NEBOSH and IIRSM sign MoU to strengthen health and safety in the workplace

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

NEBOSH and IIRSM partnership to improve workplace safety

NEBOSH and the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration on improving occupational health and safety.

As reported by NEBOSH, the agreement was formalised during the IIRSM Presidents’ Reception in London.

The organisations aim to jointly promote awareness of both entities, ultimately enhancing workplace safety and health standards.

The MoU focuses on creating opportunities for individuals who hold NEBOSH qualifications to further their professional development, including recognition by professional bodies.

Focus on mutual benefits and equality

NEBOSH and IIRSM plan to maximise benefits through their mutual interests.

The collaboration will consider principles of equality and aim for reciprocal benefits that will serve both organisations.

The agreement will also build on previous collaborative efforts, such as the NEBOSH IIRSM Certificate in Managing Risk, which was developed to promote risk management and safety in various industries.

Leaders highlight long-term collaboration

NEBOSH Chief Executive Andy Shenstone expressed his satisfaction with the renewed partnership: “Risk management is a cornerstone of the HSE profession.

“Our working relationship with IIRSM goes back many years, and I am pleased to sign this MoU, reaffirming our commitment to continued collaboration, and enhancing the learning opportunities for our community.”

IIRSM Chief Executive Phillip Pearson also highlighted the success of previous collaborations: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to sign our new MoU with NEBOSH.

“Built on the back of years of successful collaboration, including our more recent NEBOSH IIRSM Certificate in Managing Risk, we feel that this new agreement will help solidify our global membership and build our collaboration efforts with the wider risk community.”

MoU expected to impact global risk community

The new MoU is expected to positively impact the global risk and safety community.

By enhancing their collaboration, NEBOSH and IIRSM hope to expand their influence and improve health and safety standards worldwide.

Both organisations will continue to identify new opportunities to promote awareness and expand professional recognition for individuals in the risk and safety sector.

The agreement marks a significant step in their ongoing efforts to support and enhance the profession.

NEBOSH and IIRSM sign MoU to strengthen health and safety in the workplace: Summary

NEBOSH and the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to improve occupational health and safety.

The agreement, signed at the IIRSM Presidents’ Reception in London, will focus on promoting awareness of both organisations and providing opportunities for professional development for those with NEBOSH qualifications.

The partnership aims to create reciprocal benefits, build on previous collaborations, and enhance the global risk community.

NEBOSH Chief Executive Andy Shenstone and IIRSM Chief Executive Phillip Pearson both expressed their support for the renewed collaboration, emphasising its positive impact on workplace safety and professional growth.

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.”

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.”

Health and Safety manifesto highlighted by IOSH

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Changes since 2019 and their impact on workplace safety

As reported by IOSH, significant changes have occurred since the last UK General Election in 2019.

The Covid-19 pandemic, the UK’s departure from the European Union, and the acceleration of climate change have all influenced workplace dynamics and safety.

These factors have led to various impacts on the health and safety of workers.

Keith Hole of The Safety Man, in the second of a blog series by OSH professionals leading up to the General Election, discussed the emerging risks that workers face.

He emphasised the importance of considering these risks in light of the upcoming election, as outlined in IOSH’s manifesto Safer, Healthier, Happier.

Emerging risks in the modern workplace

Hole highlighted that one of the primary concerns is the rise of psychosocial hazards due to changing workplaces.

Remote working has blurred the lines between work and personal life, increased isolation, and led to a lack of ergonomic home office setups, resulting in stress, burnout, and musculoskeletal disorders.

Additionally, Hole noted that the modern work environment has become more sedentary, reducing physical movement between tasks.

The gig economy and non-traditional work arrangements also contribute to mental health issues due to less job security, fewer benefits, and unclear responsibilities.

The UK Government has responded with PPE regulations requiring casual workers to have the same protection as direct employees.

Technological and demographic shifts

Hole pointed out that new technologies, such as automation and robotics, present both opportunities and risks.

While robots can perform dangerous tasks, human-robot interactions must be carefully managed to avoid accidents.

Automation can also lead to job displacement, causing stress and uncertainty among workers.

Hole also mentioned demographic changes in the workforce as another factor.

An ageing workforce requires ergonomic adjustments and chronic health condition management, while younger workers need tailored approaches due to their lack of experience and ongoing development.

Specific guidance, such as that provided by the British Standards Institute on menopause, may be necessary to address these issues.

Environmental considerations in workplace health and safety

According to Hole, climate change introduces new hazards, particularly for outdoor workers, through extreme weather events and rising temperatures.

These risks must be integrated into risk assessments and management systems.

Additionally, the transition to a greener economy may bring unforeseen risks that need to be addressed.

Hole concluded that it is essential for the next Government to prioritise the management of new and emerging health and safety risks to protect workers effectively.

Hajj 2024 health and safety measures for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyMiddle East - Breaking News

Guidelines for a safe Hajj pilgrimage

The annual Hajj pilgrimage, a global event attracting over 1.8 million participants last year, is scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia from 14 to 19 June 2024.

Ensuring the health and safety of all pilgrims necessitates a focus on preventive measures.

Cases of meningococcal disease have been reported in travellers returning from Saudi Arabia, underscoring the importance of adhering to health requirements.

As reported by SOS Group of Companies, International SOS encourages organisations with employees participating in the Hajj to ensure their workforce is aware of essential precautions for a safe and healthy journey.

Aligned with the latest health and safety regulations established by the Saudi Arabian authorities, International SOS has developed comprehensive guidelines to ensure pilgrims’ health, security, and wellbeing.

