Safeguarding site operations: The training academy powering Red Sea Global’s safety culture

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsTraining

John Dunne, Group Head of Health & Safety at Red Sea Global, explains how the Academy develops capability and supports consistent training across major projects

Red Sea Global (RSG), the visionary developer behind the world-renowned regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has made history with the opening of its Health & Safety (H&S) Training Academy.

The Academy, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, has already trained over 19,550 contractor workers to date, setting a new national benchmark in construction and operational safety.

Cultural shift through structured learning

Far more than a facility, the Academy acts as a catalyst for cultural transformation, designed to empower workers, instil confidence, and ensure that every person on-site returns home safely.

Through a combination of theoretical instruction, practical hands-on training, and multi-language delivery, RSG has created a model that ensures safety knowledge is accessible, actionable, and universal.

RSG is also an approved learning partner of leading global awarding bodies in health and safety, including the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), Highfield International, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

This recognition reflects RSG’s commitment to delivering internationally accredited training that meets the highest standards.

Through these partnerships, the Academy currently offers 13 health and food safety courses from Highfield International, four courses from NEBOSH, including the NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (IGC), alongside two IOSH programmes and one RoSPA-certified course.

Recognition for training achievements

Red Sea Global (RSG), the visionary developer behind the world-renowned regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has made history with the opening of its Health & Safety (H&S) Training Academy.

The Academy, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, has already trained over 19,550 contractor workers to date, setting a new national benchmark in construction and operational safety.

Building on this strong foundation, RSG’s Health & Safety Training Centre was previously recognised by Highfield International as the ‘Top Centre’ for the month, an incredible milestone achieved through the successful delivery of the ‘Highfield Level 2 International Award in Food Safety’.

This prestigious honour reflects the dedication, expertise, and commitment of our Health & Safety and Food Safety team in upholding the highest standards of training.

This latest milestone follows an earlier achievement when RSG received the ‘Centre of Excellence Award’ from Highfield International.

Together, these recognitions highlight the Group’s unwavering focus on providing world-class training and ensuring that safety ‘in all its forms’ remains a top priority across every aspect of our operations.

Our commitment to excellence has also been recognised on the global stage.

RSG was previously honoured with the prestigious International Safety Award from the British Safety Council, earning Distinction status in recognition of our exceptional efforts to safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of our people and workplaces in the construction sector.

The delivery of comprehensive H&S training was one of the key components in achieving this success, with our Group application achieving an outstanding score of 50 out of 55, placing us among the top performers worldwide.

The International Safety Awards celebrate organisations across the globe that demonstrate consistent dedication to preventing workplace injuries, reducing work-related illnesses, and promoting overall employee well-being.

This year, 874 applications were submitted, with only 212 organisations achieving Distinction status for 2025.

RSG proudly stands among this elite group, further reinforcing our reputation as a leader in health and safety excellence.

John Dunne, Group Head of Health & Safety at RSG, said: “As our first dedicated training centre, the RSG Health & Safety Training Academy is designed to empower our partners and contractors with enhanced construction and safety practices.

By ensuring exemplary safety protocols across all RSG’s developments, the academy aims to become the benchmark institution for health & safety training for Saudi Arabia and beyond.”

Programmes designed for diverse teams

The Academy offers critical safety programmes, currently covering 12 key topics in health & safety, such as Defensive Driving, First Aid at Work, Flagman Training, PPE usage, Hand and Power Tools, Work at Height, and more.

To accommodate RSG’s diverse workforce, courses are offered in English, Urdu, and Hindi, ensuring accessibility for all workers regardless of language barriers.

To further enhance the learning experience, RSG has partnered with an external provider to enhance training materials, making them more visual, simplified, and engaging using animations and videos that improve learner participation.

Practical, hands-on sessions in dedicated outdoor training areas allow workers to apply concepts in real-world conditions, translating learning into life-saving behaviour.

