New tool launched to tackle home fire fatalities and social vulnerability

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

The US Fire Administration (USFA) has recently unveiled the Home Fire Fatalities and Social Vulnerability Explorer, a tool to shed light on fire risk and vulnerability across the United States.

This innovation is a part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Geospatial Resource Center, a world-class resource platform for emergency managers, researchers, and other professionals in the field of public health and safety. The link to this platform can be found here.

Combatting home fire fatalities through data assessment

This Social Vulnerability Explorer augments USFA’s pre-existing home fire fatalities data set.

It incorporates the Social Vulnerability Index data, provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

The tool’s main objective is to help evaluate potential underlying factors that could contribute to home fire fatalities.

Addressing fire risks in vulnerable communities

Moreover, this tool will increase awareness about fire risks and vulnerability on national, state, and county scales.

It is designed to aid communities in developing focused efforts to combat fire hazards within vulnerable communities and at-risk groups.

Accessing the Social Vulnerability Explorer is straightforward. You can locate it on USFA’s Home Fire Fatalities in the News page or by navigating to FEMA’s Geospatial Resource Center and selecting “Structure Fire” from the “Hazard Pages” menu.

Home fire fatalities: understanding the issue

Since 2012, USFA has been gathering information on home fire fatalities. Data is compiled through daily online searches of US news media reports, making it available to the public in near-real time.

This data is utilised to raise awareness about the perils of fire and the regularity of home fire deaths.

An enhanced data set for home fire fatalities and social vulnerability

The Social Vulnerability Explorer significantly bolsters the original home fire fatalities data set from the USFA.

This combined resource presents an interactive map to help raise awareness of fire risk and vulnerability at various geographical scales.

IFSJ Comment

The launch of this tool is a significant step towards employing data-driven approaches to understand and mitigate fire risks, particularly among socially vulnerable communities.

It provides a unique intersection of home fire fatalities and social vulnerability data, offering professionals a nuanced and comprehensive overview to better tailor their prevention and response strategies.

Lithium-ion batteries and e-mobility safety receive spotlight at CPSC forum

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

The hazards related to the quickly developing e-mobility industry were the focus of a forum hosted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), as reported by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The forum discussed the rising concerns over lithium-ion battery safety, particularly fires in e-bikes and other micro-mobility devices.

Rapid increase in lithium-ion battery-related injuries

In New York City alone, there were 13 injuries in 2019 caused by fires linked to e-mobility devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. By 2022, the number had risen to 147, with a further increase anticipated as 87 injuries have already been recorded this year.

Fire Department of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Laura Kavanagh commenced the forum by stating: “Lithium-ion batteries are now a top cause of fatal fires in New York,” with 13 fatalities already reported this year.

The need for a comprehensive approach to lithium-ion battery safety

The NFPA Vice President of Outreach and Advocacy, Lorraine Carli, was among key contributors to the CPSC forum, which also included representatives from manufacturer associations, consumer groups, and voluntary standards organisations.

Addressing the commission, Carli recognised the increasing challenges of fire and electrical hazards in our fast-paced, tech-reliant communities and advocated for a comprehensive strategy to tackle this emerging fire threat.

Carli said: “The Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem provides a framework to address this multi-dimensional challenge,” focusing on four critical areas: the regulatory environment, the use and enforcement of current codes and standards, trained and equipped first responders, and a well-informed public.

There was a wide agreement among the panellists on the need for stronger regulations for e-mobility device safety.

This includes mandatory safety standards, enforcing existing rules, and closing gaps that permit the import of untested, potentially hazardous batteries and devices into the U.S.

The explosive nature of lithium-ion battery fires

The panelists highlighted the explosive traits of lithium-ion battery fires. FDNY Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn likened these fires to those initiated by incendiary devices, stating: “These fires are large from the start.”

Carli stressed that preparing first responders for lithium-ion battery fires is crucial for their safety and should be prioritised.

She pointed to the symposium titled “Lithium-Ion Batteries: Challenges for the Fire Service,” co-sponsored by NFPA, FDNY Foundation, and U.L., as a substantial resource providing guidance for the fire service.

