BUSINESS organisations throughout Lancashire are being urged to bid for Government grants of up to £100,000.

The cash, from a grant fund managed by the Health and Safety Commission, is aimed at getting workers in small firms more involved with their employers on health and safety issues.

HSC chairman Bill Callaghan said the money would pay for Workers' Safety Advisers (WSAs) to go into workplaces and help staff and employers identify and manage risks together; recommend control measures; and provide an expert source of health and safety information.

He said: "Increasing worker involvement has been shown to improve health and safety performance and is a key part of HSC's new strategy, but six out of 10 workplaces have no form of employee involvement.

"The WSA Challenge Fund is a great opportunity to deliver the strategy and get resources into the hands of people who need it most - employers and employees in small firms.

"My challenge is for innovative bids that show commitment to working together with partners and to using WSAs as a force for improvement."

Applicants for awards from the Fund - the maximum grant available during the first round (April 2004-March 2005) is £100,000 - must show a commitment to improve health and safety.

Partnerships applying for funding could include workers, trade unions, employers, trade associations, local authorities, voluntary organisations, chambers of commerce, professional bodies and other organisations committed to working together.

Information on the fund and details of how to apply for awards can be found on HSE's website at: www.hse.gov.uk/workers/involvement/wsachallenge.htm

Completed and signed application forms should be sent to: Matthew Holder, Innovative Engagement Unit (BWED5), HSE, Rose Court, 2 Southwark Bridge, London SE1 9HS. to reach him by Friday, May 7.