NEBOSH marks the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work Act

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

NEBOSH reflects on 50 years of the Health and Safety at Work Act

As highlighted by NEBOSH in its latest blog, 2024 marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA).

NEBOSH is reflecting on the impact of the Act and its relevance to contemporary challenges.

Introduced following the Robens Report, the HSWA replaced industry-specific legislation with a goal-setting regulatory framework.

The Act emphasised self-regulation, requiring those who create risk to manage and control it.

The Health and Safety Commission and the Health and Safety Executive were established to oversee and enforce these regulations.

The HSWA’s framework and responsibilities

NEBOSH outlines that the HSWA aims to protect the health, safety, and welfare of workers and the public affected by work activities.

It establishes general principles for employers and employees to follow, requires employers to assess and manage risks, and provides mechanisms for developing health and safety regulations.

Employers are required to have a health and safety policy, provide a safe workplace and adequate welfare facilities, appoint a competent person to manage health and safety, carry out risk assessments, and inform employees about workplace hazards.

Employees must take reasonable care of their own and others’ health and safety, work with their employer to create a safe workplace, comply with health and safety training, and report concerns or incidents.

The impact and evolution of the HSWA

NEBOSH highlights that the HSWA has significantly reduced workplace fatalities.

According to the HSE, in 2022/23, 135 workers were killed in work-related accidents, a significant decrease from around a thousand fatalities per year at the time of the Robens Report.

Technological advances have introduced new risks, but the regulatory model has adapted to meet these challenges.

NEBOSH emphasises a shift in attitudes towards the Act, with a greater understanding that keeping people safe not only avoids prosecution but also brings business benefits.

A safe work environment improves the workplace and can assist in tendering for work or recruiting employees.

Looking to the future of workplace safety

The flexible, risk-based approach of the HSWA has remained resilient over five decades.

Its principles have been applied to modern workplaces, including those that involve new technology and home working.

NEBOSH notes that the Robens Report was ahead of its time, acknowledging concerns about mental health and new technology risks.

Section 2(1) of HSWA states: “It shall be the duty of every employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all employees.”

NEBOSH suggests that the future of workplace safety could focus more on protecting mental health, as stress, depression, or anxiety account for a significant portion of work-related ill-health.

Read the full article from NEBOSH here.

UK Health and Safety Act needs update to match modern work practices, says IOSH

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Health and Safety Act remains fit for purpose, poll finds

The UK’s Health and Safety at Work Act continues to be relevant but requires updates to align with modern working practices, according to a recent poll conducted by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

As reported by IOSH, over 80% of respondents to an online poll believe the Act remains effective 50 years after its introduction.

The Act, credited with significantly reducing workplace fatalities from 651 in 1974 to 138 last year, is seen as a cornerstone of workplace safety legislation.

However, the reduction in fatalities has plateaued over the past decade, suggesting a need for renewed efforts and updates to the legislation.

Wednesday, 31 July, marks the 50th anniversary of the Act’s Royal Assent.

Despite its successes, IOSH has called on the UK Government to be proactive in updating laws and regulations to continue preventing workplace harm.

Calls for legislative updates

Ruth Wilkinson, IOSH’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs, emphasised the importance of the Act but highlighted the necessity for updates: “The Act has certainly played a significant role in making workplaces safer and healthier since 1974 due to the goal setting legislation and it being risk-based.

“And it’s clear from our poll that the consensus is it remains relevant today.”

Wilkinson pointed out ongoing challenges: “But 138 people died in workplace accidents last year.

“And the most recent figures from the Health and Safety Executive showed 1.8 million reported they were suffering from work-related ill health, half of them saying they had stress, depression or anxiety.

“This is costing the economy many billions of pounds and, crucially, impacting on people’s lives.”

IOSH’s manifesto, published before the UK General Election, urged the Government to ensure that laws and regulations, as well as their application and enforcement, reflect modern working practices and address new and emerging hazards, including those from new technologies and climate change.

Public and professional opinions

The IOSH poll, conducted on LinkedIn, received 1,137 votes, with 82% of respondents indicating the Act remains fit for purpose.

Health and safety professionals contributed various suggestions for updating the Act.

One professional commented: “Needs reviewing, updating and to include additional occupational health and mental health into the review.”

Another added: “As with a lot of legislation, there are some parts that will undoubtedly require updating to continue to be relevant.

“[The Act] has, and continues, to underpin how we operate as professionals.”

A third respondent stated: “[The Act] is still as relevant today as it was back in 1974.

