Approved Document B fire safety review enters 14 week consultation

by Featured NewsSafety

Fire safety consultation opens in England

A 14-week public consultation has opened on proposed changes to Approved Document B: Fire safety, with responses invited until 1 July 2026.

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR), the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government are leading the consultation on revisions to fire safety guidance in England.

The proposals cover clarifications to existing guidance, revised provisions for combustible materials in external walls and specified attachments and a new requirement for evacuation lifts in certain residential buildings.

The consultation opened on 25 March 2026 and forms part of the ongoing review of Approved Document B in response to recommendations arising from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report.

BSR said the review is intended to keep guidance under continuous review and introduce changes at planned intervals so the construction industry can prepare for future updates.

Fire safety proposals for buildings and external walls

The consultation includes technical clarifications and corrections, consolidated guidance for building work on existing buildings and updated provisions for external wall systems, balconies and roofs.

It proposes that Approved Document B should no longer be used on its own above 11 metres where combustible elements of structure are included.

Updated guidance is also proposed for photovoltaic panels on roofs, along with revised terminology replacing sheltered housing with specialised housing and increased alarm provisions for some specialised housing with care.

For residential buildings above 18 metres, the draft approach proposes evacuation lifts, with new buildings above that height expected to include a minimum of two staircases and two evacuation lifts.

Firefighting lifts would be able to serve a dual function where appropriate.

The consultation also addresses the ban on combustible materials in and on external walls above 18 metres, including a potential exemption for certain laminated glass balustrades subject to defined dimensions and material performance limits.

Higher fire resistance ratings are also proposed for multistorey open-sided car parks to address risks linked to larger vehicle fires and changing vehicle types.

Costs timing and how to respond

According to the consultation, the proposed preferred options would have a cumulative cost of £199 million over 10 years and an estimated net annual cost to business of £29 million.

The document states that benefits have not yet been monetised and identifies clearer guidance, improved consistency in fire safety measures, reduced design ambiguity and better alignment between regulatory and industry standards as expected effects.

The proposed target implementation date is 2 September 2029, which the consultation says would align the changes with the existing 2029 amendment booklet for Approved Document B and give industry more time to adapt.

The consultation states that there is no suggestion that existing or upcoming buildings are inherently unsafe, provided they were built to the standards in force at the time, are properly maintained and are effectively managed.

Responses can be submitted through an online survey or by email to ADBconsultation@hse.gov.uk, with written responses required to state which questions are being answered and whether the submission is from an individual or an organisation.

NEBOSH Verified service introduced to recognise international training standards

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyTraining

New NEBOSH Verified service launches to provide training recognition

The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) has launched a new service to provide exclusive recognition for training providers.

NEBOSH Verified offers expert verification of the quality and impact of health and safety programmes.

Only a select number of courses will be verified at any given time to uphold the board’s globally respected standards.

This approach ensures each programme undergoes a robust review process to meet benchmarks for excellence in health and safety training.

International and UK organisations achieve first NEBOSH Verified status

Arabian Pipeline & Services Co. Ltd. ANABEEB is the first international organisation to have a course verified through the new service.

The Saudi-based industrial services and maintenance company serves process industry clients across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

ANABEEB Chief Executive Officer, Raed Alghamdi said: “We extend our sincere appreciation for the announcement of the collaboration between Anabeeb and NEBOSH.

“This collaboration is a step forward, highlighting a shared, strong commitment to Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) excellence.”

Phoenix Health and Safety is the first UK organisation to receive the verification.

The company is a NEBOSH Gold Learning Partner and provider of health and safety qualifications.

Operations Director, Richard Bath said: “Having worked closely with NEBOSH for many years, we recognise the rigorous quality standards, global credibility, and trusted governance that underpin their qualifications.

“Aligning our course with NEBOSH ensures it is delivered with the academic rigour, practical relevance, and international recognition needed to support organisations and safety professionals as they integrate AI safely and responsibly into their OSH practices.”

