More than 25% of business leaders are under pressure to cut spending on health and safety this year, according to research by The Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The recession has led to pressure on firms of all sizes to cut expenditure, but the survey also revealed the importance of health and safety to businesses. Almost 90% of business leaders stated that people are their firm's most important asset and 65% of employees revealed that good health and safety practices make them feel valued.

"We are calling on employers and business owners to take the lead themselves in preventing the thousands of deaths every year which are caused by work - it is their moral and legal duty and it is good for the business," said Judith Hackitt, Chair of HSE.