In March the Government announced a “new approach to ensure regulators and regulation support growth”, intending to review the regulatory system to ensure it supports growth, is targeted and proportionate, transparent and predictable and adapts to keep pace with innovation. Actions have been given to various regulatory bodies, including the HSE, who are due to consult on potential changes to … Read More

The importance of providing suitable PPE Employers are required to provide employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) where risk assessment has identified that it is necessary to protect the person against risks to their health and safety. PPE should be provided as a “last resort” where the risk cannot be adequately controlled by other measures such as physically removing the … Read More

With floods, fires, IT failures, power outages, and global pandemics, any organisation can experience a serious incident which prevents it from continuing normal operations. Whatever the size of your organisation, the ability to respond quickly and decisively can make the difference between success and failure in returning to ‘business as usual’. Benefits of continuity planning Research has also shown that … Read More

Loud noises can cause sensitive cells in the inner ear to become overloaded, leading to temporary hearing loss. Prolonged or repeated exposure can cause permanent damage, leading to conditions such as irreversible hearing loss or tinnitus (a permanent sensation of ringing, whistling, buzzing or humming in the ears).   Employers have a duty to protect workers from the effects of … Read More

Some fire extinguishers work by creating a blanket of foam over burning material, which smothers the flames and cools the material. Historically a group of chemicals known as Per‑ and PolyfluoroAlkyl Substances (PFAS) have been used in these foams, as they have been found to have good oil/water repellence and heat resistance. The term ‘PFAS’ covers a large number of … Read More

The government has published the Employment Rights Bill Implementation Roadmap, outlining when new measures will come into effect. This comprehensive plan aims to raise living standards across the UK, with around 15 million workers expected to benefit from new rights starting later this year. Highlights of the Roadmap include: Measures that will take effect after the bill is passed: The Strikes … Read More

With the sun making a brief appearance over the past few days, the familiar health and safety advisories have returned, highlighting the risks of prolonged sun exposure, including skin cancer and heat-related illnesses. Heat-related risks to workers Whether indoors or outdoors, working in excessive heat can cause a number of medical issues, including: Heat rash – a skin irritation caused … Read More