HSfB Site News - Health and Safety for Beginners: March 2006

Thursday, March 30, 2006

30 March 2006 - Glasgow Hospitals Introduce iPOD Software Training

iPOD Voicemap Software, developed in Australia, has been introduced into two of Glasgow's top hospitals, to assist in the training of new recruits.

The two hospitals using the MP3 players are Glasgow's Royal Infirmary and Labour ward and Neonatal unit at the Princess Royal Maternity Hospital.

The iPOD training technology provides new recruits with an audio induction to the workplace, followed by a computer-based knowledge test.

The introduction of the iPOD trainer has been welcomed by Hospital Managers at the NHS Greater Glasgow, who say the iPOD tours can be used to assist in the following areas:

Workplace safety.
Infection control.
Coping with violence.

Training and Development Manager at NHS Greater Glasgow, Alastair Kirk,said:

"Using technology means we can make sure all new staff are trained to exactly the same standard.

"That is a big improvement on a system that relies on other staff and can therefore be vulnerable to human error. Staff find this a very enjoyable way to train and they start their job with more confidence"

The new training technology is soon to be introduced in the Western Infirmary's Accident and Emergency Department, with other health authorities in the UK and Europe also expressing an interest in the Voicemap software.

Article by Alexandra Johnston

30 March 2006 - Law Society Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Lawyers

The Law Society of England and Wales, the professional body for solicitors, have sent out a warning to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), that "it is only a matter of time" before a serious injury occurs if solicitors have to continue interviewing potentially violent or abusive suspects alone in locked cells or rooms.

The Society say this practice is an ever increasing trend amongst the police force and call for urgent action from the HSE.

The Criminal Law Solicitors Association (CLSA) have already uncovered evidence of this dangerous practice at 16 police stations in England and Wales.

It is pointed out by the Law Society, that the police must be "educated about their responsibilities" and gave the following examples of the types of harassments duty solicitors encounter:

A woman duty solicitor was locked in with a convicted rapist.
In another case a suspect exposed himself.
One male solicitor was spat at by a suspect he was trying to help.

Commenting on their findings, Kevin Martin, Law Society President, said:

”The police are being cavalier with the safety of duty solicitors by locking them in interview rooms with unknown and potentially dangerous suspects.

"The police arrest violent suspects with handcuffs but some officers are leaving solicitors locked in interview rooms with them. It is not always clear when suspects could become violent, particularly if they suffer mental health problems or from the effects of drug abuse.

"The police must be educated about their responsibilities.”

Ian Kelcey, CLSA Chairman, commented:

”It is time for the Association of Chief Police Officers and the Home Office to issue a directive that to lock solicitors into interview rooms with clients is totally inappropriate.

"The facilities in many interview rooms at police stations are woefully inadequate. The panic button in some rooms is too high on the wall and the police response to panic buttons can be appalling.”

Further information on work-related violence can be accessed from the HSE webpage, by clicking the following:

Work related violence

Article by Alexandra Johnston

28 March 2006 - 14 Years Jail for Cockle Picker Tragedy

Mr. Justice Henriques has today (Tuesday), imposed a 14 years prison sentence upon Gangmaster Lin Liang Ren, following the manslaughter of 21 cockle pickers (plus 2 never found), who tragically died at Morcambe Bay on 5 February 2004.

12 years was for the manslaughter charges, 6 years for the facilitation charges to run concurrently, with a further 2 years for conspiracy to pervert the course of justice to run consecutively.

The facilitation conviction of the gangmaster's girlfriend, Zhao Xiao Qing also received a custodial sentence of 2 years and 9 months, whilst the cousin, Lin Mu Yong, was sentenced to 4 years and 9 months.

A decision will have to be taken by the Home Office as to whether deportation should take place when all three's sentence has been served.