The panellists also emphasised the role of the public in enhancing safety.

While it can be hard for individuals to determine the safety of lithium-ion batteries in e-mobility devices, consumer education on the potential hazards and proper usage and maintenance of these devices can prevent potentially catastrophic fires.

In conclusion, CPSC Commissioner Mary Boyle stated: “Hearing from the stakeholders is an incredibly important part of the regulatory process… there is broad consensus that we need to act and act quickly.”

IFSJ Comment

This development underlines the urgency for a comprehensive understanding of lithium-ion battery safety, particularly in e-mobility devices.

As our dependence on technology grows, so do the risks, and it is crucial to keep abreast of these developments and preventative strategies.

About CPSC

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is a US government agency that protects the public from risks of injury or death from consumer products.

They achieve this through developing voluntary standards, conducting research into product-related illness and injury, and educating consumers about product safety.

Their commitment to addressing safety concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries in e-mobility devices is instrumental in shaping regulations and encouraging safe practices.

Reigniting passion in occupational safety and health

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyIFSJ ExclusivesSafety

IFSJ catches up with Andy Shenstone, recently appointed Chief Executive at NEBOSH, to talk social impact in occupational safety and health

Leading the field in occupational safety and health (OSH), NEBOSH is invigorating its commitment to social impact.

At the helm of this transformation is Andy Shenstone, the newly appointed Chief Executive of NEBOSH.

An industry veteran, Shenstone brings is someone with a passion for social good and a wealth of experience in nurturing sustainable organisations in the education and training sector.

The journey leading Shenstone to NEBOSH was one paved with intent and alignment.

Reflecting on his career, Shenstone says: “Personally and professionally, I am motivated by work that can make some positive and sustainable social impact.”

Having devoted the past eight years to the development of sustainable organisations in the realms of education and training, Shenstone now aims to harness his expertise to amplify NEBOSH’s influence and impact in the global OSH arena.

He describes the path that led him to NEBOSH: “Last summer I started seeking a CEO role. And coincidentally, as I made that decision, I was almost at the same time approached by the agency that was supporting the CEO recruitment process at NEBOSH.”

These initial dialogues with the board led to an appointment panel and a series of interactions with the staff at the organisation.

The passionate commitment of the NEBOSH team resonated with Shenstone’s own drive for social impact, leading to his appointment as CEO.

A global force

NEBOSH stands as a leading international organisation, with a vision firmly rooted in enhancing workplace health and safety.

Its mission is to establish itself as the pre-eminent global provider of high-quality qualifications, training, and learner engagement.

The goal? To promote and improve occupational health, safety, wellbeing, and environmental management across workplaces worldwide.

With a broad portfolio of credit and non-credit bearing OSH qualifications that cater to learners in over 120 countries, NEBOSH is undeniably a global force in the OSH domain.

Through its internationally active, UK-registered charity, Advanced HE, NEBOSH is committed to enhancing higher education for students in society worldwide.

Reinventing OSH

Describing his tenure so far, Shenstone gives three words: “Busy, fulfilling, stimulating.”

Since his appointment, he  has immersed himself in understanding the organisation and its mission, focusing on face-to-face meetings with staff across the organisation, where he says he was made to feel warmly welcome.

His recent weeks, he tells, have been marked by engaging with NEBOSH’s key learning partners and external stakeholders in the wider community.

The future promises a challenging balance as he intends to divide his time addressing internal priorities alongside maintaining an active dialogue with external priorities and partners.

A future filled with social impact

Shenstone shared his ambitious vision for NEBOSH’s immediate future, identifying three main priorities: modernisation of core business systems, protecting the credibility of OSH awards, and enhancing NEBOSH’s social impact.

The Chief Executive firmly believes in the power of modernisation as he seeks to bolster NEBOSH’s core business systems to help maintain its unparalleled position as the credible provider of level three and level six OSH qualifications.

NEBOSH, under Shenstone’s leadership, plans to assert itself against any threats that might undermine the credibility of OSH awards.

Looking beyond the immediate future, Shenstone is committed to magnifying the organisation’s social impact. “There is a lot we’re already doing in this area,” he points out, adding that he plans to identify where NEBOSH’s future priorities should lie regarding social impact.

