Accidents in pubs down over last year

That’s according to statistics from 1,400 pubs by health and safety consultancy Perry Scott Nash. It found that during the final quarter of 2011, the total number of reported accidents for like-for-like premises fell by nearly 5%, compared to the same period in 2010.

In December last year, a very busy time of year for licensees, the number of reported accidents fell by around 5% too.

Executive chairman at Perry Scott Nash, Pat Perry said: “Improved health and safety procedures are to thank for a drop in accidents within pubs over the past year.

“We have also recorded a noticeable downturn in causes of harm relating to customer behaviour/fights/physical assault, down 5.9% in quarter four of 2011. This will surprise many, as typically it’s considered that the festive period is a time of alcohol-related trouble.

“Accidents caused by slips and trips were also down some 14%. However, we also recorded a rise in accidents involving equipment, so there’s no room for complacency.

“The overall trend has to be seen as good news for a trade so often under fire.”