Passing sentence, Mr Justice Henriques said Lin Liang Ren had:

"cynically and callously" exploited his countrymen and women and provided them with dreadful living conditions.
The gangmaster had been motivated by avarice and displayed little regard for the safety of the cocklers.
He had told a series of "spectacular lies" to authorities in a bid to evade justice and displayed complete indifference to the fate of the victims.
He had attempted to blame everyone but himself for the deaths of the illegal Chinese workers.

In a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) press release on 24 March 2006, the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) took the opportunity to "re-empahsise the importance of worker protection imposed by health and safety legislation" and Bill Callaghan, HSE Chair commented by saying:

“The successful prosecution can never compensate for the tragic loss of 23 lives. Nevertheless, today’s verdict (24 March) highlights the need to ensure sensible health and safety arrangements are in place for all workers in Britain, whatever their nationality or migrant status.

“The Health and Safety Executive has already commissioned further work in order to get a clearer picture of where migrants are working and the sorts of jobs they do, as the next stage in finding out whether they are at greater risk of injury or ill-health than other workers. That report will be available later this year.

“At Morecambe Bay, the risks to regular cocklers have been considerably reduced. While it remains a hazardous place, those who follow the guidelines should be able to work without serious risk.”

An account of the tragic incident on 5 February 2004 can be read in the HSE's press release and can be accessed by clicking the following:

Cocklers tragedy highlights need for high safety standards

Article by Alexandra Johnston

28 March 2006 - HSE Seek Your Views Prior to Advising DTI

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have been asked for advice by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on "the potential role of pre-licensing assessments of candidate designs of nuclear power stations."

Prior to submitting their advice to the DTI, the HSE would like your views on HSE's thoughts, as they review their strategy for regulation of nuclear power stations.

The HSE stress this is not a consultation request. It is about HSE's "approach to regulating design of nuclear power stations, if asked to do so."

Issues examined in the discussion document are as follows:

Whether the current licensing process is sufficiently transparent.
If any features of overseas regulatory regimes offer the UK benefits.
The extent to which HSE should give credit to safety assessments undertaken by overseas nuclear regulators.
It identifies areas where HSE would welcome views and poses a series of questions.

The HSE would like your comments to be submitted by 28 April, 2006.

The discussion document and all other information relating to this matter can be accessed from the HSE's Webpage by clicking the following:

HSE review of the pre-licensing process for potential new build of nuclear power stations

Article by Alexandra Johnston

27 March 2006 - New Control of Noise Regulations Reminder to Employers

With just over a week until the new Control of Noise Regulations come into force on 6 April, 2006, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have been campaigning to remind employers what their duties will be under the new Regulations.

The HSE's campaign is aimed at reminding employers of the following:

Prolonged exposure to noise at work can cause hearing loss, which is often permanent. Hearing loss caused by work is preventable, but once your hearing has gone, it won’t come back.
The HSE is working in partnership with businesses to find practical solutions to noise risks at work, to help protect everyone’s hearing. Noise solutions can often be surprisingly cost-effective and easy to implement.
Business benefits include lower sickness absence, lower staff turnover, improved productivity and safety, enhanced reputation, and lower risk of legal action.

A Noise at Work HSE Webpage is available, providing all the necessary information and guidance to help employers understand, prepare and implement any requirements, which may be necessary to comply with the new Regulations, such as the following:

The health effects of noise at work.
What to do if you have a noise problem at work.
How is noise measured.
Advice to workers.
Cost effective solutions to noise for employers.

There are approximately 170,000 workers in the UK who suffer deafness, tinnitus and other ear conditions caused by harmful noise levels in the workplace. With the introduction of the new Control of Noise Regulations on 6 April, 2006, the HSE is aiming to reduce this figure greatly.

Further information can be accessed from the HSE Webpage by clicking the following:

HSE Noise at Work Webpage

Further information on noise at work can also be accessed from our HSfB Your Articles page by clicking the following:

HSfB Noise at Work

Article by Alexandra Johnston

27 March 2006 - HSE's Watch Out For Your Bin Man Initiative

An initiative, "Watch out for your bin man", launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), aims at reducing the number of injuries to waste collection workers, by calling upon the assistance of householders.