He further emphasises the need to explore more ways to enhance and improve inclusivity in the OSH workforce.

Upholding rigour and excellence

NEBOSH’s qualifications hold a formidable reputation within the industry. Shenstone champions their rigour, stating that they have a proven history of propelling individuals into more senior professional positions.

He also highlights how NEBOSH swiftly navigated recent changes to the IOSH membership structure that affected international learners.

Now, NEBOSH has secured recognition for these learners, underscoring its commitment to quality and adaptability.

Shenstone proudly highlights NEBOSH’s adult diploma scholarship programme.

Named after Michael Adamson, who tragically lost his life in a workplace incident, the programme supports aspiring professionals worldwide in developing the skills they need to ensure workplace safety.

Shenstone explains: “That whole scholarship programme is geared towards helping aspiring professionals develop the skills they need to succeed in the workplace, and help keep people safe from harm.”

He adds: “We receive applications from around the world, and previous recipients including people from as far afield as Qatar, Nigeria, United Arab Emirates, and Ghana.”

Expanding reach and impact

Under Shenstone’s guidance, NEBOSH’s focus for the next 12 months and beyond is centred around social good.

His aim is to explore more ways NEBOSH can give back to the global HSE community and provide further support in the area.

Shenstone shares: “We’ve already got a suite of programmes, for example: scholarships, alumni membership, webinars, and CPD events.

“We want to do more with both what we do and look to see how we can collaborate with our partners in the OSH community to make an even bigger difference.”

Reinforcing this vision, he expressed his intention to invest more in the organisation’s people and systems to support existing learning partners and customers, thereby enhancing their experiences with NEBOSH.

In the grand scheme of things, NEBOSH aims to reignite its passion for social impact and social service.

As Shenstone rightly put it: “We absolutely need to energise that area, and I think lots of organisations in OSH environments that actually do that as well with us in partnership.”

The future, indeed, holds promise for NEBOSH, as it seeks to reinvigorate its commitment to social impact under the passionate leadership of its new Chief Executive.

Fire Service Psychology Association urges for a comprehensive psychological support framework for firefighters

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

The Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA) has issued a call for the advancement of psychological support and resources dedicated to fire service professionals.

This comes as a response to the increasing demand within the profession for a well-structured psychological support system akin to what is available for the police and military.

Psychological support needed in the form of education and services

The FSPA is championing a wide-ranging support system that encompasses psychological education and services specifically catered to firefighters.

In their view, training should not be limited to technical skills, but should also aim at understanding the psychological implications of their work.

Such knowledge would serve to lessen the negative aspects of their job, inhibit psychological degradation, and make clear when professional help is required.

The essential role of fire officers in psychological support

The association is acknowledging the crucial part fire officers play in fostering mental health within their teams.

To aid in this, the FSPA underlines the importance of providing training to assist officers in forming psychologically safe work environments.

They highlight the need for culturally adept clinicians who are familiar with the distinctive difficulties encountered by firefighters.

FSPA also advocates for the establishment of pathways for psychologists to attain these competencies, to more effectively meet the demands of the national fire service.

Furthermore, they emphasise the need for financial support towards ongoing psychological research targeting firefighter populations.

They draw attention to the fact that most of the existing literature is drawn from international sources, demonstrating a demand for increased local research and specialised publications like a Journal for Fire Service Psychology.

Five crucial projects to enhance psychological support

Outlined by the association are five key initiatives:

  1. Assessment: Formulation of pre-employment psychological standards, yearly behavioural health screening standards, and department-wide anonymous organisational assessments to improve understanding of the mental health difficulties within the force.
  2. Workforce Development: Cultivating culturally proficient psychologists and clinical interventionists for the fire service.
  3. Specialised Training and Access for Departments: Offering both basic psychological preparation and advanced psychological training for firefighters and officers.
  4. Suicide Intervention: Supporting an ongoing national project of psychological autopsies to identify common factors among firefighters who have died by suicide.
  5. Trauma Risk Management: Moving from the outdated Critical Incident Stress Management model to the Psychological First Aid model and training peer support teams to spot mental health risks.

