Mental Health Awareness Week: IOSH outlines strategies for managing mental health in the workplace

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

IOSH highlights key elements for workplace mental health

Mental Health Awareness Week is being observed from 13 to 19 May. Duncan Spencer, Head of Advice and Practice at IOSH, has provided insights into a strategic approach for managing mental health in the workplace.

IOSH emphasises that good mental health is crucial for overall wellbeing and that a fulfilling job plays a significant role by providing a sense of purpose and achievement. Whether mental health issues arise from work-related stress or personal challenges, they impact performance at work.

 IOSH advises that organisations have a moral duty to develop strategies for addressing mental health issues, regardless of their origin.

IOSH advises on prevention, coping, and integration

At the Manchester Safety, Health and Wellbeing event in January 2024, Dr. Ed Corbett from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), speaking on behalf of IOSH, outlined three key elements of an effective mental health management system: prevention, coping and adaptation, and integration.

According to IOSH, prevention is critical but challenging to achieve.  Reactionary measures like mental health first aiders and employee assistance programmes are commonly used.

 Since individual responses to stress vary, predicting reactions is difficult.

 IOSH advises that a sound strategy involves recruiting individuals suited to their roles with the appropriate coping skills.

 With mental health now recognised as an occupational safety issue, IOSH advocates for the principle of “predict to be preventative” to guide strategies.

Building resilience and integrating health considerations

IOSH also highlights the importance of coping and adaptation, which involves building resilience at both individual and organisational levels, often through education.

Managers and employees need to identify potential mental health triggers and know how to respond.

Effective strategies, according to IOSH, must include performance monitoring, responsive actions, and incident reporting and investigation while maintaining confidentiality.

For integration, IOSH stresses that health and safety considerations should be integral to operational decisions.

This includes aligning policies on health and safety, dignity at work, equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as addressing the needs of all workers, including full-time, part-time, and temporary staff.

IOSH advises that mature organisations extend these considerations to contractors and supply chain partners, ensuring competitive pressures do not compromise health and safety standards.

Enhancing mental health strategies

IOSH suggests that organisations can further enhance their strategies by considering positive measures to improve mental health.

These comprehensive strategies are essential for fostering a supportive and effective work environment.

IFSJ Comment

The advice provided by IOSH underscores the importance of developing a robust mental health management strategy for organisations committed to the wellbeing of their employees.

The insights shared by Dr. Ed Corbett at the Manchester Safety, Health and Wellbeing event offer a comprehensive framework for addressing mental health in the workplace.

IOSH’s emphasis on prevention, coping, and integration highlights the need for a proactive and holistic approach.

By incorporating health and safety considerations into everyday business decisions, organisations can create a work environment where mental health is prioritised.

This approach ensures that all employees, regardless of their employment status, receive the necessary support.

Extending these practices to contractors and supply chain partners reflects a mature and responsible approach to workplace mental health.

As organisations continue to evolve, enhancing mental health strategies with positive measures can further contribute to a supportive work environment, ultimately benefiting both employees and the organisation as a whole.

Northern Ireland installs defibrillators at all fire stations to enhance public safety

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Northern Ireland fire service ensures community access to emergency defibrillators

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has completed the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at all its fire stations, ensuring widespread public access to critical life-saving equipment.

As reported by the NIFRS website, this initiative places AEDs at 67 fire stations and the NIFRS headquarters in Lisburn, aiming to provide early intervention in cardiac emergencies.

Studies highlight the effectiveness of prompt defibrillation, suggesting that survival rates can soar above 50% if administered within three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest.

This strategic deployment of AEDs underscores the NIFRS’s commitment to enhancing community safety and emergency responsiveness.

Statements from NIFRS leadership

NIFRS Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings commented on the project: “We are delighted to announce that we have installed defibrillators at all of our Fire Stations.

“Our stations are at the centre of the community which makes them easily accessible to the public and will enhance the availability of initial emergency equipment in the event of a cardiac arrest.