“One area I would update is to include wellbeing as a theme within the legislation.”

MSA Safety launches V-Gard H2 safety helmet with Mips protection system

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyIndustrialPPEProductsSafety

MSA Safety unveils V-Gard H2 helmet

MSA Safety has announced its latest head protection innovation, the V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet.

This new addition to the V-Gard line integrates the Mips brain protection system, enhancing safety for industrial workers.

Greg Martin, Senior Vice President and Chief Product and Technology Officer at MSA Safety, highlighted the helmet’s features: “The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet extends MSA Safety’s position as the leader in industrial head protection with new innovations and added lateral protection for particular applications.”

The helmet is designed to meet ANSI Z89.1 Type II certification, protecting against various head impacts, including lateral and side impacts.

Mips brain protection system integrated in new helmet

The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet offers the option to include the Mips brain protection system.

This system is a low-friction layer inside the helmet that moves slightly upon impact, redirecting rotational energies and reducing the risk of brain trauma.

Max Strandwitz, CEO of Mips, emphasised the importance of this partnership: “Mips is proud to partner with MSA, a global PPE leader, to further amplify our mission to lead the world to safer helmets.”

MSA Safety’s new helmet aims to address the dangers of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in industrial settings.

The Mips system adds a layer of protection against angled or lateral impacts, such as those from slips, trips, and falls.

Versatile features of the V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet

The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet comes with various features to enhance its utility in different industrial applications.

These include an integrated 4-point chinstrap and compatibility with most V-Gard H1 and V-Gard accessories.

The helmet is available in both vented and non-vented options, offering a wide range of colors and customisation choices, including logo options.

Greg Martin noted the versatility of the helmet: “We’re offering customers highly customizable and versatile helmet options for use across a wide variety of industrial areas and applications.”

MSA Safety’s commitment to worker protection

The V-Gard H2 Safety Helmet is part of MSA Safety’s broader mission to keep people safe at work.

By partnering with Mips, MSA Safety aims to enhance the protective capabilities of its helmets, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of industrial workers.

Max Strandwitz of Mips further emphasised the significance of addressing TBIs in the industry, noting that the collaboration with MSA Safety is a milestone in improving industrial safety.

NEBOSH Day to return for Intersec 2025 with health and safety programme

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

NEBOSH to participate in Intersec 2025

The 26th edition of Intersec will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 14-16 January 2025.

NEBOSH has announced its participation as one of over 1,100 exhibitors from more than 50 countries.

The event will feature over 10,000 Safety & Health, Security, and Fire & Rescue products and services.

NEBOSH’s team will be present throughout the show at stand 7-C27, ready to engage with attendees.

NEBOSH to develop health and safety programme

NEBOSH has been selected to develop the health and safety programme for 15 January.

The programme will include sessions confirmed with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), and the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM).

Dee Arp, NEBOSH Chief Quality Officer, elaborated on the plans: “We plan to offer delegates a programme covering a range of topics.

“All the senior health and safety leaders who will be part of NEBOSH’s day will share insights and best practices.”

Learning opportunities at Intersec 2025

Intersec 2025 promises a day packed with learning opportunities, particularly on the day NEBOSH leads the health and safety programme.

Attendees will benefit from sessions featuring industry experts and thought leaders.

“We are looking forward to being part of the 26th edition of Intersec and hope to see you there,” said Dee Arp.

Additional highlights of Intersec 2025

Beyond NEBOSH’s contributions, Intersec 2025 will showcase a diverse array of products and services from various sectors.

The event aims to facilitate networking, knowledge sharing, and business opportunities for professionals in the fields of safety, security, and fire protection.

Health and safety responsibilities in FTSE 250 companies revealed

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

New research uncovers workload of health and safety officers

New research by Skillcast has highlighted the substantial responsibilities placed on health and safety officers across the UK.

By examining various data points, the compliance e-learning company sought to estimate the number of people each health and safety officer is responsible for, identify the regions with the most injuries, and determine which industries are more susceptible to workplace injuries.

The findings indicate that, on average, one health and safety officer could be entrusted with the safety of 99 people at any given time.

Additionally, Skillcast determined using LinkedIn data that health and safety officers constitute only 1% of the overall workforce in FTSE companies.

Regional disparities in workplace injuries

Skillcast’s analysis, based on data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), revealed significant regional disparities in non-fatal workplace injuries.

Workers in Wales are the most susceptible to injuries, with 267 non-fatal injuries recorded per 100,000 employees.