In addition, Red Sea Global is exploring new technological innovations to elevate the learning experience.

By incorporating Virtual Reality (VR) and other immersive learning solutions into its training programmes, the Academy aims to provide workers with highly engaging, realistic scenarios that strengthen understanding and retention of critical safety practices.

The H&S Training Academy is redefining how safety is perceived.

No longer a compliance requirement, safety is now a shared responsibility and core value embedded into every task and interaction.

Safety starts with knowledge – and at RSG, it’s now a reality for thousands of workers every day.

“Every worker, supervisor, and partner trained here becomes an ambassador for safety, creating a ripple effect across all RSG projects,” added Dunne.

Collaboration strengthening on-site practice

By including partners and contractors, the Academy ensures consistent standards, collaboration, and mutual accountability on all sites – a model that strengthens both operational efficiency and workforce well-being.

RSG’s H&S Training Academy is a long-term investment in people, culture, and operational excellence.

The Academy will continue to expand its programmes, incorporate emerging technologies, and ensure that future generations inherit a robust culture of safety.

“Our ambition is clear: every worker leaves our sites safe, skilled, and confident,” said Dunne.

“This Academy is the foundation of a safer, smarter, and more empowered workforce for decades to come.”

The opening of RSG’s H&S Training Academy is a defining moment in the company’s journey.

Thousands of workers trained, multiple languages addressed, and a culture of safety instilled – the Academy is a beacon of knowledge, empowerment, and life-saving skills.

As the sun sets over the pristine shores of The Red Sea and AMAALA destinations, the true light of this Academy shines through the confidence, knowledge, and safety-conscious mindset carried by every worker across RSG’s destinations.

This was originally published in the January 2026 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Road safety charter pilot prompts IOSH call for employer action

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

IOSH calls for employer action over road safety

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has called on employers to take action to prevent work-related road traffic incidents, as a new UK charter is being piloted to set a national standard for organisations that require people to drive or ride for work.

The organisation linked the call to the National Work Related Road Safety Charter pilot, which it said covers employers whose staff use HGVs, vans, cars, motorcycles, e cycles and cycles.

IOSH said the pilot forms part of measures in the Government’s new road safety strategy.

It said the strategy aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by 65% by 2035.

Charter pilot sets national standards

The charter is designed to help organisations in the public and private sectors reduce work related road risk, IOSH said.

It said the charter promotes good practice, clear accountability and compliance with existing legislation.

IOSH said employer leadership is essential to reduce work related road harm.

It said this requires work-related road risk to be embedded in health and safety management systems and risk assessments.

IOSH points to fatality estimate

IOSH said an estimated one in three road traffic fatalities involve someone travelling for work purposes.

The organisation said this estimate means businesses should do more to manage work-related road risk.

IOSH said it welcomed the charter pilot.

It added that it wants work-related road traffic incidents included as a reporting requirement under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).

Policy lead sets out expectations

Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, said: “Work shouldn’t cost lives.

“As part of health and safety law, employers have a clear legal and moral duty of care that extends beyond the physical workplace, and covers all work activities – including driving and riding for work.

“It includes driving your own vehicle when using it for business, and it can include commuting to and from work if you are travelling to a location that is not your normal place of work.

“Preventing harm and protecting people on the road is part of protecting people at work — and business leaders must act now.

“The Charter is a decisive step forward.

“It sets expectations for board level oversight, competent risk management, and robust controls across all vehicle types — from HGVs and vans to motorcycles, e cycles and cycles.

“Good practice must be non negotiable: fit for purpose and safe vehicles; safe scheduling that eliminates fatigue and allows enough time for a safe journey; competent, fit and capable drivers and riders; zero tolerance for distraction and impairment; and data driven monitoring of incidents and near misses.

“Compliance with the law is the floor, not the ceiling.”

Controls and alternatives highlighted

IOSH said managers should consider alternatives to driving, such as train travel or video- and tele-conferencing.