The guidelines outline crucial pre-travel considerations, including newly implemented requirements.

Key aspects include official permit and vaccination requirements, heat mitigation strategies, and promoting vigilance and awareness of surroundings, particularly during crowd surges.

Health and vaccination requirements

Dr Nosa Aihie, Regional Medical Director, Middle East, at International SOS, emphasised the importance of adhering to vaccination requirements: “It is important for pilgrims to adhere to vaccination requirements listed by the government of Saudi Arabia to protect themselves and their peers from various infectious diseases.

“This includes the required vaccination against meningitis administered no more than three years and at least ten days prior to the planned arrival in Saudi Arabia.

“In line with this, pilgrims are advised to carry valid health certificates stating they are free from any acute, chronic or infectious diseases.

“Furthermore, we suggest scheduling activities to avoid peak heat hours whenever possible and being adequately hydrated during Hajj, as pilgrims may experience heat-related illnesses and dehydration.”

The guidelines also advise that all routine vaccinations, including COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, should be up to date.

Depending on the country of origin, travellers may need to show proof of polio and yellow fever vaccination.

Registration on the ‘Sehaty’ app is mandatory to verify vaccination status and facilitate entry into the country for all pilgrims.

Safety measures and crowd management

Gulnaz Ukassova, Security Director at International SOS in Dubai, stressed the need for thorough pre-travel preparation and compliance with government directives: “It is vital for pilgrims undertaking Hajj to thoroughly understand and comply with the relevant Hajj regulations prior to, and during, the pilgrimage.

“Pilgrims should expect large crowds at religious sites, particularly on the Jamaarat Bridge in Mina and around Al-Masjid Al-Haram Mosque in Mecca.

“Remain safe during crowd surges by staying alert to surroundings, adhering to designated lanes, avoiding walking against the direction of traffic and knowing the nearest emergency exits and evacuation routes.

“Pilgrims should also account for potential travel disruption and increased demand for various services during this period.”

The guidelines encourage organisations to offer security briefings and heightened situational awareness practices for their employees.

These include pre-departure briefings on security protocols, situational awareness practices, and cultural sensitivities.

Developing contingency plans to address potential travel disruptions during the Hajj is also recommended.

Managing extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures are a notable risk during Hajj.

Pilgrims are advised to prioritise staying hydrated and to choose lightweight and light-coloured clothing to help regulate body temperature and reduce heat stress.

Ensuring pilgrims are educated on the risks of extreme temperatures is crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Employers are urged to provide employees with a crowd management guide containing tips for navigating densely populated areas.

Pilgrims should save emergency contact information for police, ambulance services, embassy officials, and local contacts on their mobile phones for immediate assistance if needed.

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.

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.

IAFF advocates for a nationwide asbestos ban in the US

by AmericasFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is backing a bill in the US aimed at implementing a nationwide ban on asbestos, hoping to reduce the asbestos-related deaths that affect dozens of fire fighters annually.

Fire fighters at greater risk due to asbestos exposure

Greg Russell, IAFF Governmental Affairs Representative, recently spoke at a congressional staff briefing on the proposed legislation.

He clarified that asbestos is a known carcinogen causing diseases such as mesothelioma and cancers of the lung, larynx, and ovaries.

It’s particularly concerning for fire fighters who often face exposure to airborne asbestos fibres in their line of duty.

Russell said: “Fire fighters are regularly exposed to airborne asbestos fibres as they respond to fires and other hazardous situations, making them 200 times more likely to develop related illnesses than the general public.”

He added that occupational cancers are now the leading cause of death among fire fighters.

To address this, the union is actively seeking solutions.

Recent events underline the urgency for an asbestos ban

Highlighting the seriousness of the issue, Russell shared an incident from Richmond, Indiana.

Fire fighters from the Richmond Local 1403 were called to a warehouse fire insulated with asbestos.

While they managed to control the fire quickly, it lingered for several days, causing prolonged asbestos exposure.

Following the fire, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identified asbestos particles on over 300 properties nearby.

Russell said: “The situation in Indiana illustrates why the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified firefighting as a Group 1 carcinogen.”

He urged lawmakers to prioritise the health and safety of fire fighters by adopting measures such as the proposed asbestos ban.

Global push for asbestos ban gains momentum

Currently, over 70 countries have prohibited the use of asbestos. Should the US pass the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act, it would ban the import, use, and sale of asbestos.

Additionally, industries working with asbestos would need to switch to non-asbestos technology, a transition seen as economically viable and eco-friendly.

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, co-founded by Linda Reinstein, is leading a coalition in support of the bill.

Reinstein’s dedication stems from a personal tragedy, as her husband Alan succumbed to diseases caused by asbestos exposure.

She highlighted the significance of the legislation, mentioning that it aims to safeguard a broad spectrum of Americans, including vulnerable workers, first responders, and especially children.

IFSJ Comment

The support by IAFF for a nationwide asbestos ban sheds light on the pressing concern of asbestos-related health hazards, especially for fire fighters.

Exposure to this carcinogen has proven fatal for many, and the Richmond incident underscores the risk present in older structures insulated with asbestos.

With over 70 nations already enforcing a similar ban, the push for the U.S. to adopt this legislation is timely.

The move will not only protect the lives of our brave first responders but also benefit the broader community, reinforcing public health and safety standards.

About IAFF

The International Association of Fire Fighters, commonly known as IAFF, is an influential organisation dedicated to representing the interests of professional fire fighters and paramedics in the US and Canada.

They are committed to improving the working conditions of their members, promoting safety, and advocating for better community health and safety regulations.