Chris to lead growing health and safety arm of Napthens

Napthens Health and Safety, the health and safety arm of regional law firm Napthens, has appointed Chris Walker to lead the continued growth of the service.

Following the acquisition of ATG Health and Safety Ltd by Napthens LLP last May, the service has expanded its diverse package of support for employers across the region and has now rebranded as Napthens Health and Safety.

Working closely with the law firm’s commercial teams, including employment and HR, Chris Walker will lead a specialist team providing a full health and safety service including audits, site visits, training and consultation.

Chris said: “The importance of health and safety of employees has never been more important than it is right now. From staff who are working from home, to workplaces that need to implement new safety measures to beat the virus, our team is experienced in making the workplace a safe environment for all concerned.

“We have experienced growing demand over the past year, and with our innovative approach continue to develop a flexible and agile service as we transition out of the current crisis so we can respond and support our clients whatever their specific needs.”

Currently supporting more than 150 organisations across the north, the Napthens Health and Safety team offers a flexible service which can be retained or used ad hoc depending on an employer’s needs.   

As businesses begin a return to the workplace after lockdown, Napthens Health and Safety is offering a COVID-19 support package for employers.  The service includes risk assessment and virtual site visits to support businesses as they manage the process of a safe return to work for employees. 

Chris Boyle, partner and Head of Employment and HR at Napthens, added: “Napthens Health and Safety is transforming the way health and safety support is provided for employers.  Our employment lawyers have also been working closely with the team to provide an all-round advisory service.  By working closely with businesses we can help them navigate the employment, HR and health and safety challenges arising from COVID-19 as we exit the lockdown together.”

As part of the changes, former director of ATG Health and Safety Karen Lea will retire later in the year. For more information, visit the Napthens website.