It said organisations should have arrangements for drivers and riders to report incidents and near misses.

IOSH said this is intended to support learning and action to prevent reocurrence.

IOSH highlights economic pressure on UK farms as safety risk

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

UK farmers under strain amid safety concerns

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has reported that economic challenges in UK agriculture are contributing to continued health and safety risks, particularly as farmers take on longer hours and delay risk assessments.

This update was delivered during an IOSH webinar held as part of 2025 Farm Safety Week, chaired by IOSH President-Elect Richard Bate.

According to IOSH, the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector continues to record the highest fatality rate of any UK industry, despite comprising only one percent of the workforce.

IOSH said that in 2023/24 alone, 11,000 serious injuries were recorded, and the sector accounted for 20 percent of all workplace deaths.

Richard Bate said: “The need for collaborative, meaningful conversations and change on farm safety has rarely been more urgent.”

Rising operational costs impact risk management

Webinar panellist Olivia Barrett, a risk management consultant at NFU Mutual, said rising input costs were placing increased pressure on farmers.

She said that costs related to animal feed, fuel, power and straw had risen from 38 percent to 50 percent of total farm expenditure.

She explained that competitive market conditions have prevented farmers from passing on these costs through product pricing.

Barrett stated that these financial burdens are leading to operational compromises that can impact health and safety practice.

Other panellists echoed this concern, pointing to risk-prone working conditions becoming more common.

Workforce fatigue and mental health risks

Mike Whiting, a farming consultant and chair of the IOSH Rural Industries Group, warned that workforce cuts are causing longer hours for remaining staff.

Whiting said: “This has forced many farm workers into working even longer hours, causing fatigue.”

He explained that tiredness among farm staff has increased the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Whiting also highlighted wider implications including isolation, loneliness and mental health strain.

He linked these pressures to labour shortages, rising taxation, and employers’ national insurance obligations.

Diversification shifts attention from safety

Panellists said that many farmers are now generating more income through tourism and leisure than through traditional farming.

Alex Phillimore of the Farming Community Network said: “Farming, what farmers are passionate about and is in their blood, isn’t paying the bills anymore.”

He said examples include glamping and on-site food services, which require different safety considerations.

Phillimore added: “Health and safety may not always be front of mind because it’s not their priority.”

He warned that mental health and injury prevention are becoming marginalised topics in farm management conversations.

Fatalities linked to ATVs prompt training support

The Health and Safety Executive has reported that seven workplace fatalities in agriculture, forestry and fishing in 2024/25 involved all-terrain vehicles, including two children.

The Farm Safety Foundation, also known as Yellow Wellies, has launched a partnership with Lantra to offer fully funded ATV safety training.

The bursary is available to 100 UK farmers for accredited training programmes focused on proper use of these vehicles.

Stephanie Berkeley, who leads the Farm Safety Foundation, said the initiative is part of wider educational outreach aimed at improving safety attitudes among young farmers.

Berkeley said: “It’s just those gentle reminders that are needed, including telling the farmers that they themselves really matter.”

IOSH highlights economic pressure on UK farms as safety risk: Summary

IOSH hosted a webinar during Farm Safety Week 2025 on the state of risk in UK agriculture.

The sector continues to record the highest fatality rate of all UK industries.

Agriculture accounts for one percent of the workforce but 20 percent of all work-related deaths.

In 2023/24, 11,000 serious injuries were recorded on UK farms.

Rising costs are impacting safety practices, according to NFU Mutual.

Farmers are increasingly working longer hours, causing fatigue and higher risk.

Farming Community Network said financial pressure is pushing farmers into tourism and leisure.

Health and safety is not always prioritised as farmers diversify their businesses.

Seven deaths in 2024/25 were linked to all-terrain vehicles, including children.

Yellow Wellies and Lantra have launched a training bursary for safer ATV use.