Following Wales, the North East and North West regions each reported 256 injuries per 100,000 employees.

At a more granular level, North Warwickshire has the highest rate of non-fatal workplace injuries, with 852 injuries per 100,000 employees.

Other high-risk areas include South Staffordshire and Bolsover, with 599 and 550 injuries per 100,000 employees, respectively.

Industry-specific injury rates

The research also highlighted industry-specific injury rates, with agriculture, forestry, and fishing being the most dangerous sectors.

Employees in these industries are more than twice as likely to suffer an injury, with a rate of 3,730 injuries per 100,000 workers.

Other high-risk industries include construction, with 2,640 injuries per 100,000 workers, and accommodation and food service activities, with 2,500 injuries per 100,000 workers.

Vivek Dodd, CEO of Skillcast, commented on the findings: “As businesses strive to create safe and healthy work environments, our research highlights the pivotal role health and safety officers play in protecting the well-being of employees and maintaining operational integrity.

“The insights provided should urge organisations to evaluate their safety protocols and invest in the necessary resources to provide key training for staff and ensure a secure workplace for all.”

New report highlights gaps in UK health & safety leadership

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

UK Health & Safety: Senior leadership’s limited safety knowledge

New data released this morning (10 July) shows that managers and directors in UK organisations lack sufficient competence and understanding of workplace Health & Safety beyond their baseline legal compliance.

The ‘Safety Culture Maturity Report 2024’, published by Safe365, reveals that senior leadership currently only possesses a basic understanding of safety and risk management, with an average maturity score of just 44% in risk management expertise.

According to HSE figures, over 60,000 workers sustained a workplace non-fatal injury last year, while just under a million suffered from work-related stress or anxiety.

Workplace injuries alone are estimated to cost the UK economy approximately £7.7 billion each year.

Enforcement and legal implications

Responding to the Safety Culture Maturity Report 2024, specialist Health and Safety lawyer, Dr Simon Joyston-Bechal of Turnstone Law, commented: “Poor understanding in the Boardroom concerning directors’ personal criminal law obligations is still letting down many organisations.

“We can expect renewed vigour on enforcement by the Health & Safety Executive under the new Government; so there has never been a more important time for directors to understand that they can be personally criminally prosecuted with potential jail sentences if they are not as proactive as would be expected for someone in their role.”

The Safe365 report assessed data across 10 key Health & Safety modules, including Health & Safety data collection, Manager Knowledge, Worker and Contractor engagement, and Emergency Preparedness, with some areas lacking more than others.

Beyond a lack of senior leadership knowledge, for example, SMEs were found to be 17% less prepared to deal with emergency situations than their larger counterparts.

Industry-specific performance

There were also weaknesses in performance maturity identified for businesses operating in specific industries, with IT and Media (41%), Arts and Recreation (42%), and Public Service (42%) scoring lowest across all industries.

Industries such as Mining (57%), Utilities (56%), and Professional Services (55%) were all found to be more mature in comparison.

Nathan Hight, Co-Founder of Safe365, stated: “Although many business leaders have a clear understanding of Health & Safety governance and legal obligations, our research shows there’s still work to do to ensure Health & Safety is a boardroom-level conversation.

To protect UK workers, organisations need to stop ticking Health & Safety boxes and instead come together to drive nationwide improvements to safety and risk management in the workplace.”

Personal impact of inadequate safety measures

One individual impacted by a less proactive approach to safety is Jason Anker MBE, Chairman & Director of Anker & Marsh.

Jason suffered life-changing spinal injuries following a workplace accident that left him paralysed from the waist down.

He remarked: “As employees, we trust that the right workplace environments are in place to keep us safe, but in most cases—and as this research proves—processes and procedures are not enough.

“We need safety to be a part of workplace culture—and for this culture to start at the very top.

“This would help protect myself and the 60,000 other UK employees a year that fall victim to workplace accidents and injuries.”

UK government must prioritise workplace safety, says IOSH

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

IOSH calls for stronger workplace health and safety standards

Following the success of the Labour Party in the UK general election, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has urged the new Government to focus on enhancing workplace health and safety standards.

Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, highlighted the critical need for improved safety measures: “The new Government is missing a trick if it doesn’t focus on protecting people at work.”

Wilkinson pointed out the current statistics, noting that 138 people were killed at work last year.

Additionally, over half a million individuals were injured in workplace accidents, and 1.8 million suffered from work-related ill health.

These incidents cost the UK economy tens of billions of pounds annually and increase the burden on the NHS.