“NIFRS stands as a key pillar in facilitating public use of defibrillators.”

The accessibility of these defibrillators for public use during emergencies is further augmented by their inclusion in ‘The Circuit’.

This integration allows Ambulance Control at the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) to direct individuals to the nearest available defibrillator.

Government and healthcare sector support

Health Minister Robin Swann praised the initiative: “This is very welcome news for communities right across Northern Ireland.

“We know that every second counts when someone has a cardiac arrest and getting prompt access to a defibrillator, alongside CPR, will give them the best chance of survival.

“That’s why the investment by the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service is so important.”

Similarly, Jay Colville, Chairperson of the NIFRS Board, emphasized the service’s commitment: “Our commitment to equipping every Fire Station with a defibrillator is a testament to our dedication to public safety across Northern Ireland and our role as a vital player in the collective effort to save lives during emergencies.”

James Cant, CEO at Resuscitation Council UK, highlighted the ease of use of these devices: “Defibrillators help save lives and anyone can use one. They tell you exactly what to do, no training is needed.

“If someone is having a cardiac arrest, it simply needs to be switched on and it will talk the person through each step – it’s like having an expert in the room.”

IFSJ comment

The deployment of AEDs across all fire stations in Northern Ireland by NIFRS is a significant step in improving public safety and emergency preparedness.

By making these life-saving devices readily available, NIFRS is enhancing its capability to respond to cardiac emergencies.

This initiative serves as an exemplary model for other regions aiming to enhance public health and safety infrastructure.

Health and safety workloads increase under new legislation, says report

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearchSafety

First annual report highlights the growing demands on property compliance

New legislation and a strengthened emphasis on best practice are contributing to increased workloads and additional pressures for property and facilities managers, as reported by William Martin.

The health, safety, and property compliance firm released its first annual property compliance report, detailing the impacts of new laws and best practice culture.

Data from 20,000 risk assessments and survey reports, managed through the firm’s compliance software Meridian, formed the basis of this report, which covered the period from April 2023 to March 2024.

The report noted a 22% rise in health and safety actions across various disciplines from the previous year, totalling almost 327,000 actions.

Phil Jones, Managing Director at William Martin, remarked: “The property and facilities management industry shoulders a huge responsibility when it comes to upholding the highest standards of health and safety.

“With the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022, we’re seeing a significant shift from mere compliance to a focus on best practice and continuous improvement.”

Insights from William Martin’s compliance report

In-depth analysis within the report reveals several concerning trends in health and safety management.

Notably, it is taking an average of 42 days to address Priority 1 actions from risk assessments.

Fire safety actions have increased by 53%, driven by new legislation, with a considerable number of these actions relating to inadequate fire doors.

Asbestos-related concerns also grew, with a 29% increase in actions necessitating asbestos removal, highlighting the deteriorating condition of asbestos in many UK buildings.

The report further indicates that nearly one-quarter of all Priority 1 health and safety actions last year concerned passenger lift safety, often due to inadequate documentation and record-keeping.

Approximately 17,000 actions were associated with legionella risks, underlining the ongoing threat of significant outbreaks.

Jones added: “The burden of increased workloads is exacerbating some worrying trends, such as the unacceptable time taken to address urgent actions and poor record-keeping practices around lift safety.

“Technological solutions and AI can help reduce human error and the likelihood of overlooking risks or misfiling reports.

“By using technology to work smarter, we can free up time to concentrate on initiatives that genuinely reduce risks.”

Addressing future challenges and opportunities

The company plans to continue publishing this data annually to track long-term industry trends.

This approach aims to provide actionable insights for property and facilities management professionals to prioritize within their operations.

IFSJ Comment

The findings from William Martin’s inaugural property compliance report shed light on the evolving challenges within the property and facilities management sector.

As legislative changes and best practices evolve, the industry must adapt to manage the increased workload effectively while continuing to enhance safety standards.