71,000 information leaflets have been distributed to Leicestershire households highlighting three simple steps householders can take to help prevent injuries of their waste collection workers.

The three main steps are as follows:

Never over-load your waste and recycling bin.
Drive safely and with caution around your waste and recycling collection workers' lorry.
Keep all areas clear of obstacles and anything they could slip on.

The information sheet also includes "Watch your back" stickers, which the HSE would like householders to stick on their bins, as a reminder to collection workers when lifting.

Paul Harvey, HSE's Waste and Recycling Principal Inspector said:

"Collecting waste and recyclables often goes unnoticed. Collection workers start early in the morning, often before dawn, cover thousands of miles a year and sort and lift huge quantities of our waste and recyclables - we can often take their work for granted.

"However, they work in an industry that has a fatal incident rate ten times higher than the national average, they cross the road on average 30,000 times a year and lift the equivalent of a double-decker bus each day. These are significant hazards."

Workplace transport, slips and trips and musculoskeletal injuries account for two-thirds of all accidents within the waste collection industry.

Following 9 reported fatalities in 8 weeks, in the waste and recycling industry, the HSE issued a safety alert to the industry. You can access our HSfB news story on this topic by clicking the following:

4 March 2006 - HSE Issues Safety Alert to Waste and Recycling Industry

The HSE provide a webpage dedicated to Health and safety in the waste management and recycling industries, which can be accessed by clicking the following:

Health and Safety in the Waste Management and Recycling Industry

Workplace Transport advice can be accessed from HSE's Webpage by clicking the following:

HSE - Vehicles at work

Further information on slips and trips can also be accessed from HSE's Webpage by clicking the following:

HSE - SLIPS & TRIPS

Further information on musculoskeletal disorders can be accessed from HSE's Webpage by clicking the following:

Musculoskeletal disorders

Article by Alexandra Johnston

24 March 2006 - HSE Information on Powered Rolling Doors and Risks to Children

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) information document has been issued to owners of vertically opening powered rolling doors, due to the number of fatalities and serious injuries incurred by children from playing on them.

The information document is intended for the following:

Property Managers.
Property Owners.
Landlords.
Car Park Operators.
Local Authorities.
People who own, operate or install such doors as part of a business.

Commenting on the most recent fatality and subsequent prosecution in October 2005, where the owner pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety laws and fined £50,000 plus £50,000 costs, Phil Gifford, Principal Inspector, of the HSE’s Investigating Unit said:

“This was a tragic loss of life that could have so easily been prevented.

"Car parks are not playgrounds and the owners of such doors should make sure all the foreseeable risks are considered in buildings where children are likely to be present.”

The information document provides guidelines for owners of powered rolling doors, tackling such areas as the following:

A Door powerful enough to lift an adult or child, is a hazard, therefore the owner should review their risk assessment.
The most appropriate safeguard or combination of safeguards should then be selected to ensure safety.
Retrofit options may be available from the door supplier, otherwise a bespoke solution will be required.
If a door is modified or refurbished and this results in significant changes to the control or operation of the door, then the door will have to be CE marked by the person undertaking the modification or refurbishment.

The information document has much more helpful advice to offer and can be accessed from the HSE Webpage by clicking the following:

HSE warns of dangers to children playing on powered rolling doors

Article by Alexandra Johnston

23 March 2006 - HSE Cautionary Warning on Misuse of Retractable Type Fall Arrestors

A cautionary warning as to the dangers of misusing retractable type fall arrest equipment has been issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The warning comes, following HSE research findings from an interim report being carried out for the Health and Safety Commission's (HSC's) "Falls from Height Priority Programme".

The caution has been issued after the interim report revealed the following findings:

Retractable type fall arresters are commonly being misused in circumstances they have not been tested for.
The misuse is creating safety hazards and an increased risk of fatality.
There is an indication that some manufacturers and suppliers in the UK are failing to provide adequate instructions and information to use the products safely, adding to the problem.