This endeavour exemplifies FSPA’s dedication to protecting the mental health of our courageous firefighters who put their lives on the line every day to ensure our safety.

Real-time hazmat information for first responders at rail incidents: US DOT proposes new requirements

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

In a move likely to bring about significant changes to safety procedures, the United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) is proposing new requirements for the sharing of real-time hazardous materials (hazmat) information with first responders at freight rail incidents.

East Palestine incident highlights need for real-time hazmat information

On the 3rd of February, 2023, a freight train operated by the Norfolk Southern Railway derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, leading to 38 railcars overturning.

The event received national media attention, mainly due to concerns about public health following the hazardous materials leak.

The incident underscored the necessity for first responders to have immediate access to information about on-scene hazards.

First responders require quick, coordinated, and specialized responses at hazardous materials incidents.

The right personal protective equipment (PPE) and knowledge of the chemicals involved are crucial for effective and safe response decisions.

Hazmat exposure risk for first responders

Approximately 300 firefighters from 50 departments were on the scene of the derailment in East Palestine on the night of February 3.

Many of these firefighters were volunteers, lacking both hazmat training and specialized equipment.

Their PPE may have provided inadequate protection from the hazardous materials exposures, which included vinyl chloride, a highly toxic, flammable, and known carcinogenic liquified compressed gas.

Communication issues during hazmat incidents

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating the incident in East Palestine.

Last week, during a hearing, NTSB presented initial findings, including a video summary of the hazardous materials release and an investigation summary featuring incident footage.

The hearing discussed several issues related to the communication between first responders and the railroad.

There was a 45-minute delay before responders were given a list of the materials in each of the tank cars.

In addition, firefighters on the scene didn’t have access to critical information via the AskRail app.

Also, placards identifying the hazardous materials on the tank cars had been damaged by the fires.

Moreover, the hardcopy of the train’s content list was not immediately available since the conductor had disconnected the head-end locomotives and was moving them a mile away from the derailed railcars.

Proposed changes for quicker access to hazmat information

In response to these challenges, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is soliciting input on proposed reforms.

A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking was posted in the Federal Register on June 27, and it is open for public comment until August 28, 2023.

PHMSA is suggesting changes to its Hazardous Materials Regulations.

These amendments pertain to the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act and are intended to bolster requirements for the provision of real-time train content information to first responders at hazardous materials rail incidents.

The proposed amendments would require railroads to maintain current train content lists in both hardcopy and electronic formats.

Moreover, the amendments suggest that as soon as a railroad is aware of an accident involving any hazardous materials, it should actively push train content information to authorized responders within a 10-mile radius.

The proposed amendment also includes a requirement for all carriers, regardless of their class, to share this information, as opposed to the current requirement which is only applicable to class 1 railroad carriers.

IFSJ Comment

If the proposed amendments are accepted, they would help ensure that first responders have timely access to critical information, ultimately leading to more effective and safer emergency responses.

UK firefighters call for 12-month maternity pay to protect mothers and babies

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Fire Brigades Union demands full maternity pay for a year, citing health concerns

In a significant move, the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has advocated for twelve months of maternity leave on full pay for firefighters.

This proposal has been informed by research findings, suggesting that exposure to firefighting contaminants can detrimentally affect the health of pregnant firefighters, foetuses and babies.

Current maternity pay policies put financial pressure on mothers

In a letter submitted to the Local Government Association, the National Women’s Committee of the FBU highlighted that numerous women feel compelled to resume firefighting duties prematurely when their pay is reduced by half, making extended maternity leave unaffordable.

Despite the physically rigorous nature of their work and the associated exposure to harmful fire contaminants, the existing maternity pay policy for firefighters only provides 90% of the usual salary for the initial 6 weeks.

This is followed by a further decrease to 50% pay for 12 weeks, and subsequently, the statutory maternity pay. This policy is set out as the national standard in the Grey book.

There are, however, fire and rescue services that offer more generous maternity pay packages, resulting in an uneven distribution of benefits based on geographic location.

For instance, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service provides full pay for 26 weeks of maternity leave.