The ongoing commitment to annual reporting can play a crucial role in identifying trends and informing future strategies to mitigate risks and improve overall safety.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue launches new Home from Hospital service

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

New initiative aims to support the vulnerable and reduce NHS pressure

In a continued effort to support vulnerable individuals in Staffordshire, the Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has introduced a new initiative named ‘Home From Hospital’.

This scheme is designed to ease the transition of patients from Royal Stoke University Hospital back to their homes, ensuring they receive essential care and support post-discharge.

Launched following the success of the award-winning falls response service, Home From Hospital seeks to provide comprehensive in-home care.

Specialised Fire and Health Partnership Technicians are responsible for delivering an array of services.

These include ensuring patients are seated comfortably, conducting home safety checks, and providing necessary refreshments, among other supports.

The aim is to create a safe and welcoming environment for patients returning home.

Enhanced care and support for discharged patients

Ian Read, Head of Prevent, Protect and Partnerships at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, expressed his satisfaction with the initiative: “I am delighted that the Home From Hospital service is now up and running.

“Serving our communities, and especially the most vulnerable, remains a priority for us, and I believe that this new initiative is just the latest endorsement of that.

“Our hope is that this will provide a welcome supplement to the valuable existing discharge services.

“With the additional capacity and ‘settling in’ element that we are offering, we are ensuring that all patients will get the appropriate care.”

Since its inception on 19 April, the service has already supported over 550 patients.

Read added: “I think it’s the personal touch makes all the difference.

“Treating people with dignity, respect and humanity has always been at the forefront of everything that we do, and we expect that to only strengthen through the scheme.”

Impact on NHS capacity and patient well-being

Hayley Bishop, Director of Integrated Discharge at Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, commented on the service’s efficiency and its benefits to NHS operations: “This incredible service has supported more than 550 patients since December 2023 and in most cases the patient was returned home within an hour of the request.

“This responsiveness has enabled beds at Royal Stoke University Hospital to be released earlier in the day and ensure our older patients who live alone are home before dark and feel settled back at home, with the assurance they are both safe and warm.

“It has been an exceptional project to work alongside and the Integrated Discharge Hub team at Royal Stoke have all found working with the fire service a very positive experience.

“The fire service has made a real difference to our teams and our patients as evidenced by the feedback we have all received.”

IFSJ Comment

The Home From Hospital initiative by Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service underscores the potential of innovative community care programs to enhance patient outcomes and support NHS operations.

By integrating medical care with home safety checks and personal attention, the service ensures a seamless transition for patients returning home, significantly contributing to their recovery and well-being.

This initiative serves as a model of effective collaboration between healthcare providers and emergency services, showcasing how such partnerships can effectively address community needs.

Hochiki secures food production facility in the Netherlands with advanced fire detection system

by Health and SafetyProjects

JTI Brandbeveiliging installs comprehensive fire safety solution for Kervo’s new plant

Installers JTI Brandbeveiliging have been instrumental in enhancing fire safety at a food manufacturing facility in the Netherlands by integrating Hochiki Europe’s fire detection system, Latitude, along with weatherproof devices.

This initiative aims to offer superior fire protection and operational confidence to the food manufacturer, focusing on producing high-quality food without concerns about safety disruptions.

Navigating challenges in food production safety

The installation at the food production facility posed unique challenges, particularly concerning the generation of steam during production and cleaning processes, which could potentially trigger false alarms.

Luciën van Eldijk, leading the JTI Brandbeveiliging team, shared insights into the complexities of the project: “In food production sites like this, it is essential for the machinery to remain clean throughout the entire process.

“This means there is a lot of steam and water present, which, unfortunately, can trigger false alarms.

“We needed to install devices that could negate this issue, Hochiki’s weatherproof call points, sounders, and sensors were the perfect solution.

“They worked seamlessly with the Latitude fire safety system from Hochiki.”

Technical specifications and project impact

Latitude is noted for its network-wide cause-and-effect capabilities and is BOSEC approved, meeting stringent Dutch standards for fire safety devices and systems.

The project required extensive infrastructure, including over 2.5km of cabling and numerous fire detection devices to secure the large facility effectively.

