim Doggett, CBA Chief Executive, added: “Healthy, engaged people are fundamental to a safe, resilient and successful chemical supply chain.
“These Principles reinforce the importance of leadership in creating workplace cultures where health and wellbeing are valued alongside safety, and we are pleased to have helped shape their development.
“This is another example of what can be achieved when industry, regulators and trade unions work together towards a common goal. By embedding these Principles across the sector and beyond, we have an opportunity to improve outcomes for businesses and, most importantly, for the people who keep our industry moving.”
Peter Davidson, CEO of the Tank Storage Association, said: “The Tank Storage Association has played an active role in the Working Group since its inception. These principles reflect our firm commitment to workforce wellbeing and cross-industry collaboration. I am proud to support this important initiative on behalf of the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector.
Stephen Elliott, Chief Executive of the Chemical Industries Association, added: “The future of our industry is built on people – their energy, creativity, and resilience.
“These Workplace Health & Wellbeing Principles are a call to action in shaping workplaces where every individual can flourish. By embracing wellbeing as a shared commitment, we unlock potential, spark innovation, and create a culture that inspires pride and purpose.
“Together, we can lead the way in setting a new standard – one where thriving people drive thriving businesses,”
The Principles of Workplace Health and Wellbeing Leadership build on the successful Process Safety Leadership Principles developed by industry following the Buncefield tragedy in 2005.
By placing greater emphasis on board-level accountability, workforce engagement, early intervention, and continuous improvement, they provide organisations with a practical foundation to help prevent work-related ill health and create healthier, more resilient workplaces.
The initiative also supports the Government’s wider ambition to reduce work-related ill health, improve workforce participation and create healthier, more productive workplaces, while reinforcing the chemical sector’s commitment to putting people at the heart of its operations.