IOSH appoints new Chair and four trustees to its Board

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPeople

IOSH confirms leadership changes with UK-based Chair appointment

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has announced that Ruth Boumphrey will become Chair of its Board of Trustees on 27 May 2025.

Boumphrey currently serves as Chief Executive of Lloyd’s Register Foundation and brings experience in research, development and regulation.

She will succeed Bobby Chakravarthy, who has acted as interim Chair since Professor Peter Bonfield stepped down in 2024 to take up a UK Government appointment.

Boumphrey holds additional roles as a Non-executive Director of the UK Government’s Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (Cefas) and as a Commissioner for the National Preparedness Commission.

She said: “I’m delighted to be the next Chair of IOSH’s Board of Trustees, and look forward to working with IOSH and its members around the world in delivering its vision of a safe and healthy world of work.

“This vision is very close to my heart and aligns with our mission at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, so I hope to bring and share knowledge, networks and insights that help amplify IOSH’s impact globally.”

IOSH adds four new trustees to Board

Alongside the appointment of Boumphrey as Chair, four new trustees have also joined the IOSH Board.

Arlette Anderson and Sonia Whiteley have been named as member trustees, while David Auger and Stuart Stockley take up positions as independent trustees.

Anderson is a Chartered Fellow of IOSH and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment. Her previous work has focused on cultural change in multinational organisations. She has served on IOSH’s Performance and Development Committee.

Whiteley, also a Chartered IOSH Fellow, is Vice-Chair of the Essex Branch. She has over 20 years’ experience in occupational safety and health and is currently Head of Health and Safety at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

Independent trustees bring business and industry experience

David Auger joins the Board as an independent trustee following a 35-year career in finance.

He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and has held senior roles in manufacturing companies. His previous posts include Chief Finance Officer and Board Advisor to a global shipping group.

Stuart Stockley also joins as an independent trustee. He has over 20 years of experience in senior positions within the building materials industry across the UK and Europe.

His background includes work in commercial, operational, sales and marketing, category management and e-commerce roles.

Board transition marks the end of current trustees’ terms

The announcement also marks the conclusion of terms for three long-serving trustees: Simon Hatson, John Green and David Blower.

IOSH extended its thanks to the departing members, as well as to Bobby Chakravarthy for his service as interim Chair.

Chakravarthy will remain on the Board as an independent trustee once Boumphrey assumes the role of Chair.

IOSH addresses gender-specific workplace safety issues

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPPE

IOSH examines PPE fit issues for women

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has published a blog on International Women’s Day, outlining the challenges women continue to face in workplace safety.

Olivia Barrett, TechIOSH and a health and safety consultant, highlighted ongoing concerns such as ill-fitting personal protective equipment (PPE), physical strain in manual handling tasks, and gender bias in health and safety policies.

Barrett noted that PPE such as helmets, gloves, boots, and body armour has traditionally been designed for men.

This results in women having to use equipment that is either too large or too small, which can compromise both comfort and safety.

Ill-fitting PPE increases the risk of injuries, including strains and accidents caused by discomfort.

She suggested that manufacturers and employers prioritise the development of PPE tailored for women, considering differences in body shape, weight distribution, and size.

Expanding the range of available PPE sizes and designs would ensure all workers have access to properly fitting safety equipment.

Physical demands and manual handling concerns

Manual handling tasks often do not account for physical differences between men and women, according to Barrett.

Jobs requiring heavy lifting or prolonged standing may assume uniform physical capability among all workers, placing women at greater risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

She highlighted that in sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing, women may be required to lift heavy equipment or patients without adequate support.

This increases the likelihood of back, neck, and joint injuries, especially when workplaces do not provide appropriate ergonomic solutions.

To address these risks, Barrett recommended that employers assess the physical demands of tasks and implement adjustments where necessary.

This could include mechanical lifting aids, ergonomic training, and workspaces designed to accommodate a diverse workforce.

Gender bias in workplace health and safety policies

Barrett also pointed to gender bias in workplace health and safety policies.