The system’s robust design allows for handling up to 20,000 inputs and outputs, making it an ideal choice for significant, complex installations like Kervo’s new plant.

Endorsement and reliability of Hochiki systems

The reliability and ease of installation of Hochiki products were highlighted as key factors in their selection.

Luciën van Eldijk further elaborated on their choice: “Due to the nature of this project, there have been some technical aspects where we have needed to seek advice, but the team at Hochiki have been very helpful in working with us to create the best solution for our customer.

“We choose Hochiki products and systems because they are reliable, they are easy to install and, most importantly, meet the high standards and regulations required by the laws of the Netherlands – we would recommend Hochiki products for this reason.”

IFSJ Comment

This installation not only reinforces the importance of tailored fire safety solutions in specialized environments like food production but also highlights the effectiveness of modern fire detection systems in managing environmental challenges.

Projects like these demonstrate the potential for advanced technology to enhance safety while maintaining operational efficiency in high-demand industries.

Tackling workplace stress: HSE publishes five-step guide for British businesses in Stress Awareness Month

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Five steps to combat stress in the workplace unveiled

This April, as part of Stress Awareness Month, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is urging employers across Britain to adopt a five-step approach to mitigate and manage workplace stress.

The initiative is part of the HSE’s Working Minds campaign, aiming to support mental health in the workplace by encouraging employers to engage actively in the mental well-being of their workers.

Liz Goodwill, the head of the work-related stress and mental health policy team at HSE, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “We are inviting business owners, employers, and managers to join others across Britain to make a difference during Stress Awareness Month in five steps.”

The campaign’s structured approach focuses on the ‘5 Rs’: Reach out, Recognise, Respond, Reflect, and make it Routine, guiding employers through the process of identifying, addressing, and normalising conversations around workplace stress.

Legal obligations and support tools

Preventing work-related stress is not only a moral responsibility but also a legal one.

All employers in Britain are obligated to address work-related stress, helping to foster good mental health within their organisations.

The Working Minds campaign provides numerous resources, including free online learning, Talking Toolkits, risk assessment templates, and examples to aid businesses and workers alike.

Goodwill further elaborated on the legal implications for employers: “Failing to manage work-related stress can cost employers in reduced productivity, sickness absence costs, or even losing a valued member of the team.

“Employers are required to assess the risk of work-related stress impacting their workers and act on the risks identified.”

Campaign partners and support for a proactive approach

The campaign has garnered support from over 30 organisations, including the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH).

Rachel Suff, senior policy advisor at the CIPD, stressed the necessity for a proactive approach to mental health: “Many organisations are reactive and tend to put more emphasis on providing support when people become ill rather than on prevention, including for mental ill health and stress.

“We want to see every organisation taking a proactive approach to employee wellbeing.”

Matt Powell-Howard, Head of Product Development at NEBOSH, also expressed his support: “I’m really pleased that NEBOSH is supporting the Working Minds campaign as we are committed to promoting good mental health and preventing work-related stress.”

IFSJ Comment:

The HSE’s Working Minds campaign’s focus on addressing workplace stress through a systematic, month-long initiative underscores the growing recognition of mental health‘s importance in occupational safety and health.

By providing a structured framework for employers to tackle stress, the campaign aims to enhance individual well-being and improve overall organisational health.

This approach, supported by the legal framework, underscores the necessity of integrating mental health considerations into the fabric of workplace health and safety strategies.

As businesses continue to navigate the challenges of maintaining a healthy workforce, the principles outlined by the HSE serve as a valuable guide for fostering a supportive and resilient work environment.

The PFAS Paradox: Understanding the health risks for firefighters

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyPPE

The implications of National Institute of Standards and Technology’s groundbreaking study on PFAS in firefighter gear

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely recognised for their presence in traditional firefighting foams and recently identified in turnout gear, stand as a significant and pervasive threat to the fire service.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recently undertook research to find out just how much of a threat the very gear designed to protect poses.