Fire service employers are now reviewing the maternity pay issue

This matter has now been put forth to fire service employers who have acknowledged the problem and have pledged to respond in a timely manner.

Ben Selby, FBU assistant general secretary, commented on the situation: “We need the best possible national maternity provision to support new mothers in the fire service instead of them being punished with a pay cut.

“This injustice is a health issue, with firefighters facing occupational health risks for themselves, foetuses, and new-borns due to exposure to contaminants.

“Employers should be doing everything in their power to ensure that the material support is there, so that nobody is forced to choose between working as a firefighter and becoming a parent.

“Proper maternity pay is essential for building an equal, supportive fire service which values and protects the health of pregnant staff and new parents.”

Robyn Richardson, acting secretary of the FBU National Women’s Committee, also added: “No-one should have to choose between protecting their salary and having a baby. Many firefighters struggle to make ends meet on half pay, forcing them to return to work far sooner than they should have to.

“Women have been raising the need for proper maternity provision for decades: it is vital to building a supportive, inclusive workplace. The fire service can and must do better.”

IFSJ Comment

This is a crucial development in the fight for better maternity rights within the fire and rescue services.

Ensuring the health and well-being of our brave firefighters, and their children, should be of paramount importance.

By offering a year of full maternity pay, we can alleviate some of the financial pressure on new mothers and help to safeguard their health and that of their newborns.

About the Fire Brigades Union

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is a trade union in the United Kingdom for wholetime Firefighters, Retained Duty System and Volunteer Firefighters, as well as Control Staff.

Since its inception in 1918, the FBU has been committed to representing the interests of its members, championing better health and safety provisions, pay, and working conditions.

Central Council of Appeal holds Emmen Municipality liable for former firefighter’s PTSD

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

Firefighter’s prolonged exposure to trauma

The Central Council of Appeal has recently ruled that the Municipality of Emmen is responsible for the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) developed by former firefighter Ruud Lohuis, according to NL Times.

The court recognised the municipality’s failure to provide appropriate aftercare to Mr Lohuis, who faced 25 traumatic incidents during his service.

Mr Lohuis served as a firefighter and diver at the Emmen fire brigade between 1982 and 1993.

Throughout his service, he was subjected to several distressing experiences that continue to have a significant impact on his mental health.

The aftermath of unresolved trauma

These encounters ranged from perilous diving incidents to dealing with the aftermath of fatal accidents, which often involved retrieving bodies from vehicles.

Mr Lohuis was also regularly faced with severely injured individuals, suicides, and numerous unsuccessful rescue attempts. His work incapacitation followed a distressing incident where a roof collapsed on him.

Despite the series of traumatic experiences, Mr Lohuis stated he received no aftercare for his trauma, leading to a decline in his personal life that resulted in the loss of his family, job, and friends.

In 2014, Mr Lohuis was diagnosed with PTSD by the mental health service in Emmen. While subsequent treatments have helped him manage his daily life better, he believes the damage to his relationships is irreversible.

Legal victory highlights importance of addressing PTSD among firefighters

Mr Lohuis sought justice from the Municipality of Emmen, attributing his mental health issues to his job.

While his initial objections and the initial court case were unsuccessful, the Central Appeals Tribunal – the highest court for civil servants – ruled in his favour in June.

According to Ferre van de Nadort, Mr Lohuis’s lawyer, the ruling signifies an “important turnaround” for aid workers.

“”PTSD has been recognised as an occupational disease by the police and the Ministry of Defense, but the fire brigade and other emergency services have not reached that stage yet. This opens the way for that,” he remarked.

Upon hearing the ruling, Mr Lohuis reflected, “That’s very important. I didn’t fight for nothing. It means a lot to our profession. I hope colleagues don’t have to go through the same thing as I have for the past 20 years.”

When approached for a comment, the Municipality of Emmen declined to discuss the ruling, citing the procedure as still ongoing.

They also refrained from making any statements about their (former) employees.

IFSJ Comment

This ruling marks an important milestone in recognising the mental health challenges that firefighters face. It underscores the need for appropriate support mechanisms, including aftercare, to mitigate the impact of PTSD on our brave firefighters.