David Thomas, Principal Specialist Inspector and HSE's technical lead on fall protection issues, commented:

"All industry sectors are exposed to the risks presented by falls from height and these findings underline the need for employers and workers to ensure retractable type fall arresters are used in the correct way.

"They should be used only in the vertical plane with an overhead anchor unless the manufacturer's instructions clearly state otherwise.

"If this equipment is used in any other way, or combined with other components in a fall arrest system, it may be unsafe and could result in injury or fatality."

Mr. Thomas, commenting on the testing of the fall arresters, also said HSE urges caution over the following:

"The European Standard does not cover retractable type fall arresters being tested for use over edges, which is sometimes how they are used.

"In a fall over an edge the retractable lanyard may break, the braking system might be overloaded to failure, or the fall might not be arrested in the distance available.

"There is a test used by some manufacturers, known as the VG11 test, but we have concerns over its intent and adequacy and will be considering this over the next few months, once the research project is completed.

"If there is any further advice we will issue it immediately."

The BS 8437:2005, Code of practice for selection, use and maintenance for personal fall protection systems and equipment for use in the workplace provides further advice and can be accessed from the BSI-Global Website by clicking the following:

BSI Global Website

Further information on falls from height can be accessed from the HSE Webpage by clicking the following:

Falls from height

Article by Alexandra Johnston

Monday, March 27, 2006

21 March 2006 - HSE Good Practice Case Studies on Work from Height

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have produced a very useful and interesting webpage providing examples of generic good practice in the planning and assessment of tasks when working from height.

The webpage has information on such as the following:

What the problem was in various types of work.
Risk Assessments and the planning and organisation.
Solution.
How the solution was reached.

The case studies provide information on such as the following:

Accident descriptions.
Costs of accident to businesses.
Benefits of preventative measures.
Reducing risk of falls.

The HSE Webpage containing the links to the case studies, can be accessed by clicking the following:

HSE - Falls from height - WAHR Case studies

Article by Alexandra Johnston

21 March 2006 - HSE Advice on LOLER for Arboriculture Sector

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have produced an information sheet for the self-employed and contractors working in the arboriculture sector, with the aim of helping them understand the Lifting Operation and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), which became enforceable in December 1998.

Although the HSE information sheet is relatively small, it is packed with simple and easy to read information for anyone working within the arboriculture sector.

Some of the information within the information sheet is as follows:

Advice on lifting equipment for the raising of workers into trees etc.
How LOLER applies to rigging operations work in diseased or decaying trees.
Advice on the stability of lifting equipment to avoid the risk of collapse.
Advice on the organisation and planning necessary prior to the commencement of lifting operations.
Advice on inspection of lifting equipment.
Information on other Regulations which also apply, such as PUWER 98 and WAHR 2005.

The full information sheet can be accessed in pdf format, by clicking the following:

HSE Information sheet on LOLER: How the Regulations apply to arboriculture

Article by Alexandra Johnston

Monday, March 20, 2006

20 March 2006 - Age Discrimination Perception Sees Rise in Plastic Surgery

Figures from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) have shown a rise of 40% in anti-ageing treatments due to facial ageing workers' perception of not being respected, or able to advance their chosen career, because they look older.

Although the EU Employment Framework for age discrimination, due to be implemented in October 2006, will make it illegal to discriminate against age, psychologists say older workers now feel that looking older means less respect in a competitive work environment.

Reports from renowned cosmetic surgery organisations show the following trends:

Eyelid surgery to remove wrinkled skin and bags around the eyes increased by 50%.
Brow lifts increased by 35%.
The Harley Medical Group report "silver surgery" to be booming.
The proportion of 50-year-olds having surgery in The Harley Medical Group clinics has quadrupled in the past five years. Almost half of those people said they wanted to remain a player in the workplace.

Dr Norman Waterhouse, a Harley Street face-lift specialist with 28 years' experience, said:

"Policewomen and teachers come to me. People who would not have come to me 15 or 20 years ago are now requesting treatments.