The catalyst for this investigation is a legislative mandate born out of the Guaranteeing Equipment Safety for Firefighters Act of 2020.

This act compelled NIST to investigate the contents and composition of new and unused personal protective equipment worn by firefighters, with a keen focus on the presence and behaviour of PFAS.

PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals infamous for their persistence in the environment and in human bodies, have been a growing concern due to their potential health impacts.

The directive from the act was to explore the conditions and extent to which PFAS substances are released into the environment over time via the degradation of personal protective equipment from normal use by firefighters.

NIST’s response to this directive is Technical Note 2260, a comprehensive study that marks a significant advancement in our understanding of PFAS in firefighter gear.

The collaborative efforts of researchers from the Fire Research Division of the NIST Engineering Laboratory and the Chemical Sciences Division of the NIST Material Measurement Laboratory, with support from the National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory of the National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health, have culminated in this landmark report.

The study examined the occurrence and concentration of PFAS in structural firefighter jacket and pants textiles, subjecting them to a battery of stresses including abrasion, elevated temperature, laundering, and weathering—each reflective of the gear’s performance standards in the United States.

This study is pioneering in several respects.

It is the first to report PFAS concentrations in firefighter gear following exposure to controlled stressing processes, shedding light on the change in 51 non-volatile, semi-volatile, and volatile PFAS after such exposures.

The implications offer a new lens through which we can assess the safety of firefighter gear, not only in terms of immediate protection from fire and heat but also in relation to long-term health risks associated with chemical exposure.

NIST’s findings serve as a foundation for future investigations, promising to expand our knowledge to other types of firefighter gear such as gloves, hoods, and wildland firefighting attire.

The ultimate goal is to understand the lifetime PFAS release potential of firefighter gear, guiding us towards safer alternatives that do not compromise the health of the firefighters or the environment.

Why does turnout gear contain PFAS?

PFAS are utilised in firefighter turnout gear due to their unique properties that enhance the gear’s performance in critical aspects essential for firefighting.

As outlined in the National Fire Protection Association’s Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting (NFPA 1971), firefighter turnout gear, including coats, pants, or coveralls, as well as gloves, helmets, and footwear, is engineered to withstand extreme conditions.

To meet the stringent performance requirements specified in NFPA 1971 for chemical, light, and water resistance, certain layers of turnout gear are commonly treated with fluorinated polymers or include fluoropolymer membranes.

These treatments enhance the gear’s durability and resistance to various environmental stresses such as abrasion, heat, ultraviolet radiation, and laundering.

The inclusion of PFAS-based treatments ensures that the gear provides firefighters with the necessary protection against the diverse and hazardous environments they face, by leveraging the robust chemical and physical properties of PFAS to resist degradation and maintain performance over time​​.

When examining firefighter gear, the NIST study conducted identified various types of PFAS in various small amounts, each behaving differently in terms of staying in the fabric or potentially moving into the air.

This is important because it helps us understand what firefighters might be exposed to during their work.

The impact of wear and tear

The NIST research found that PFAS concentrations vary widely between the different layers of firefighter turnout gear, with the outermost layers containing the highest levels.

The methods employed to measure PFAS concentrations included detailed analysis of stressed textiles compared with unstressed counterparts, using a targeted analytical approach.

This approach, while providing valuable insights into PFAS presence and changes due to stressing, also has limitations.

For instance, it can only detect PFAS included in the targeted list, potentially overlooking other PFAS transformations or new types of PFAS formed during stressing.

These techniques, while sophisticated and capable of identifying specific PFAS changes, suggest that understanding the full spectrum of PFAS behaviour in firefighter gear under stress requires consideration of a broader range of PFAS compounds and stressing mechanisms.

The reliability of findings is strengthened by rigorous analytical methods and replication of tests, but is also bound by the targeted nature of PFAS analysis and the inherent complexity of textile stressing processes​​.

Research implications

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to adverse reproductive, developmental, and immunological effects in animal-based studies, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) categorises PFOA, a type of PFAS, as possibly carcinogenic to humans.

