The brainchild of the Berkshire Health and Safety Liaison Group, www.wokingham.gov.uk/berkshirehealthandsafety went live last month.

It is hoped the website will ensure consistency in the enforcement of laws protecting the welfare of

business bosses and their employees countywide.

It gives information on a wide range of topics, from accident reporting to warehouse safety and outlines the powers of the local authority's health and safety inspectors. The site also provides links to other sources of health and safety information.

Steve Richardson, Wokingham District Council's commercial

environmental health manager, said: "We want to communicate to

businesses in the district and beyond how crucially important it is that they follow the laws which have been put in place to ensure the welfare of their employees and what the serious consequences will be if they choose not to do this.

"My team are happy to help and advise employers or staff on how they can make their workplace a safer environment.

"We would prefer to be able to give positive support and guidance, than to be involved in the aftermath of an accident that could easily have been avoided."

The council's environmental health team has also put up a display at the Shute End council offices.

Anyone with health and safety

questions can contact the team by calling (0118) 974 6402 or by

e-mailing environmental.health@

wokingham.gov.uk