She noted that many policies have been shaped by male-dominated workplaces and often fail to address health concerns unique to women, such as reproductive health risks and the effects of menopause.

She explained that some workplaces do not provide adequate guidance on managing risks related to pregnancy, exposure to hazardous chemicals, or menstruation-related discomfort.

Additionally, a lack of awareness and support can leave women without clear protocols for addressing gender-specific health concerns.

Barrett called for more inclusive health and safety training and policies that recognise these issues.

She emphasised the importance of creating safety programmes that reflect workforce diversity and provide clear procedures for managing gender-specific health risks.

Addressing harassment and underrepresentation in leadership

IOSH’s blog also highlighted the impact of workplace harassment on women’s safety.

Barrett noted that women in male-dominated industries often experience higher rates of harassment, discrimination, and bullying.

She stated that these issues contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout, affecting both mental health and job performance.

She recommended that employers establish clear anti-harassment policies, promote a culture of respect, and provide mental health support services.

Creating a work environment where employees feel safe and supported would help mitigate these challenges.

Another issue raised was the underrepresentation of women in safety leadership roles.

Barrett noted that decision-making positions in workplace safety are still largely male-dominated, which can result in policies that overlook or dismiss women’s concerns.

To improve representation, she suggested that companies encourage and support women in safety leadership roles through mentorship programmes, career development initiatives, and gender diversity in hiring.

Ensuring women’s involvement in safety decision-making would contribute to more comprehensive workplace policies.

IOSH addresses gender-specific workplace safety issues: Summary

IOSH has published a blog to mark International Women’s Day, discussing workplace safety challenges affecting women.

Health and safety consultant Olivia Barrett highlighted concerns including ill-fitting PPE, manual handling risks, gender bias in safety policies, workplace harassment, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.

Barrett noted that PPE is often designed for men, leaving women with improperly fitting safety gear that can lead to injuries.

She also pointed out that manual handling tasks frequently fail to account for physical differences, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal strain.

Gender bias in workplace policies was another issue raised, with Barrett stating that many safety protocols do not address reproductive health risks or other gender-specific concerns.

She also highlighted the impact of workplace harassment and the need for clear anti-harassment policies.

IOSH called for manufacturers, employers, and industry leaders to address these challenges by developing inclusive policies, improving access to properly fitting PPE, and promoting female representation in safety leadership roles.

IOSH expert discusses effective approaches to influence management on safety

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Overview of IOSH expert Peter Mugi’s opinion piece

Peter Mugi CertIOSH, a member of IOSH’s future leaders steering group, has published an opinion piece on securing support for workplace health and safety.

He shares his strategies and experiences in persuading management to embrace health and safety changes.

Mugi highlights the challenges of gaining management support, emphasizing that it involves not just identifying necessary changes but also persuading management to implement them.

His approach includes persistence, clear communication, and strategic insights to influence management effectively.

Case study on overcoming resistance

In his opinion piece, Mugi recalls working with a company resistant to holding regular health and safety meetings due to time constraints.

This resistance led to neglected fire drills, overlooked subcontractor audits, and misaligned safety practices.

Mugi used a pre-qualification questionnaire to show the company’s deficiencies and how these gaps could affect new business opportunities and the bottom line.

By demonstrating that regular health and safety meetings were not a drain on time but a long-term time-saving measure, Mugi successfully shifted the conversation to focus on business benefits.

His persistence resulted in completed fire drills, updated audits, and improved safety standards.

Lessons and practical solutions for safety professionals

Mugi shares valuable lessons from his experience, emphasizing the need to frame health and safety improvements in terms of business benefits.

He advises showing gradual progress and focusing on critical areas for immediate improvement to build trust and demonstrate that changes are manageable and impactful.

He also underscores the importance of consulting with other safety and health professionals to gain insights and share experiences.

Engaging with IOSH groups or branches can provide valuable support and guidance tailored to specific challenges.