Firefighters can be exposed via inhalation, ingestion, or absorption through skin contact with contaminated gear or from the combustion of products containing PFAS on the fireground​​.

Further research suggests that PFAS exposure in firefighters is an occupational hazard, with turnout gear extensively treated with fluoropolymers for water and oil repellency.

Elevated PFAS levels have been found in the dust and air of fire stations, and systemic reviews indicate a correlation between PFAS exposure and increased cancer risk among firefighters.

This underscores the importance of understanding the sources and pathways of PFAS exposure to mitigate health risks​​.

What now?

Other studies have found that cleaning gear can reduce levels of various contaminants, suggesting that similar approaches could be effective for PFAS.

Adapting maintenance routines to include laundering practices specifically aimed at reducing PFAS could involve evaluating the efficacy of different cleaning methods and detergents, possibly leading to the development of new standards for firefighting gear maintenance.

This could also necessitate additional research to ensure that laundering does not degrade the protective qualities of the gear while effectively reducing PFAS levels.

This study points towards the need for establishing industry-wide standards to reduce PFAS use in firefighting gear.

This variability suggests a lack of consistency in how PFAS are applied and managed in the production of firefighter protective clothing, underscoring the need for standardised approaches to limit exposure to these chemicals​​.

Such standards could include specifications for PFAS concentrations, guidelines for alternative repellent technologies, and requirements for gear performance that ensure firefighter safety without relying on harmful chemicals.

By setting clear benchmarks, regulatory bodies and industry groups could encourage manufacturers to innovate and adopt PFAS-free or reduced PFAS alternatives, potentially leading to a shift in the market towards safer firefighting equipment​​.

As awareness of PFAS-related health risks grows among firefighters and the general public, consumer demand for safer gear is only likely to further incentivise manufacturers to comply with new standards, ultimately benefiting firefighter health and safety.

The future of turnout gear

As awareness of the health risks associated with PFAS grows, there’s a clear push towards developing gear that minimises or eliminates the use of these chemicals without compromising on performance or safety.

Innovations in material science and textile engineering will likely play a central role in this transition, as researchers and manufacturers explore alternative materials that offer the same level of protection, durability, and resistance to water and contaminants as PFAS-containing materials, but without the associated health risks​​​​​​.

This pursuit may lead to a greater emphasis on sustainability and health safety in the design ethos of firefighting gear, incorporating biodegradable, non-toxic, and recyclable materials that meet stringent performance standards.

Additionally, regulatory bodies may introduce stricter guidelines and testing protocols to ensure that new materials meet the operational demands of firefighting while also being safer for the users and the environment.

Collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and the firefighting community will be crucial in driving these changes.

By pooling resources for research and development, sharing knowledge, and adopting best practices, the industry can accelerate the adoption of safer alternatives.

Research initiatives like those undertaken by NIST are pivotal for the evolution of safer firefighting gear, serving as informed, science-based foundations for improvements in safety standards and equipment design.

By systematically identifying and quantifying the presence of PFAS in firefighting gear, NIST’s work lays the groundwork for understanding the extent of chemical exposure and its potential health impacts.

NIST’s research methodologies, which often involve sophisticated analytical techniques and rigorous testing protocols, set benchmarks for quality and reliability in scientific inquiry.

Ultimately, research like NIST’s is vital for driving progress towards gear that better protects firefighters from both immediate dangers and long-term health risks, without sacrificing the essential performance characteristics required for firefighting operations.

This article was originally published in the March 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Building management pivotal in global health and wellbeing, says respiratory expert

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

Impact of indoor environmental quality on health

A recent technical briefing in London, hosted by the CIBSE Patrons, shed light on the critical role of facilities management and building services engineering in global human health and wellbeing.

Dr Philip Webb, Chief Executive of Respiratory Innovation Wales (RIW), emphasised the influence these sectors have, surpassing even the medical and social care professions in terms of impact.

Webb highlighted the severity of the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) crisis, advocating for increased investment in building and facilities management.

