A bloodborne virus is an infection that can be transmitted through direct contact with blood and other bodily fluids. The most common examples of bloodborne viruses are hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently updated their guidance on managing the risks associated with blood-borne viruses (BBVs) in the workplace. This revised guidance provides … Read More
New Guidance On The Safe Rigging Of Cranes
The Construction Plant Association’s Crane Interest Group has published new guidance for crane rigging. CPA CIG 2506 introduces a structured and practical approach to pre-lift safety checks for mobile and crawler cranes. This new guidance is designed to enhance, not replace, existing safety processes and is aimed at reducing the risk of rigging errors and improving overall site safety. … Read More
HSE Launch Free Stress eLearning Module
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
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
The Scottish Response to the Grenfell Inquiry: Planned Actions and Reforms
The tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 prompted a wide-ranging public inquiry and a series of recommendations to improve building and fire safety across the UK. The Scottish Government has responded by accepting all recommendations from the Grenfell Inquiry that are relevant to Scotland, demonstrating a strong commitment to learning from the disaster and enhancing safety standards. Key Elements of … Read More
Noise Control in Woodworking: Understanding the Problem
Noise is a significant occupational hazard in the woodworking industry. Workers are frequently exposed to high noise levels, often between 90 and 110 dB(A), which can cause hearing damage and increase the risk of accidents by making it difficult to communicate or hear warning signals. The main sources of noise include the cutting process, dust extraction systems, and other machinery … Read More
HSE Publishes New Domestic Service Guidance
The HSE has published new guidance clarifying who qualifies as a domestic servant and where health and safety law applies in the context of domestic work. The key point to remember is that health and safety law does not apply to domestic servants in a private household. This generally includes roles such as nannies, cooks, and chauffeurs. However, … Read More
Government Response to Grenfell Inquiry Report
Eight years on from the Grenfell Tower Fire tragedy, the UK Government has published its response to the final report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. The Government has accepted all 58 recommendations and outlined a structured three-phase plan to deliver on them. Phase One (2025 to 2026) – The initial phase will focus on the delivery of existing reforms, recommendations, … Read More
Suction and Vacuum Excavator Guidance Updated
What is suction and vacuum excavator equipment? Suction and vacuum excavators are specialised machines used in construction and other industries to safely and efficiently remove soil and debris. These machines use powerful suction technology to excavate materials without causing damage to underground utilities or structures, making them ideal for sensitive excavation tasks. Who has published the updated guidance? The … Read More