The Importance of Health and Safety – Continued

What Are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?

For renewable energy companies, non-compliance with health and safety regulations can be particularly problematic. Reputational damage can have long-term effects, impacting not only the ability to attract business opportunities but also recruitment prospects and how the company is perceived as an employer.

Financial penalties resulting from legal action can be severe—six-figure fines are not uncommon. Additionally, the loss of revenue caused by a poor health and safety record can be difficult for renewable energy businesses to absorb.

When accidents occur that could have been prevented through better health and safety management systems and controls, companies may also face legal claims from affected individuals.

Specific Challenges in the Renewable Energy Industry

According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), 11 million people were employed in the renewable energy sector in 2018, across various roles. Some positions within the industry can be physically demanding, such as wind turbine engineers, who often need to climb turbine towers 70 to 80 meters high. Others work on construction sites, handling hazardous materials. As a result, the renewable energy sector faces unique health and safety challenges from the outset.

A company can address these challenges by implementing a robust safety management system, providing adequate training, proper equipment, and safety provisions, conducting annual audits and inspections, and actively engaging with employees to foster a strong safety culture.

By Adam Richardson – Health & Safety Manager