This, he argued, would be more effective than medical treatment in reducing excess deaths related to respiratory, cardiovascular, and mental health conditions.

Data on excess deaths due to air quality

Public Health Wales data revealed that air quality is responsible for up to 1,400 excess deaths per 100,000 people annually.

In contrast, Covid-19 accounts for 38 deaths per 100,000, smoking for 180, and cancer for 278.

Despite these numbers, air quality receives a fraction of the public funds allocated to health and wellbeing services.

Legacy of building design and new standards

“We are suffering from a legacy of poor building design dating back to the 1960s and 70s,” Webb said.

He pointed out that people spend up to 90% of their time indoors, making indoor air quality (IAQ) the most pressing issue.

Webb also revealed the upcoming launch of British Standard 40102 (Part One) for health and wellbeing in buildings.

This standard, first unveiled at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai, will offer benchmarks for measuring, monitoring, and reporting IEQ in non-domestic buildings.

Financial aspects and insurance industry response

RIW’s research shows that in Wales alone, £2.4 billion (£763 million on direct health costs) was spent on mitigating Covid-19 impacts.

Comparatively, less than £20 million is spent annually on air quality measures, primarily focused on outdoor air.

Webb also noted the increasing involvement of the insurance industry due to rising claims for workplace ill health.

Comments from industry experts

Helen Yeulet of the Building Engineering Services Association highlighted the industry’s significant skills gap and the role of the Building Safety Act in addressing project quality: “BESA is 120 years old this year and our members have been talking about the skills gap and the importance of ensuring only competent people carry out building services work since the very first meeting in 1904. This is just the latest iteration of a perennial problem.

“However, the stakes are higher than ever now as the new Building Safety Regulator has the legal power to look back 30 years and it will become increasingly important to have evidence that people are being properly trained to be compliant with legislation.”

CIBSE President Adrian Catchpole stressed the need for more professionals to meet climate change targets.

IFSJ Comment

The insights provided by Dr Philip Webb at the CIBSE Patrons technical briefing underscore the importance of facilities management and building services engineering in addressing global health challenges.

The data presented sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of indoor air quality and its impact on public health.

The upcoming British Standard for health and wellbeing in buildings is a step forward, offering guidelines that could set new benchmarks in building design and management, potentially influencing health outcomes on a global scale.

Bangladesh restaurant sector faces urgent need for enhanced fire safety measures

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Lack of Fire Suppression Systems in Dhaka’s Restaurants

In Dhaka city, with an estimated 25,000 restaurants, a pressing concern has surfaced regarding fire safety measures.

Imran Hassan, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Restaurant Owners’ Association (BROA), highlighted the lack of proper fire suppression systems in these establishments during an interview with The Daily Star on 2nd March 2024.

Hassan revealed that of the numerous restaurants in the city, only about 5,000 are registered with the relevant authority.

This registration shortfall raises significant concerns about the fire safety preparedness of these establishments.

The recent tragedy of a fire in a building housing 14 restaurants on Bailey Road in Dhaka, which resulted in at least 46 fatalities, has brought the issue into sharp focus.

Hassan stated: “First of all, a restaurant kitchen must have a specialised fire protection system for the establishment to be granted the licence to run.”

He emphasised the need for adherence to the “3E” principle – education, engineering, and enforcement – which is a standard in developed countries for fire safety in restaurants.

Training and Compliance Challenges

A significant gap in fire safety training and compliance in the restaurant sector was outlined by Hassan.

He noted that out of the approximately 250,000 workers employed in these establishments, a mere 5 percent have received fire safety training.

Hassan lamented the lack of proper adherence to fire containment measures and stated: “But in practice, nobody properly follows such rules in Bangladesh and hardly any emphasis is given to fire-containment measures.”

Hassan further criticised the process of obtaining operating licences for restaurants.

He pointed out that, in reality, many licences are “managed” through unofficial channels, with little regard for environmental or fire safety concerns.