A list of all programmes featuring the seal of approval is available on the NEBOSH website.

The key questions behind HSE’s competence consultation

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearchSafety

Industry Competence Committee opens consultation on competence management expectations

Consultation launched on guidance for competence management

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced that the Industry Competence Committee (ICC) has opened a consultation on its new guidance document Setting Expectations for Competence Management.

The consultation opened on Thursday 25 September 2025 and will close at 23:59 on Thursday 6 November 2025.

The ICC was formed under the Building Safety Act 2022 to advise the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and industry on improving competence across the built environment.

The new guidance outlines what organisations should do to meet competence management requirements set out in Part 2A of the Building Regulations 2010 and The Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc.) (England) Regulations 2023.

It aims to clarify what good competence management looks like for both individuals and organisations involved in design, construction and building management.

Guidance applies to a wide range of organisations

According to the ICC, the document applies to organisations carrying out design or building work in all types of buildings, as well as those managing buildings, particularly higher-risk buildings (HRBs).

The guidance builds on feedback from a previous industry consultation held in May 2025.

It sets out broad expectations for how competence should be managed and identifies common elements and principles relevant to all organisations.

Feedback sought on clarity and usefulness of principles

The ICC said it is seeking feedback from industry on whether the principles outlined will help in developing competence management processes and whether they are understandable.

Following publication, the ICC plans to build on the guidance by developing practical case studies and examples to assist organisations.

The consultation also invites views on how these case studies and examples could best support implementation within the sector.

How to respond to the consultation

Responses can be submitted via an online survey, by email or by post to the HSE’s offices at Redgrave Court in Bootle, Merseyside.

The ICC stated that all responses must be received before the deadline of 23:59 on 6 November 2025.

The HSE confirmed that once the consultation closes, it will review all feedback and may refine the guidance document further before publication.

It also plans to develop additional practical resources for industry use.

Confidentiality and data protection considerations

The HSE said information provided in response to the consultation may be subject to publication or disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA), the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR).

Respondents are asked to make any confidentiality requests explicit within their submissions.

The HSE stated that all personal data will be processed in accordance with GDPR, with disclosures made only in line with the regulations.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This consultation will be relevant for fire engineers, building control professionals, facilities managers and contractors responsible for design, construction and management of higher-risk buildings.

The ICC guidance directly links to legal obligations under the Building Regulations 2010 and the Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc.) (England) Regulations 2023.

Fire safety officers and consultants involved in compliance or safety case preparation for high-rise residential buildings may find the document particularly important for understanding regulatory expectations.

Organisations involved in competence assessment, training or certification within the fire and safety sector could also use the consultation period to shape how competence management standards evolve under the Building Safety Act framework.

Industry Competence Committee opens consultation on competence management expectations: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a consultation on the Industry Competence Committee’s (ICC) guidance document Setting Expectations for Competence Management, which runs from 25 September to 6 November 2025.

The ICC, formed under the Building Safety Act 2022, advises the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and industry on competence improvement in the built environment.

The guidance applies to organisations involved in design, construction or building management, particularly those managing higher-risk buildings (HRBs).

It sets out expectations for competence management under Part 2A of the Building Regulations 2010 and The Higher-Risk Buildings (Management of Safety Risks etc.) (England) Regulations 2023.

Feedback is being sought on whether the principles outlined are clear and useful for developing competence management processes.

Responses can be submitted online, by email or by post before 23:59 on 6 November 2025.

This article contains information from the following source: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

Free HSE tool supports UK stress risk assessments

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyTraining

HSE introduces stress risk assessment resource for UK businesses

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a free online training module to help UK employers assess and manage the risk of work-related stress.

The new tool, announced to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week from 12 to 18 May, forms part of HSE’s Working Minds campaign.

The agency explained that the module offers step-by-step instructions for conducting workplace stress risk assessments, identifying causes and applying practical solutions.

