Stress is a widespread issue in the workplace, which, alongside anxiety and depression, contributes to around half of all cases of work-related ill health. Employees may experience stress for various reasons, such as excessive workloads, limited control over their tasks, insufficient support, difficult workplace relationships, or changes in their role or the organisation. Employers are legally required to protect staff … Read More
New Camping Safety Guide from RoSPA
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has published a camping safety leaflet offering essential tips for staying safe during camping-related activities. The leaflet outlines a list of basic tips to consider before heading out to camp. These include checking the weather forecast, packing the correct supplies, and ensuring the correct emergency procedures are in place. RoSPA also makes … Read More
Updated Guidance on Fire Alarm Zone Plans: Why They Matter
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has released new guidance on Fire Detection and Alarm Zone Plans; this has been updated to align with the latest BS 5839-1:2025 standard. This update brings a renewed focus on the critical role of zone plans in fire safety management. Key Changes in the Guidance The new guidance classifies the absence of a zone … Read More
West Nile Virus Detected in UK Mosquitos
Research undertaken by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has found fragments of the West Nile Virus in mosquitos collected from Retford, Nottinghamshire. This marks the first time that such fragments have been identified in the UK. The risk of West Nile Virus remains low, with only 2 out of 200 mosquito batches spread across the UK testing positive for … Read More
Updated Driver Hours Rules for HGVs and PSVs
Coming into effect from April 21, 2025, the UK government has introduced updates to the driver hours rules for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) under the Drivers’ Hours and Tachographs (Amendment and Modification) Regulations 2025. These changes aim to align UK regulations with international standards, particularly under the UK/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement and the AETR … Read More
Respiratory Health Surveillance Research
Why may an employer need to provide health surveillance? Employers may need to implement respiratory health surveillance to safeguard the health and safety of employees exposed to respiratory hazards in the workplace. This surveillance is essential for: Early detection: Identifying initial signs of respiratory issues caused by exposure to hazardous substances. Prevention: Mitigating the risk of developing serious respiratory conditions. … Read More
Working In Reduced Oxygen Atmospheres
The British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) have published updated guidance for working in reduced oxygen atmospheres. The guidance provides advice and guidance to installers and premise owners where these systems are, or are about to be, fitted for the safety of those who are required to access such spaces. Workplaces where you may encounter reduced levels of oxygen could include … Read More
No Falls Week 2025
What is No Falls Week? No Falls Week is a dedicated campaign aimed at promoting safe work practices at height and preventing falls. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety measures in the work-at-height sector, which is often associated with significant risks. When is No Falls Week? No Falls Week runs from … Read More
MOT Inspection Manuals for HGVs and PSVs
Who has published the guidance? Updated MOT Inspection manuals for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) has been published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). What does the guidance cover? The manuals provide detailed procedures and standards for the examination and maintenance of HGVs and PSVs. They focus on: Ensuring vehicle safety. Compliance with … Read More
New Battery Energy Storage Systems Guidance
Grid-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming increasingly important and more common as more renewable energy is generated. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published new guidance on their website addressing responsibilities across the lifecycle of these systems. The guidance helps stakeholders comply with health and safety laws and mitigate risks effectively. What does the guidance cover? The … Read More