"We are all going to be working longer. As we get older we all have to make sure we are presentable. Where once we would have had a haircut, we now consider surgery as a realistic option."

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) carried out a recent study on age discrimination and reported the following:

More than half of respondents felt they had been personally disadvantaged at work because of age discrimination.
39% believed that their chances of promotion had been hindered by age discrimination.
Staff between the ages of 30 and 39 were considered to have the best promotion prospects.
Opportunities fell sharply for the over-50s.

Blaming the rise in plastic surgery face-lifts on psychology in business and impression management, Professor Chris Warhurst of Strathclyde Business School said:

"The business press exhorts professionals to look their best. This used to mean dress, body language and comportment, and plastic surgery is an extension of that.

"While youth and good looks are important in services that have direct contact with customers, the effects are discernible across all occupations."

Further information on the Age Discrimination Legislation can be accessed from the DTI Website, by clicking the following:

DTI Employment Relations

Article by Alexandra Johnston

20 March 2006 - MI5 Protection Against Terrorism Guidance

MI5's National Security Advice Centre (NSAC) have produced an updated document "Protection Against Terrorism", in response to requests from businesses requiring information and guidance for protective security, in the event of a terrorist attack.

The hard-copy top ten guidelines covered in the document are as follows:

Carry out a risk assessment to decide on the threats you might be facing and their likelihood. Identify your vulnerabilities.
If acquiring or extending premises, consider security at the planning stage. It will be cheaper and more effective than adding measures later.
Make security awareness part of your organisation’s culture and ensure security is represented at a senior level.
Ensure good basic housekeeping throughout your premises. Keep public areas tidy and well lit, remove unnecessary furniture and keep garden areas clear.
Keep access points to a minimum and issue staff and visitors with passes.
Where possible, do not allow unauthorised vehicles close to your building.
Install appropriate physical measures such as locks, alarms, CCTV surveillance and lighting.
Examine your mail-handling procedures; consider establishing a mailroom away from your main premises.
When recruiting staff or hiring contractors, check identities and follow up references.
Consider how best to protect your information and take proper IT security precautions. Examine your methods for disposing of confidential waste.
Plan and test your business continuity plans, ensuring that you can continue to function without access to your main premises and IT systems.

Compliance of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act (1974) also includes an employers "duty of care" to staff and members of the public in the case of terrorism attacks. It is therefore advisable, following the London bombings in July 2005, that all businesses should have in place contingency plans for staff and visitors' safety in the event of a bomb attack.

The general advice given in the guidance can be accessed, in pdf format, by clicking the following:

MI5 Security Service Protecting Against Terrorism Guidance

Article by Alexandra Johnston

Sunday, March 19, 2006

19 March 2006 - HSfB Site News

Site News

The downloads page has been updated.

Manual Handling Assessment Chart (MAC) Tool Worked Examples by Juli Warder, which should be read in conjunction with the HSE MAC Assessment leaflet found here: Manual Handling Assessment Charts
- MH1_Prelim
- MH1_RA
- MH1_Remed
- MH2_Prelim
- MH2_RA
- MH2_Remed
- MH3_Prelim
- MH3_RA
- MH3_Remed
- MH4_Prelim
- MH5_prelim
Work at Height by Gary H
Driver Safety by Grahame Clarke

19 March 2006 - HSE Prosecution Prompts Warning to Construction Industry

Following the serious injuries of Mr. Calum Redman, a 36 year old labourer and subsequent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation and court case of Pellikaan (Construction) Ltd., London, the HSE have issued a safety warning to the construction industry as a whole.

Mr. Redman received serious injuries whilst working at a new build leisure centre in Royston, Hertfordshire on 13 November 2004. He was buried beneath falling debris from the collapse of the first floor of the building.

HSE Investigating Inspector, Norman Mac Ritchie, said:

"Calum Redman was seriously injured during this incident and the fact is, it could have been avoided. It is vital that those in the construction industry take this as a warning as this incident could have had much graver consequences.