The responsibility for ensuring compliance falls to multiple government agencies, including the fire service, civil defence, and Department of Environment.

However, Hassan alleged these agencies were lax in their duties and not holding restaurant and building owners accountable.

The Path Forward for Restaurant Fire Safety

The severity of the situation calls for a concerted effort to improve fire safety measures in Bangladesh’s restaurant industry.

Hassan drew parallels to the garment industry, which improved its fire safety standards due to external pressure.

He expressed disappointment at the ineffectiveness of BROA in promoting fire safety, saying: “We tried to make the restaurant owners aware about fire safety and compliance issues as it is an industry…but nobody listens to us.”

Hassan’s statements underscore the need for a systemic change in the approach towards fire safety in the restaurant industry.

He stressed the importance of prioritising life safety over profit and called for a collective responsibility among restaurant owners, relevant government agencies, and the BROA to address these critical safety issues.

IFSJ Comment

The recent insights from Imran Hassan, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Restaurant Owners’ Association, regarding the alarming state of fire safety measures in Dhaka’s restaurants, highlight a significant concern.

The lack of proper fire suppression systems and training in fire safety is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action.

This situation calls for a collaborative effort from restaurant owners, government agencies, and associations like BROA to ensure the safety of both employees and patrons.

The adoption of stringent fire safety measures, akin to those implemented in the garment industry, is crucial for the restaurant sector.

NEBOSH HSE certificate in health and safety leadership excellence gains high approval

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Overwhelming Positive Feedback for Leadership Qualification

Ninety-four percent of learners have expressed their recommendation for the leadership qualification developed jointly by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and NEBOSH.

This high rate of endorsement underscores the value and impact of the course among health and safety professionals.

The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Health and Safety Leadership Excellence, designed to instil key leadership behaviours identified by the Health and Safety Executive’s research, has been well received in the professional community.

In a survey focusing on the qualification’s impact, an impressive 97% of respondents reported that it had benefitted their professional practice in health and safety leadership.

The survey, part of a regular review cycle of the qualification, has led to only minor amendments in the new specification, indicating the course’s effectiveness and relevance in current health and safety leadership practices.

Leadership’s Role in Health and Safety Highlighted

Matt Powell-Howard, NEBOSH Head of Product Development, emphasized the influence of strong leadership on health and safety culture: “Great leadership has a positive impact on health and safety culture, and the moral, legal and business benefits of a good health and safety culture are well documented.

This qualification is studied in just one day so that time-poor leaders can attend, learn and leave with the knowledge to make an impact as soon as they return to the workplace.”

Chris Austin, HSE’s Head of Training and Events, further elaborated on the critical role of leadership in effective health and safety performance: “Effective health and safety performance comes from the top. It isn’t just the responsibility of the health and safety department.

“The law places various duties on organisations and employers, and directors can be personally liable when these are not upheld.

“Failure to manage health and safety as a key business risk in board decisions can have catastrophic results.

“Many high-profile safety cases over the years have been rooted in failures of leadership.

“Protecting the health and safety of employees and others who may be affected by an organisation’s activities is therefore an essential part of managing corporate risk and must be led effectively.

“We are delighted to collaborate with NEBOSH on this qualification. It helps current and future leaders of all disciplines to really understand their roles, responsibilities, and the opportunities they have to influence health and safety culture and practice in their workplaces”.

Availability and Access to the Course

The NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Health and Safety Leadership Excellence is accessible through NEBOSH’s global network of Learning Partners.

Prospective learners seeking further information on this esteemed qualification can visit the official NEBOSH website.

IFSJ Comment

The collaborative effort between NEBOSH and the Health and Safety Executive in developing the Certificate in Health and Safety Leadership Excellence reflects a deep understanding of the crucial role leadership plays in fostering a positive health and safety culture within organizations.

The overwhelming positive feedback from learners attests to the effectiveness and practical relevance of the qualification.

Such educational initiatives are essential in equipping leaders with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage health and safety risks effectively, thereby safeguarding the wellbeing of employees and other stakeholders.