This week (15-21 May) marks the UK Airports Health and Safety Week. Over the next five days the Airport Operators Association (AOA) in partnership with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and sponsored by airport supplier, Leidos, will highlight various activities aimed at promoting safety improvement and development.
Airports, alongside airlines, ground handlers, fire and rescue teams and other airport partners will be involved in a series of events to raise awareness around airfield, passenger and staff safety, physical and mental wellbeing, new technologies available to airports and community engagement. Events will range from runway safety tours and school visits to nutrition and exercise sessions and dog therapy classes.
Karen Dee, AOA’s Chief Executive, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity and initiative for airports to showcase the work they do every day to improve health and safety across their operations. From making the passenger experience more comfortable and hassle-free; and keeping airfields safe and secure; to ensuring their workforces are supported and protected and working closely with local communities, airports of all sizes lead the way in health and safety.”
Aviation Minister, Baroness Vere, added her support for the week saying: “The health and safety of passengers, staff and local communities is of paramount importance to airports, and it is good to see such positive, forward-thinking approaches being championed.”
Meanwhile, Rob Bisthon, Joint-interim Chief Executive at the UK CAA said: “Airports have a positive impact on the economic and social life of the country , and keeping them safe is vitally important to keeping us all moving. It is brilliant to see so many airports taking part in promoting this work.”
