As the government’s flagship flexible working in schools programme nears its conclusion, we investigate whether it’s a practical solution to schools’ retention and stress crisis.
By Belinda Liversedge on 31 March 2026
Vehicle paint sprayers face an elevated risk of developing debilitating occupational asthma from exposure to isocyanates found in certain ‘2-pack’ paints, coatings and lacquers, so HSE is encouraging motor vehicle repair businesses to prevent or minimise exposure through a mix of education, advice and enforcement.
By Kate Jones, HSE on 01 April 2026
Portable gas detectors are a vital safety tool for tasks like water treatment and refrigerated food processing, but it’s essential they form part of a wider system for controlling the risks posed by gases, including staff training, detector maintenance and a through understanding of the relevant legal duties.
By Megan Hine, Draeger Safety UK on 02 April 2026
With concerns rising that workers who manufacture and install artificial stone kitchen worktops are at high risk of early-onset fatal lung disease, it is vital employers take steps to prevent and control exposure to respirable crystalline silica found in engineered stone materials.
By Tim Turney, Casella on 23 September 2025
Despite the 1999 ban on the importation and use of asbestos in the UK, the substance remains present in major quantities in a huge variety and number of buildings, meaning careful management is vital to reduce the potentially devastating exposure risks.
By Chris Ivey, UKATA on 04 September 2025
Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is a vital tool for protecting workers from hazardous substances that pose an immediate risk to life and the risk of serious and fatal diseases at a later stage. However, RPE will only provide an effective level of protection if it is carefully selected to match the respiratory hazard, type of work and the physical attributes of the wearers.
By Ian Kelsall, Draeger Safety UK on 09 September 2025
This July, HSE prosecuted two cases in which two workers were killed by reversing HGVs. They shared striking similarities.
By Belinda Liversedge on 01 September 2025
There are growing calls for mandatory UKAS accreditation for organisations that offer asbestos surveying services, but there are strong arguments both in favour and against the move.
By Colette Willoughby, Asbestos Compliance Limited on 04 September 2025
If tight-fitting respiratory facepieces are required to protect against inhalation of hazardous substances, wearers must undergo a fit test by a competent person. However, it’s essential employers understand the benefits and shortcomings of the available test methods.
By Paul Salisbury, Fire Safe International Ltd on 04 September 2025
The key ISO management standards setting out best practice frameworks for effectively managing occupational health and safety, environmental and quality risks and opportunities are undergoing major revision, so it’s essential businesses start planning now to meet the new requirements in order to maintain their certifications under the relevant standards.
By Dr Keith Whitehead, British Safety Council on 08 August 2025
Mobile and fixed gas detectors have long been a crucial tool for alerting workers to the presence of asphyxiating or explosive gases, but developments in smart and connected technology are making it much easier to monitor entire networks of detectors and respond immediately to alarms and emergencies that could pose a risk to life or site safety.
By Becca Dodds, Draeger Safety UK on 26 August 2025
Those responsible for business premises should provide assistive equipment to ensure the safe and efficient evacuation of people with mobility impairments. However, it is crucial that this equipment is regularly maintained and that staff are thoroughly trained in its use – otherwise, confusion and potentially fatal delays can arise in an emergency.
By Evac+Chair on 07 August 2025
Safety footwear can prevent slip, trip and fall injuries, but it’s essential to consider other factors that could positively or negatively affect wearer comfort, such as breathable materials, waterproof qualities and boot weight.
By Simon Ash, HAIX on 06 August 2025
