Workplace supplies firm Slingsby urges employers to tighten up hygiene...

A new outbreak of a virus believed to be a new strain of the SARS bug which killed more than 60 people around the world in 2003 has prompted a major supplier of workplace hygiene products to urge companies to look closely at their procedures for ensuring that their workers are properly protected.

It was revealed last week that a man was being held in quarantine at a London hospital, after flying into the country from Saudi Arabia, where he is said to have contracted the virus.

With this latest alert in mind, Slingsby, a West Yorkshire-based retailer of a range of products for the workplace, is reminding bosses of their obligations under Health and Safety laws, which include ensuring that sufficient supplies of protective wear and cleaning materials are available to staff at all times.

Dominic Slingsby, Managing Director of Slingsby said: "Most of us will remember the fear caused by the original outbreaks of SARS, which claimed 900 lives around the world.

"And although that was nine years ago, such viruses can mutate and adapt to counter the protective measures medical staff can put in place, so that the threat remains."

“So we are urging businesses to reinforce the importance maintaining regular, rigorous hygiene procedures”.

"These include stocking Slingsby alcohol hand gel, to help completely eradicate germs and bugs, and encouraging workers to use it regularly, and, for staff who come into contact with hazardous substances, wearing a Slingsby disposable face mask, to prevent them inhaling any noxious or potentially disease-carrying fumes."

"Last time SARS was reported in this country, it led to a major health scare," said Dominic.

"Like any infectious disease, the right precautions can prevent its transmission, yet these outbreaks should be an alarm call to everyone that we need to take workplace hygiene very seriously."

"So we'd urge everyone to review their procedures, and stock up on products to help their workforce stay safe and protected."

ENDS

About Slingsby:
Slingsby was established in Bradford in 1893 by Harry Crowther Slingsby who designed and created a range of robust trucks and trolleys to move heavy loads horizontally around large buildings. Several members of the Slingsby family remain on the board of directors and whilst the company is still famous for its manual handling equipment, it now supplies more than 35,000 workplace products to a full range of industries via its catalogues and website.

For further information contact;
Louise Walsh, Marketing Communications Coordinator.
[email protected]
01274 535 030