According to HSE, around half of all work-related ill health in Great Britain is linked to stress, depression or anxiety.

The training aims to improve understanding among employers, particularly in small and medium-sized organisations, about their legal obligations and methods to support employee mental health.

Training designed to support legal compliance and business performance

Kayleigh Roberts, from HSE’s Engagement and Policy Division, said: “Preventing work-related stress isn’t just the right thing to do for your workers—it’s also a legal requirement.

“Our new online learning module aims to make it easier for businesses, particularly small to medium organisations to understand their obligations and what they need to do on a practical level.”

She continued: “This isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about embedding good practices into everyday business operations.

“By taking a proactive approach, employers can improve productivity, reduce sickness absence, and retain their valued workers.

“The module provides all the practical templates, tools and resources needed to get started or to review existing practices.”

HSE stated that the module aligns with existing guidance and aims to improve consistency in how stress risks are assessed and addressed across different sectors.

Six key areas of concern identified in workplace stress

HSE explained that work-related stress often arises when certain aspects of a role are not properly managed. It highlighted six categories where issues typically emerge: demands, control, support, relationships, role and change.

According to the agency, failing to properly manage these six areas can contribute to poor mental health outcomes and workplace dissatisfaction.

The module aims to provide structured guidance to address each of these areas through risk assessment and intervention.

The organisation said the tool has been designed to complement existing HSE guidance and is intended for use across multiple sectors.

Working Minds campaign encourages proactive routine

The new resource complements HSE’s broader Working Minds campaign, which promotes a five-step model to managing workplace stress known as the ‘5Rs’.

According to HSE, these are: Reach out and have conversations, Recognise the signs and causes of stress, Respond to risks by agreeing action points, Reflect on the actions taken and Make it Routine to check in regularly.

The agency said this approach supports early identification and response, helping employers to normalise conversations around mental health and improve long-term wellbeing in the workplace.

Employers can register for the online module via the Working Minds website.

Free HSE tool supports UK stress risk assessments: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive has launched a free online module for assessing work-related stress.

The tool is part of HSE’s Working Minds campaign and was released during Mental Health Awareness Week.

HSE reported that around half of work-related ill health is due to stress, depression or anxiety.

The module offers step-by-step advice, templates and tools for employers.

Kayleigh Roberts from HSE said the tool aims to help small to medium businesses meet legal obligations.

The module outlines how to identify and address six stress-related workplace risks.

The tool follows the Working Minds campaign’s ‘5Rs’ model.

Employers can register for the training through the Working Minds website.

HSE launches consultation on Approved Document A for building structures in England

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsResearchSafety

HSE seeks feedback on structural safety guidance

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a consultation to gather views on the future of Approved Document A, which provides guidance on structural safety regulations in England.

According to CROSS UK, the call for evidence is open until 21 April 2025 and invites responses from individuals and organisations through an online survey or by email.

This consultation is the first step in a broader review process aimed at ensuring the guidance remains effective.

Approved Document A and its role in building regulations

Approved Document A is part of the statutory guidance that supports compliance with the Building Regulations.

It sets out practical methods to meet structural safety requirements, helping developers, engineers, and regulators adhere to national standards.

Building Regulations cover health, safety, security, access, and sustainability aspects of construction.

The Approved Documents provide a framework for ensuring compliance with these legal requirements.

Consultation details and how to participate

The consultation will run for ten weeks from 10 February 2025.

HSE has encouraged stakeholders to respond via an online survey, which facilitates a more efficient analysis of feedback.

Alternatively, responses can be submitted by email or post.

Participants are asked to specify whether they are responding as individuals or on behalf of an organisation, providing relevant contact details for verification.

Geographical scope and next steps

The call for evidence applies to England only, and there is no impact assessment associated with this consultation.

The responses collected will inform future updates to Approved Document A and contribute to the wider review of structural safety guidance.

HSE’s Technical Policy Team is managing the consultation, and further details on submission methods and contact information are available on the HSE website.

