Environmental, health & safety awareness and management within small to medium enterprises in the retail sector

Abstract

The purpose o f this study is to determine a link between environmental, health and safety awareness and management within small to medium sized retail outlets. The retail sector was chosen specifically due to the potential influence it has over manufacturers and consumers alike. The study assesses the approaches taken by national and international bodies to encourage the uptake o f environmental, health and safety management. The survey focused on the levels o f environmental, health and safety management within the retail sector in Mullingar. The results o f the study showed a low level o f awareness with regard to the environmental issues o f water consumption and quality, energy consumption and the environmental impacts associated with purchasing. However, high levels o f awareness o f waste management were present. One possible reason for this is the “Race against Waste” mentoring programme. The study has identified the need for further collaboration between business, regulatory and advisory groups, in providing sustainable sector specific mentoring programmes.