Safety Management Magazine opinions

    Sasjkia Otto

    The UK has a generational opportunity to improve workforce health – it’s time to act

    The announcement that a group of ‘Vanguard’ employers will work with the Government to identify the most effective ways businesses, the health service and employees can work together to support people experiencing ill health to remain in and return to work provides a great opportunity to pilot a new National Occupational Health Service offering universal access to high-quality occupational health support for all workers and employers.

    By Sasjkia Otto, the Fabian Society on 09 March 2026

    ESG Laggard Leader MED Istock Credit Olivier Le Moal

    The changing face of risk: why ESG matters in 2026

    Although non-compliance with environmental, safety and social responsibility laws and duties can prove extremely costly in terms of fines and reputational damage, businesses that prioritise excellent environmental, social and governance standards can reap a variety of financial and related benefits.

    By Emma Tattersdill and Emma Evans Bexley Beaumont law firm on 05 March 2026

    Portrait 3

    Don’t lose autism in the neurodiversity wave – why targeted reform is essential

    Autistic adults have waited too long for meaningful reform. They have shared their experiences and expertise. Now they deserve action, accountability, and transformation.

    By Rt Hon Sir Robert Buckland KBE KC on 15 January 2026

    Kevinbampton 92

    Is workplace health safe in 2026?

    UK Government efforts to boost the economy and employment levels through approaches such as deregulation pose a serious threat to the country’s workplace safety standards and the health of our workforce.

    By Kevin Bampton, BOHS on 10 February 2026

    Charlotte Maxwell Davies

    How stress and burnout will shape the workplace in 2026

    Burnout is rapidly becoming one of the nation’s most significant workplace challenges. It is emerging as a defining issue for organisations and wider society, as the UK contends with a long-term sickness crisis driven by poor mental health. Stress can be motivating in short bursts, but when left unmanaged it contributes to work absences and lost productivity, as well as presenting a clear risk to the health of workers.

    By Charlotte Maxwell-Davies, Mental Health UK  on 09 February 2026

    Mike Robinson 3 Med

    A new year, a new approach to risk?

    The rulebook is becoming obsolete faster than we can rewrite it. While bureaucracies labour to update yesterday’s regulations, the world of work transforms daily.

    By Mike Robinson FCA, British Safety Council on 02 February 2026

    Julie Riggs 2

    Nothing is wrong – until it is: safety in an age of permanent uncertainty

    The fast-moving geopolitical, environmental and social landscape is making it increasingly difficult for organisations to identify, predict and plan for emerging safety hazards and risks, making it more important than ever for safety practitioners to spot the early warning signs before serious harm occurs and alert their employer and the global OSH community.

    By Dr Julie Riggs, British Safety Council on 30 January 2026

    Dr Jamie OHalloran IPPR

    Alcohol – the negative impact on work and workplaces

    New IPPR research shows that most employees expect their employer to play an active role in reducing alcohol harm. Senior staff, in particular, believe employers have an even greater responsibility. Yet in practice, many employees say they do not see their employer taking meaningful steps to minimise harm.

    By Dr Jamie O’Halloran, IPPR on 02 January 2026

    Mike Robinson 3 Med

    Beyond 2025: The journey towards a safer world

    As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on a year of success and safety. It also allows us to look forward to the coming year, recognising that with each new year comes the unbridled hope and opportunity to create the safest year in human history for the workers of the world. 

    By Mike Robinson FCA, British Safety Council on 22 December 2025

    John Robinson Schofield Sweeney Bw

    How to create a neuroinclusive workplace

    The modern workplace is a diverse environment. Most workforces will be made up of individuals representing the majority of the groups protected under the Equality Act 2010.

    By John Robinson, Schofield Sweeney on 09 December 2025

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