"Contractors working on temporary structures should conduct suitable risk assessments and take steps to prevent danger from their collapse. For example, by ensuring that temporary support is suitably designed and erected under the supervision of a competent person.

"An appropriate assessment of the loading forces, and load bearing capacity of the supports, is fundamental.

"We wish Calum Redman a speedy recovery."

Pleading guilty for breaching health and safety legislation, Pellikaan (Construction) Ltd. was fined £45,000 at Stevenage Magistrates Court on 15 March 2006.

The health and safety legislation breached by Pellikaan (Construction) Ltd. was as follows:

Health and Safety at Work Etc Act 1974, Section 2(1).
Health and Safety at Work Etc Act 1974, Section 3(1).
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, Reg 5(1).
Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 Reg 4(1), (concerning failure to discharge a duty to comply with Regulation 9(1).

A practical guidance on risk management is available from the HSE Webpage and can be accessed by clicking the following:

Risk management in practice

There is also lots of information for the construction industry within the HSE construction webpage. The webpage can be accessed by clicking the following:

HSE Construction homepage

Article by Alexandra Johnston

19 March 2006 - HSC Consultation on BPD Proposals

Under Section 50(3) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (HSWA) and in compliance with their duty to consult, the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) have issued a Consultation Document on the draft Biocidal Products (amendment) Regulations 2006 for completion of the implementation of the Biocidal Products Directive 98/8/EC (BPD).

The new proposed regulations will amend the Biocidal Products Regulations 2001 (BPR), with the two-fold objectives of the BPD being as follows:

To harmonise the European market for biocidal products and their active substances.
To provide a high level of protection for humans, animals and the environment.

Garry Wiles of the Health and Safety Executive's (HSE's) Biocides and Veterinary Unit said:

"The proposed amendments will not alter the way in which the system, established by the 2001 Regulations, operates.

"The HSE believes the costs for duty-holders and HSE arising from the amendments are negligible."

The use of Biocidal products in various types of industries is to control unwanted organisms of such as animals, bacteria, viruses, fungi and insects, either by killing or controlling by chemical or biological means.

The 12 week Consultation will end on 9 June 2006.

Further information on the proposed changes and Consultation Document can be accessed from the HSC Webpage by clicking the following:

Proposals for the Biocidal Products (Amendment) Regulations 2006

Article by Alexandra Johnston

Saturday, March 18, 2006

18 March 2006 - HSfB Site News

Site News

Three new articles have been published, one by http://www.nhbcbuilder.co.uk/, another by Otto and one by Twinkle Toes.
The Control of Noise at Work
Everything You Need to Know to Pass the A1 Management Paper
Top Tips for Busting Stress

15 March 2006 - Textured Coating Asbestos Research Confirms Low-Risk

New research findings by the Health and Safety Laboratory (HSL) confirms, that a license will not longer be required for asbestos containing textured coatings (TC's), as the risks are much lower with this type of asbestos than was once thought.

A recent consultation of draft amendments to asbestos Regulations by the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) include the lower single limit of 0.1 fibres per cm3 for all asbestos types.

Comments received from stakeholders during the consultation, prompted the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to commission the HSL to carry out further work into TC's, resulting in a low risk conclusion.

Kevin Walkin, Head of Asbestos Policy at HSE, said:

"The research shows that the risk from asbestos-containing textured coatings is comparable to the risks from work with asbestos cement, which does not require a licence.

"We're not saying this work is no-risk - it still needs to be carried out by trained workers using appropriate controls. Licensing is an additional check on high-risk work and should reflect changing knowledge about risks to remain credible.

"This new research shows that the level of asbestos fibres in the air from work with textured coatings will not exceed the proposed new control limit when carried out using good practice and that clearing up all the visible debris will be sufficient to ensure that premises are safe for reoccupation."

The HSE presented the findings of the new research to the HSC at a meeting yesterday 14 March. However, no decision was taken to change the asbestos Regulations as yet.

A further meeting will take place in April this year, where HSE will discuss the new research with stakeholders representatives.

