The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has called for companies undertaking research projects that endorse health and safety measures to come forward.

Some 13 projects have so far benefitted from the IOSH research fund since its inception in 2005 and it has stated its desire to "promote opportunities which could help create a world of work that is safe, healthy and sustainable", by funding further projects.

The IOSH said it intends to concentrate on projects that aim to investigate "healthy and safe work in diverse working populations" such as those occupied by specific ethnic or language groups.

Commenting on the purpose of the funds for this year, Dr Luise Vassie, head of research and technical services at IOSH, said: "We hope this year to get a range of bids for funding from applicants with innovative proposals on how to deliver effective health and safety management for a diverse working population."

Applications must be received by March 27th and the IOSH has said that it will offer grants up to £100,000 for successful entries. It also acknowledged that larger grants may be available depending on the project.

The Health and Safety Executive announced that it was launching the second phase of its Shattered Lives campaign on Monday (February 9th), aimed at highlighting the dangers of slips, trips and falls at work.