Know the threat

Royal Mail knows that dogs are not inherently dangerous. But, even the most placid animal can be prone to attack if it feels it or its territory is being threatened.

In the last year, 2,445 dog attacks have taken place on postmen and women across the UK. Although the total number of attacks dipped slightly by 2 per cent year-on-year, around 47 attacks take place each week across the UK, with some leading to a permanent and disabling injury.

There has been some progress. Some areas trialling a virtual reality training package have seen a marked improvement in attack figures. The technology allows us to place colleagues completely within a scenario, engaging them in tasks that require them to assess relevant cues that a dog may be present, or performing all the correct steps during their delivery to ensure their safety. To find out more about the availability of this training speak to your Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) business partner.

Shaun Davis, director of safety, health, wellbeing & sustainability, said: ‘The safety of our people is of paramount importance and never more so than now as we continue to support the communities we live and work in. 

‘Although small, I am pleased to see the decrease this year, however, it is still an alarmingly high number – 47 dog attacks per week, seven per day over a six-day working week, continues to be a figure we must focus on reducing, and we ask our customers to help us with this as they have done to date.’

Please visit www.royalmail.com/dogawareness for hints and tips on dog safety.