HSE launches consultation on Approved Document A for building structures in England: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a consultation on Approved Document A, which provides guidance on structural safety under England’s Building Regulations.

The consultation runs from 10 February to 21 April 2025 and seeks input from industry professionals and the public.

Approved Document A is part of the statutory guidance supporting the Building Regulations, helping to ensure compliance with structural safety requirements.

The consultation is open to responses via an online survey, email, or post.

HSE has encouraged participants to specify whether they are responding as individuals or on behalf of an organisation.

This call for evidence applies only to England and does not include an impact assessment.

The feedback collected will contribute to a broader review of structural safety regulations.

Further details, including submission options and contact information, are available on the HSE website.

Global HSE Group to exhibit fire safety solutions at Intersec 2025 Dubai

by EventsHealth and Safety

Global HSE Group to exhibit at Intersec 2025

Global HSE Group will attend Intersec 2025 from 14th to 16th January at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The company plans to highlight its Global Technical Services division, comprising fire engineers and technical fire consultants who specialise in fire safety engineering, compliance, and fire risk management.

Fire safety solutions tailored for the UAE and Middle East

The team provides fire advisory services throughout the construction process, including fire safety design, fire strategy, technical support, design review, verification, and external wall technical reviews.

Their services aim to support projects in the UAE and Middle East by ensuring compliance with global safety standards.

Intersec 2025 marks a key event for the industry

Intersec 2025 will be the 26th edition of the event, following its 2024 Silver Jubilee.

The previous edition attracted over 47,000 trade buyers from 141 countries, including industry leaders and government officials.

Intersec is a significant platform for showcasing security, safety, and fire protection advancements.

Global HSE Group comments on their participation

Andrew Cooper, Managing Director of Global HSE Group, said: “We’ve looked at exhibiting at Intersec in Dubai for a number of years and felt that 2025 was the right time to take the leap.”

He added: “We have a huge amount of expertise and experience working across a variety of sectors, and our fire engineering services are perfectly suited to the UAE and Middle East to help ensure fire safety compliance.”

Global HSE Group to exhibit fire safety solutions at Intersec 2025 Dubai: summary

Global HSE Group will exhibit at Intersec 2025 in Dubai from 14th to 16th January.

They plan to showcase their Global Technical Services division, offering fire safety engineering, compliance, and fire risk management services.

Intersec 2025 follows a successful 2024 event that drew over 47,000 trade buyers from 141 countries.

Managing Director Andrew Cooper noted the company’s expertise and its suitability for the UAE and Middle Eastern markets.

Health and Safety Executive celebrates 50 years of workplace safety in Great Britain

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

The Health and Safety Executive’s 50-year journey

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the national regulator for health and safety in Great Britain, marked its 50th anniversary on 1 January 2025.

Established by the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, HSE officially launched on 1 January 1975.

Over the past five decades, it has contributed to reducing workplace fatalities and injuries, positioning Great Britain as one of the safest places to work.

According to HSE’s latest statistics, workplace deaths have decreased from 651 in 1974 to 138 in 2023/24.

Current mission and challenges

HSE’s Chief Executive, Sarah Albon, highlighted the ongoing relevance of the organisation’s mission despite changes in workplace practices over the years.

Sarah said: “We’re proud of our successes over the last five decades, but the fact remains that any work-related death is a tragedy, and there are still far too many workers suffering ill-health brought about by work activity.”

In 2022, HSE introduced its 10-year strategy, Protecting People and Places, which aims to tackle emerging challenges and extend its responsibilities.

Evolving responsibilities of HSE

The scope of HSE’s work has expanded beyond worker safety to include public safety and regulatory roles.

Recent duties include acting as the Building Safety Regulator and managing chemical regulations following Brexit.

Sarah noted: “It is hard to foresee what the world of work will look like in the next 50 years but as ever, our fundamental principle will continue to be to make sure that those who create risk, take responsibility for controlling risk.”