Strategies for influencing management on health and safety

Mugi concludes that influencing management to adopt health and safety changes is a dynamic process requiring persistence, strategic communication, and practical solutions.

By understanding management’s concerns, presenting clear benefits, and demonstrating real progress, health and safety professionals can turn resistance into support.

Mugi stated: “By understanding management’s concerns, presenting clear benefits, and demonstrating real progress, health and safety professionals can turn resistance into support.”

IOSH expert discusses effective approaches to influence management on safety: Summary

Peter Mugi’s opinion piece, published by IOSH, outlines strategies for securing management support for workplace health and safety.

Mugi emphasizes persistence, clear communication, and strategic insights to influence management effectively.

He shares a case study where he overcame resistance by demonstrating business benefits and showing gradual progress.

Mugi also highlights the importance of consulting with fellow safety professionals for tailored guidance.

His insights provide valuable guidance for health and safety professionals aiming to turn management resistance into support.

UK government must prioritise workplace safety, says IOSH

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

IOSH calls for stronger workplace health and safety standards

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

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

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

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

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

The economic impact of workplace injuries and ill health

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

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

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

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

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

Addressing new and emerging workplace hazards

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

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

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

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

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

Construction industry sees increase in fatalities in 2023-24

by ConstructionFeatured NewsHealth and Safety

New figures reveal rising deaths in UK construction

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

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

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

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

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

Fatality rates across industries

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calls for improved safety measures

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mesothelioma deaths reported

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

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

Occupational Safety and Health: UK election focus

by Featured NewsHealth and Safety

Commitments to safe and healthy work

As reported by IOSH, the Conservative and Labour parties have outlined their positions on occupational safety and health (OSH) in their manifestos for the upcoming UK General Election.

The Labour Party’s manifesto, “Make Work Pay: Delivering a New Deal for Working People,” emphasises the need for safer workplaces.

It proposes a thorough review and modernisation of current health and safety guidelines and regulations to ensure they reflect the modern workplace.

The manifesto highlights risks such as working in high temperatures, physically demanding and sedentary roles, and proposes the introduction of a “right to switch off” to promote healthier working practices, especially for remote workers.

The Conservative Party focuses on broader labour and human rights issues relevant to OSH, with a strong commitment to ending modern slavery and human trafficking.

Labour and human rights issues in Occupational Safety and Health

The Conservative manifesto addresses concerns around modern slavery and proposes measures to combat it.

They pledge to end human trafficking and modern slavery, emphasising these as key priorities.

Labour, on the other hand, commits to strengthening protections for whistleblowers, particularly regarding sexual harassment at work.

They also focus on modernising trade unions, emphasising the benefits of unions and their role in protecting workers’ rights.

The Conservatives have criticised Labour’s trade union proposals, stating: “We will never introduce Labour’s package of French-style union rules, which are a threat to jobs, our competitiveness and our economy.”

Public safety disasters and legal reforms

Both parties have expressed a commitment to implementing “Martyn’s Law” or the “Protect Duty,” in response to the Manchester Arena bombing.

This legislation aims to ensure that premises are better prepared for terrorist attacks and take proportionate steps to mitigate risks.

Labour has also indicated that it would introduce a “Hillsborough Law” if elected.

This law would place a legal duty of candour on public servants and authorities and provide legal aid for victims of disasters or state-related deaths.

Future regulatory approaches

Reflecting on the IOSH manifesto, there are notable omissions in both parties’ documents regarding the role of the Health and Safety Executive.

A broader review of regulatory approaches is expected if either party comes to power.

Additionally, the safety of gig workers is not explicitly addressed, although Labour’s focus on worker rights suggests potential future measures.

Both parties prioritise economic stability and job security, which are expected to influence their approach to sustainable and healthy work environments.

If Labour is elected, any comprehensive legislative review of health, safety, and worker rights may take time to materialise in practice.

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.