The union hopes the ProSkills review will lead to a greater understanding of health and safety standards and legislation and the variety of training schemes on offer, particularly among SMEs.

Amicus health and safety advisor Bud Hudspith said: "Employers have a clear duty to create a safe place of work, and training their employees in all aspects of health and safety is an important part of that.”

It is hoped the initiative will result in the development of core entry-level qualifications and courses, which ultimately could also be introduced into schools as well as businesses.

“The outcome of this initiative should be a clearer picture for employers of what they need to do, and better training for workers," said Hudspith.

James Barrett, head of the manufacturing sector of the Health and Safety Executive, said: "Health and safety is a key issue for the industries that Proskills represents and they have adopted a number of innovative approaches.