Redcats rolls out an innovative prevention policy

The Prevention Management System (PMS), first set up in 2003 in the shipping department of La Redoute's “La Martinoire” site in northern France which prepares all parcels for dispatch to customers, extended to all divisions since 2005, regarding inventory and returns.

This policy is structured in two phases:

• The first phase involves alerting employees to the risks of work-related accidents, occupational diseases and absenteeism.
• The second stage focuses on encouraging employees to take a more proactive role in accident prevention by helping to identify risks in advance.

Early results show a reduction in absenteeism and an increase in the number of suggestions for improvement put forward by employees: 1,070 in 2006 compared to 1,000 in 2005. 35% of these suggestions, mainly concerning problems with working conditions, were rewarded and implemented.

In addition, a review designed to prevent incapacity and occupational diseases was launched. Workstation ergonomics are in the process of being mapped, whilst career paths that limit future risks by managing adapted mobility are being defined.

To strengthen this approach, a Work Health and Safety Prevention department that reports directly to the La Redoute Director of Operations has been set up. Previously, audit management, fire prevention and work health and safety prevention were entrusted to the same person. Since January 2007, a person is responsible on a full-time basis for Work Health and Safety Prevention.