Government recognition of HSE’s impact

Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, commended HSE’s contributions: “Over the last half-century this organisation has been at the heart of efforts to protect people and places across Britain. I would like to thank them for this vital work.”

He added that HSE’s mission aligns with ongoing initiatives such as the Get Britain Working White Paper and efforts to strengthen worker protections.

Health and Safety Executive celebrates 50 years of workplace safety in Great Britain: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) celebrated its 50th anniversary on 1 January 2025.

Founded under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, the organisation has played a crucial role in reducing workplace fatalities from 651 in 1974 to 138 in 2023/24.

Chief Executive Sarah Albon highlighted HSE’s ongoing commitment to improving workplace safety and addressing emerging challenges, including public safety and chemical regulation.

Minister Sir Stephen Timms praised the organisation’s contributions to protecting workers and supporting government initiatives.

HSE reveals UK workplace injury and ill health data for 2023/24

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearch

Work-related ill health statistics from HSE

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released its annual report detailing workplace injury and ill health statistics for 2023/24.

According to the report, 1.7 million workers experienced work-related ill health during this period.

This figure is similar to the 1.8 million reported in 2022/23.

Half of these cases were attributed to stress, depression, or anxiety, totalling approximately 776,000 cases.

The report noted a decline in work-related stress, depression, or anxiety cases from 910,000 in 2022/23.

However, the current rate remains higher than pre-pandemic levels recorded in 2018/19.

Economic and productivity impact

Workplace injuries and ill health caused substantial productivity losses in 2023/24.

An estimated 33.7 million working days were lost due to self-reported work-related injuries or illnesses.

The HSE report highlighted the broader economic implications, noting that workplace injuries and new cases of ill health cost the economy £21.6 billion in 2022/23.

This represents a decrease of £1.6 billion compared to the previous year.

Workplace injuries and fatalities

The statistics also cover work-related injuries and fatalities in 2023/24.

During this period, 138 workers were fatally injured in workplace accidents.

Additionally, 604,000 workers reported non-fatal injuries sustained at work.

HSE’s chief executive Sarah Albon reflected on the progress made in workplace safety: “This year marks 50 years since the legislation which established HSE was passed.

Much has been achieved in that time, including a dramatic reduction of around 85 per cent in the numbers of employee fatal injuries in the workplace.”

HSE’s commitment to workplace safety

The HSE emphasised the importance of maintaining progress while addressing ongoing challenges.

Albon added: “Today, Great Britain is one of the safest places in the world to work but these statistics serve as a reminder that there is still room for further improvement, and we remain committed to ensuring people remain safe and healthy wherever work is taking place.”

The report demonstrates the HSE’s ongoing focus on improving health and safety outcomes across Britain’s workplaces.

HSE reveals UK workplace injury and ill health data for 2023/24: Summary

The Health and Safety Executive has released its 2023/24 workplace injury and ill health report.

The data shows that 1.7 million workers experienced work-related ill health, with stress, depression, or anxiety accounting for 776,000 cases.

These conditions have decreased compared to the previous year but remain above pre-pandemic levels.

The report revealed 33.7 million working days were lost due to ill health or injury.

Additionally, 138 workers died in work-related accidents, and 604,000 experienced non-fatal injuries.

The economic cost of these incidents reached £21.6 billion in 2022/23, a reduction from the previous year.

HSE’s chief executive Sarah Albon noted the organisation’s progress over 50 years while reaffirming its commitment to further improving workplace safety in Britain.

Health and Safety Executive plans to inspect fire services on cancer prevention measures

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsHealth and SafetyPPE

HSE to begin inspections of fire services for carcinogen protection

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced plans to inspect fire and rescue services to assess measures taken to protect firefighters from carcinogens.

As reported by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), these inspections will evaluate procedures from on-scene precautions to the cleaning of personal protective equipment (PPE) and contaminated workwear.