The economic impact of workplace injuries and ill health

The economic ramifications of workplace injuries and ill health are substantial.

According to Wilkinson, these preventable incidents lead to significant financial losses and strain public health resources.

She stated: “If the Government is serious about stabilising the economy, reducing economically inactive workers and cutting NHS waiting times, strengthening workplace health and safety standards is a good place to start and potentially a quick win.”

Wilkinson emphasised the preventable nature of these deaths, injuries, and health issues.

She called for a focused approach to mitigating these risks, suggesting that a proactive stance could yield immediate benefits for the UK economy and public health system.

Addressing new and emerging workplace hazards

IOSH has also called on the Government to support businesses in tackling both existing and new workplace hazards and risks.

Wilkinson stressed the importance of promoting a diverse, skilled, and better-motivated workforce.

She said: “We’re also calling on the Government to support businesses to tackle new and emerging workplace hazards and risks as well as existing ones.”

This call to action underscores the need for continuous improvement in workplace safety protocols to adapt to changing environments and emerging threats.

Ensuring workers’ safety not only protects employees but also enhances overall productivity and job satisfaction.

BOHS introduces free student membership for occupational health students

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

BOHS offers free membership for students

The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) is providing a new opportunity for students with a free membership programme.

This initiative aims to support students studying subjects related to worker health protection, such as occupational health and safety.

The announcement, reported by NEBOSH, highlights BOHS’s commitment to fostering education and professional development in the field.

Students who take advantage of this offer will receive a 12-month free membership.

Benefits include access to BOHS’s professional magazine, Exposure, and the Annals of Work Exposures and Health, the society’s scientific journal.

Additionally, members can avail of discretionary discounts for BOHS meetings and conferences and gain free access to professional guidance and content.

Benefits of BOHS student membership

The free membership programme by BOHS provides students with several valuable resources.

The membership includes copies of Exposure, a magazine that offers in-depth articles on various aspects of worker health protection.

Students will also have free access to the Annals of Work Exposures and Health, which contains world-renowned scientific research and findings in occupational hygiene.

The initiative also allows members to attend BOHS meetings and conferences at reduced rates.

These events offer networking opportunities and access to the latest developments in occupational health and safety.

Additionally, students can utilize the professional guidance and content provided by BOHS to enhance their understanding and skills in the field.

How to apply for free membership

Students interested in this opportunity can apply directly through BOHS.

The membership is open to all students studying subjects related to worker health protection.

This includes fields such as occupational health and safety, and wellbeing.

By offering this membership, BOHS aims to support the next generation of occupational hygienists and health protection professionals.

The society has been a leading authority in the UK for worker health protection since its founding in 1953.

With its Royal Charter awarded in 2013, BOHS continues to provide valuable information, expertise, and guidance in recognising, controlling, and managing workplace health risks.

BOHS’s role in occupational health

BOHS represents qualified occupational hygienists in the UK and focuses on preventing workplace health risks.

Occupational hygienists work to identify and mitigate hazards that can affect worker health.

This aligns with the broader aim of occupational health and safety, which seeks to manage and ensure the wellbeing of workers.

As a science-based charitable body and professional society, BOHS plays a crucial role in advancing the field of occupational hygiene.

By offering free membership to students, BOHS is investing in the future of worker health protection and supporting the development of skilled professionals who will continue to advance the field.

Construction industry sees increase in fatalities in 2023-24

by ConstructionFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

New figures reveal rising deaths in UK construction

New figures published on 3rd July 2024 reveal that 51 deaths occurred in the UK construction industry during the 2023-24 period, an increase of four from the previous year.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), this figure means that construction accounted for over a third of the 138 workplace fatalities in the UK.

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has expressed significant concern over these numbers and is urging immediate action to reduce workplace deaths, a figure that has remained broadly consistent for over a decade.

Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, commented: “There has been a rise in fatalities in construction, meaning the number of deaths in that industry is significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.

There has also been a rise in the total number of workplace fatalities so it’s clear that lessons aren’t being learned and that much more still needs to be done to protect workers.”

Fatality rates across industries

While construction had the highest number of deaths, agriculture, forestry, and fishing saw the highest fatality rate per 100,000 workers.

In these sectors, there were 7.51 deaths per 100,000 workers compared to 2.43 in construction.

Overall, the total number of workplace fatalities increased by two from the previous year, with the figure fluctuating between 130 and 150 over the past decade.

