As the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 turns 50 on 31 July, the world of work, both now and in the future, looks markedly different to when this ground-breaking piece of legislation was enacted. Yet, the Act has stood the test of time and its principles remain as relevant now as they did in the summer of ’74 – unlike some of the haircuts from that time.
By Kerry Reals on 27 June 2024
Lithium-ion batteries used to power equipment such as e-bikes and electric vehicles are increasingly linked to serious fires in workplaces and residential buildings, so it’s essential those in charge of such environments assess and control the risks.
By Matt Humby, Firechief® Global on 28 June 2024
Those responsible for workplaces, public buildings and multi-occupied residential premises have a variety of duties aimed at protecting the occupants from fire, and good communication with those at risk is crucial to ensuring the dangers are properly managed.
By Phil Jones, William Martin on 27 June 2024
The move to renewable and low carbon energy sources like hydrogen will clearly present new safety risks, but developments in technology like gas detection monitoring will help to keep workers and the public safe.
By David Head, Draeger Safety UK on 01 June 2023
Early research suggests that hybrid working may generally have a more positive than negative impact on worker wellbeing, but employers must nevertheless watch out for problems like feelings of loneliness and isolation among hybrid workers.
By Bex Moorhouse, Invigorate Spaces Ltd on 04 May 2023
Understanding the underlying reasons why workers are failing to follow safety rules is crucial for developing the right ‘nudges’ and processes to encourage staff to always act in a safe fashion.
By Sarah Prince, lead consultant, Tribe Culture Change on 01 May 2023
Utility workers out in the field maintaining our electrical and gas supply networks can be at risk of accidents and aggression from the public, making it vital to have the right technology for raising the alarm and identifying their location.
By Rebecca Pick, Founder and CEO, Pick Protection on 01 May 2023
Employees who feel engaged with their jobs, colleagues and the values of their organisation tend to report more positive wellbeing, making it essential to focus on approaches like ensuring good relationships between managers and staff.
By Jane Sparrow, The Culture Builders on 01 May 2023
“You can see they want that thread of hope. You’re somebody who’s going to believe in them and they come away with the faith that you’re going to actually do what it says [on the tin].”
By Belinda Liversedge on 09 April 2023
Poor indoor air quality can have a negative impact on productivity and may even affect our future health, so it’s vital employers consider ways of reducing our exposure to airborne hazards like chemicals.
By Dr Julie Riggs, British Safety Council on 06 April 2023
The problem of substandard safety products regularly made headlines during the Covid pandemic as poor quality and unusable products flooded the market, but the issue of substandard PPE and safety products existed long before Covid and remains a significant concern today.
By Alan Murray, CEO, BSIF on 01 April 2023
The risk of workers suffering hearing damage from harmful levels of noise at work could be slashed by as much as 90 per cent by adopting the latest noise control best practice techniques.
By Peter Wilson, Industrial Noise and Vibration Centre (INVC) on 15 March 2023
National No Smoking Day on 8 March is a great opportunity to help staff to quit smoking or vaping, but it’s essential to adopt the right tone and approach.
By John Dicey, Allen Carr’s Easyway on 07 March 2023