Understanding and addressing firefighter PTSD can save families from the distress that Ruud Lohuis and many others have endured.

This landmark judgement sends a clear message to fire and rescue service providers everywhere: mental health is paramount, and ignoring it may have legal repercussions.

New Indiana pilot programme set to monitor PFAS levels in firefighters

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and SafetyPPE

Professional Fire Fighters Union of Indiana and legislators collaborate for protective measures against PFAS

The Professional Fire Fighters Union of Indiana (PFFUI) has introduced a ground-breaking law in Indiana: one that aims to safeguard firefighters from exposure to PFAS.

“Knowing what level of PFAS we have absorbed into our bodies is just the first step, but it is an important one,” stated PFFUI President Tony Murray: “We hope this will lead to earlier and more frequent cancer screenings. If we can catch cancer early, we can save lives.”

Tony expressed gratitude to Rep. Maureen Bauer for her hard work and dedication in making this possible.

The PFFUI and Bauer have been working together for several legislative sessions to fine-tune the bill’s language and gain support from other lawmakers and the state fire marshal’s office.

House Enrolled Act 1219: monitoring PFAS levels in firefighters

Through the collaborative effort, House Enrolled Act 1219 has been passed. This Act, enforced by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (DHS), kickstarts a pilot program. This program will monitor PFAS levels in 1,000 firefighters using regular blood tests.

Rep. Maureen Bauer described the significance of this new legislation: “As my community of South Bend continues to mourn the loss of several firefighters to occupational cancer in recent years, the PFAS testing pilot program will finally give firefighters a tool to know their own cancer risk early on and help prevent future late-stage diagnoses.”

Selection process for PFAS monitoring program underway

Now that the law has been enacted, the selection process for the pilot programme has started. The program is projected to include a diverse group of firefighters, including those who work in busy firehouses and airports, and those with less exposure, such as new firefighters.

In recognition of this achievement, General President Edward Kelly remarked: “Congratulations to our Indiana members on getting this important bill passed. State laws like this one play a critical role in the IAFF’s fight against PFAS exposure and occupational cancer.

“This is an important step for our Indiana members so they can take action and stay healthy and safe on the job.”

IFSJ Comment

This marks a significant step towards understanding and combating the risks associated with PFAS exposure in firefighters.

It also underscores the necessity for firefighters to be aware of their own health risks, potentially leading to earlier intervention and prevention of late-stage cancer diagnoses.

Work-related fatality numbers revealed by Health and Safety Executive

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has revealed that one hundred and thirty-five workers have lost their lives in work-related incidents across Great Britain over the last year.

The most dangerous sectors: construction, agriculture, and manufacturing

According to the published data, construction (45 fatalities), agriculture, forestry, and fishing (21 fatalities), manufacturing (15 fatalities), and transportation and storage (15 fatalities) industries reported the highest numbers of work-related fatalities.

The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector has the unfortunate distinction of having the highest rate of fatal injury per 100,000 workers of all the main industrial sectors.

The waste and recycling industry followed closely behind.

This annual report from the HSE, which is responsible for regulating workplace safety in Great Britain, covers the period from April 2022 to March 2023.

The major causes: falls, moving objects, and vehicles

The three most frequent causes of fatal work injuries were falls from height (40 fatalities), being struck by a moving object (29 fatalities), and being struck by a moving vehicle (20 fatalities).

In comparison to previous years, the total of 135 worker deaths in 2022/23 is higher than the previous year (123) but is consistent with levels before the pandemic.

Despite these numbers, Great Britain remains one of the safest places in the world to work. Th

ere has been a long-term downward trend in fatal injuries to workers, though the rate remained broadly flat in the years prior to the coronavirus pandemic.

In addition to worker fatalities, another 68 members of the public were killed due to work-related incidents in 2022/23, a decrease of 20 from the previous year.

Public statements and future outlook

Sarah Albon, the Chief Executive of HSE, stated: “Any loss of life in the workplace is a tragedy. While these figures show Great Britain is one of the safest countries in the world to work, safety must continue to be at the top of everyone’s agenda.