The most common fatal accidents last year were falls from height, accounting for 50 of the 138 deaths.

Another 45 deaths were caused by workers being struck by a moving vehicle or object.

Notably, workers aged 60 or over represented 34 per cent of those killed, despite only comprising 11 per cent of the workforce.

Calls for improved safety measures

IOSH is advocating for businesses and the government to take more rigorous measures to improve occupational health and safety.

Wilkinson stated: “Whichever party forms the new Government must seek to protect and enhance health and safety standards, particularly across high-risk industries like construction.

“And businesses need to step up and ensure they have robust occupational health and safety management systems and control strategies in place to prevent accidents at work and reduce the chance of them happening.”

She emphasised the importance of a safe working environment: “Providing a safe and healthy working environment isn’t just an add-on for a business.

“It is now a fundamental principle and right at work, as recognised by the International Labour Organization.

“So, we need to see a joined-up approach to tackle harm at work to prevent more lives being needlessly lost.”

Mesothelioma deaths reported

On the same day, the HSE also released data on mesothelioma deaths in the UK, showing that 2,257 people died from the asbestos-related cancer in 2022, slightly down from 2,290 in 2021.

IOSH has been vocal about the need for more action to address asbestos-related diseases both in the UK and globally.

The Invisible Risk Survey: Comprehensive study launched to gather firefighter health data

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyResearch

Study aims to identify hidden firefighter health risks

SimTrainer UK has launched “The Invisible Risk Survey,” a comprehensive study focused on cancer diagnoses and related health issues within the firefighter and emergency responder community.

Spearheaded by John Lord, Managing Director at SimTrainer UK, the survey aims to uncover the hidden health risks faced by those serving on the front lines of public safety.

The key objectives include understanding the prevalence and types of cancer affecting firefighters, evaluating current practices regarding contaminated clothing and equipment, measuring employer and healthcare support systems, promoting awareness of health programs and early screening methods, and documenting other significant health issues such as cardiovascular and mental health conditions.

The survey is open to all current and retired firefighters, emergency responders, and associated support staff.

Participation is crucial to building a comprehensive database that will drive future research, improve health and safety standards, and ultimately save lives.

Fill in the survey here.

Call to action for survey participation

SimTrainer UK is urging all relevant individuals to participate in this survey.

The input provided will be invaluable in shaping the future of health and safety protocols for those who risk their lives to protect others.

To take part in the survey, participants can visit the provided survey link.

John Lord emphasized the importance of the survey: “The invisible risk survey is to gather data from sources missed by the FBU UCLAN survey.

“Aviation, industrial, military firefighters, other blue light agencies, retired personnel from all agencies, and support staff like fireground and BA tech are encouraged to participate.”

He added: “If you have had cancer, have cancer, or have a close family member who lives with you, please consider completing the survey.

“It’s anonymous, with no personal details like names or emails required. It includes a section on heart disease and other serious illnesses and is informative and interesting to see what’s highlighted.”

Goals of the survey

The primary goals of The Invisible Risk Survey are to identify cancer trends among firefighters and emergency responders, assess workplace practices related to handling contaminated clothing and equipment, gauge the support provided by employers and healthcare professionals, increase awareness of available health programs and early screening methods, and highlight additional health concerns such as cardiovascular and mental health conditions.

By understanding these factors, SimTrainer UK aims to develop strategies and recommendations that will enhance the health and safety standards within the firefighter community.

The findings from this survey will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the health risks faced by those in this profession and help in the creation of better support systems.

Importance of community participation

Lord stressed the importance of community participation: “This survey is essential in helping us build a detailed and accurate database that will inform future research and initiatives.

“The more data we can collect, the better we can understand and address the health challenges faced by our firefighters and emergency responders.”

The data collected will be used solely for research purposes and to improve health and safety standards.

IFSJ Comment

The “The Invisible Risk Survey” by SimTrainer UK represents a focused effort to address health concerns within the firefighter and emergency responder community.

By targeting a wide range of participants, including those from aviation, industrial, military, and other blue light agencies, the survey aims to fill gaps left by previous studies.

This initiative seeks to gather comprehensive data on cancer trends, workplace practices, support systems, and other health issues.

The anonymity and inclusivity of the survey encourage broad participation, which is essential for building a robust database.

This data will be crucial for developing improved health and safety protocols, ultimately benefiting the individuals who serve on the front lines of public safety.

The commitment to understanding and addressing these hidden health risks reflects a proactive approach to enhancing the wellbeing of firefighters and emergency responders.