The HSE plans to publish the inspection standards in April 2025, following fact-finding visits and research commissioned by the FBU.

Professor Anna Stec of the University of Central Lancashire conducted this research on contaminants.

Background and impetus for the new inspections

The initiative follows the World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classifying firefighting as a carcinogenic occupation.

This classification highlights the urgent need for protective measures against occupational cancers among firefighters.

The FBU has been advocating for better protection against contaminants and occupational cancers for a long time.

Their DECON campaign demands regular health monitoring and legislation to support and compensate firefighters diagnosed with cancer.

FBU’s response to the HSE initiative

Riccardo la Torre, Fire Brigades Union national officer, commented on the HSE’s plans: “The Fire Brigades Union welcomes plans to inspect fire and rescue services for measures taken to protect firefighters from cancer and disease-causing contaminants.

“Reducing and eliminating firefighters’ exposure to these contaminants is crucial for preventing occupational cancers.

“Proper regulation would be a significant step forwards, with the potential to save lives.

“We will be monitoring the development of this initiative closely and await further details from the HSE.”

La Torre emphasised the FBU’s ongoing commitment to securing urgent action to prevent firefighter cancers, advocating for early disease detection through health monitoring and compensation for affected firefighters.

Research informing the new inspection standards

The research informing the new HSE inspection standards was carried out by Professor Anna Stec and commissioned by the FBU.

This research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the contaminants firefighters are exposed to and the best practices for mitigating these risks.

IFSJ comment

The HSE’s initiative to inspect fire services for carcinogen protection aligns with the growing recognition of the occupational hazards firefighters face, particularly exposure to carcinogens.

The planned inspections will likely drive improvements in safety protocols and protective measures within fire services.

The forthcoming inspection standards, informed by rigorous research and real-world observations, will be critical in setting a benchmark for fire services.

UK REACH seeks evidence on PFAS in firefighting foams

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionSafety

HSE calls for stakeholder engagement on PFAS risks

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a public consultation to collect data and evidence regarding firefighting foams containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

This initiative began on 4 April 2024 and is set to close on 3 June 2024.

The consultation seeks to understand the usage, manufacturing processes, and potential alternatives to PFAS in firefighting foams, particularly focusing on their impact on human health and the environment in Great Britain.

In an effort to gather comprehensive insights, HSE is reaching out to stakeholders such as manufacturers, importers, distributors, professional users, and environmental organisations.

They are encouraged to participate actively in the consultation process and provide valuable data and references.

HSE aims to use this evidence to support the development of a restriction report under UK REACH regulations.

Understanding PFAS and the need for regulation

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.

In response to these concerns, the HSE, following a request from the Defra Secretary of State and supported by the Scottish and Welsh Governments, is preparing an Annex 15 restriction dossier.

This dossier will assess the risks associated with PFAS in firefighting foams and consider the necessity of regulatory restrictions in Great Britain.

The consultation is part of a broader effort to evaluate and mitigate the environmental and health impacts of PFAS.

This includes studying their persistence, mobility, potential for widespread environmental dispersion, and uncertain long-term effects.

How to participate in the consultation

Stakeholders interested in contributing to the consultation can submit their evidence and comments through an online survey provided by HSE.

Detailed submissions can be attached as documents at the end of the survey.

It is important for participants to indicate whether they consent to further contact from HSE, as additional information may be required.

The process aims to engage various stakeholders in a comprehensive dialogue to ensure that the upcoming regulations are well-informed and effectively address the concerns related to PFAS use in firefighting foams.

IFSJ comment

The HSE’s initiative to gather evidence on the use of PFAS in firefighting foams represents a critical step towards understanding and mitigating the environmental and health risks associated with these substances.

By engaging stakeholders and collecting detailed evidence, HSE is laying the groundwork for informed policy decisions that could lead to significant changes in the regulation of firefighting foams in the UK.

This proactive approach is essential for protecting public health and the environment from the potential harms posed by PFAS.