“Our mission is to protect people and places and we remain committed to maintaining safe workplaces and holding employers to account for their actions.”

The HSE also released the annual figures for Mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by past exposure to asbestos. These figures indicate 2,268 people died from the disease in 2021, a decrease of 302 from 2020.

Regulations currently mandate that where asbestos is present in buildings, it must be managed, kept in good condition, and remain undisturbed. If this level of protection cannot be achieved, asbestos must be removed. HSE’s recent campaign, Asbestos & You, aims to raise public awareness of the risks associated with this dangerous substance.

IFSJ Comment

This report is crucial as it highlights the persistent risk workers face in certain industries. It’s a stark reminder that despite improvements, there is still a need for stringent safety measures and regular risk assessments. We must continue our efforts to ensure that every worker returns home safely at the end of the day.

About the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. We prevent work-related death, injury and ill health through regulatory actions that range from influencing behaviours across whole industry sectors through to targeted interventions on individual businesses. These activities are supported by globally recognised scientific expertise.

Updated UK fire safety regulations emphasise role of Responsible Persons

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

A close look at the updated fire safety responsibilities

The United Kingdom government has released new guidance on fire safety, affecting non-domestic premises where people work, stay, or visit, such as workplaces and the communal areas of multi-occupied residential buildings.

The full guidance is available on the government’s website.

Primary enforcing bodies maintain their roles

The primary enforcing bodies for the Fire Safety Order remain the local fire and rescue authorities, the Health and Safety Executive, the Defence Fire Safety Regulator, and the Crown Premises Fire Safety Inspectorate, depending on the nature and occupancy of the building.

Changes to Responsible Persons’ duties under the Building Safety Act 2022

The Building Safety Bill was given Royal Assent in April 2022, becoming the Building Safety Act 2022. The legislation amends the Fire Safety Order and introduces a slew of new requirements for responsible persons.

Key among these changes is the increased emphasis on recording: completed fire risk assessments, contact information, fire safety arrangements, and the identity of any individual or organisation involved in undertaking or reviewing fire risk assessments.

Responsible persons are now required to share relevant fire safety information with incoming responsible persons.

For buildings housing two or more sets of domestic premises, responsible persons must provide residents with easily understandable fire safety information.

The act also strengthens the status of statutory guidance issued under Article 50 of the Fire Safety Order and introduces higher fines for some offences.

The need for competence in fire risk assessments

It’s worth noting that under the new legislation, if a responsible person appoints someone to conduct or review the fire risk assessment, that person must be competent.

The competent person should have enough training, experience, or knowledge to carry out the task effectively.

Duties of responsible persons in multi-occupied premises

In multi-occupancy commercial buildings, the responsibility does not lie solely with individual businesses. The landlord or a managing agent, who has overall responsibility for safety within the building, is also considered a responsible person. Responsible persons must collaborate, sharing names, UK addresses, and the extent of their responsibilities under the Fire Safety Order.

Cooperation between Responsible and Accountable Persons

In higher-risk residential buildings, responsible persons must identify and cooperate with accountable persons for the sake of fire safety.

This cooperation helps to facilitate a whole building approach to fire safety, making use of the Golden Thread of Building Information required in all new higher-risk residential buildings.

Information transfer for incoming responsible persons

Existing responsible persons are also required to provide incoming responsible persons with all relevant fire safety information.

If contact details for the incoming responsible person are unknown, it is advised to provide the necessary information to the building owner or manager.

Amplifying resident engagement and understanding of fire safety

The changes to the Fire Safety Order necessitate providing residents of multi-occupancy buildings with detailed fire safety information. This helps the residents feel more informed and involved in fire safety measures within their building.

IFSJ Comment

The Building Safety Act 2022 has increased the level of fines for certain offences under the Fire Safety Order.

It also strengthened the status of all Article 50 guidance, helping to establish whether there was a breach of the Fire Safety Order during court proceedings.

This news is crucial for all those who own, manage, or operate buildings in the UK, as it underlines the significance of thorough documentation, enhanced cooperation, and transparency in maintaining fire safety.

The regulations highlight the UK Government’s commitment to safeguarding residents and workers by improving fire safety across the country.