Final recommendations from the HSE will be made at a meeting with HSC in May with a view to introducing revised asbestos Regulations on 1 October 2006.

Furthermore, HSE intend to publish a single ACoP which will include requirements for TC's work.

The new research can be accessed, in pdf format, from the HSL by clicking the following:

Summary report on additional work carried out of the monitoring of chrysotile containing textured decorative coatings - IF/2006/07

Article by Alexandra Johnston

15 March 2006 - IIAC Industrial Injuries Annual Report

The Industrial Injuries Advisory Council (IIAC) have produced their eighth industrial injuries annual report for 2005/06.

IIAC, the independent scientific body advising the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions within Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit Scheme, have reported on the following:

Vinyl chloride monomer.
Silica-related renal and connective tissue diseases.
Sporting injuries.
Occupational voice loss.

The report also has an in-depth coverage of the following:

Conditions due to physical agents (physical cause).
Conditions due to biological agents (caused by animal, plant or other living organism).
Conditions due to chemical agents (chemical cause).
Pneumoconiosis, including silicosis and asbestosis.

Whilst we are all very aware of industrial injuries, the content of this report highlights just how important adherence to health and safety policies and legislation within the workplace really is if we are to avoid such long-term disabilities.

Please take a moment to visit the IIAC website for further information by clicking the following:

The Industrial Injuries Advisory Council

Article by Alexandra Johnston

14 March 2006 - HSE Guidance on Medical Exposure to Ionising Radiation

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have provided advice in the form of a Guidance to assist employers who have "control of equipment used in connection with medical exposure to ionising radiation." Although the guidance is not compulsory, it will assist in compliance with the law.

The guidance and advice within, is aimed at benefiting the following:

NHS employers and private health care providers.
Medical x-ray services.
Dentists, Physiotherapists, Osteopaths and Chiropractors.
Radiation Protection Advisers.

Some of the advice within the guidance is as follows:

The selection, installation, maintenance, calibration
and replacement of equipment.
Criteria of acceptability for both new and older
equipment.
Quality assurance programmes, including adoption
of suspension levels.
The investigation of incidents involving a malfunction
or defect in radiation equipment which results in an
exposure much greater than intended.
Advice for compliance of the Ionising Radiations Regulation 1999 (IRR99).

The HSE Guidance, in pdf format, can be accessed by clicking the following:

Equipment used in Connection with Medical Exposure

Further information on Ionising Radiation Protection can also be accessed from the HSE Webpage by clicking the following:

Ionising Radiation - Radiation Protection

Article by Alexandra Johnston

14 March 2006 - New HSE Research Reports

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have provided three new research reports within their website as follows:

By clicking your chosen link above, the pdf format reports can be accessed from the HSE webpages.

The above pdf format reports can be accessed by clicking the relevant link.

The HSE have also produced a revised Asbestos topic site, which is well worth perusing. Asbestos-related illness is the greatest single cause of work related deaths in the UK.

Included within the Asbestos topic site are the following:

Asbestos related diseases, such as, Asbestosis, Lung cancer and Mesothelioma.
Information and Guidance, such as, Enforcement action, Free leaflets on asbestos, Training providers and Asbestos-related research.
Regulations applicable to Asbestos.
Asbestos campaign information.
Licensing and Enforcement.

The HSE Asbestos Webpage can be accessed by clicking the following:

Asbestos health and safety in the workplace

Article by Alexandra Johnston

Sunday, March 12, 2006

12 March 2006 - HSE Guidance on Manual Handling in Hospitality Industry

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have issued a new guidance on manual handling, aimed at raising awareness amongst employers within the hospitality industry.

Emphasis is being placed on kitchen workers and occupational ill health caused through lack of correct health and safety procedures. Incorrect procedures can cause such problems as back pain and upper limb disorder.

By adhering to correct procedures when lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying and awkward body movements at sinks, preparation worktops etc a lifetime of pain and illness can be avoided.

Recent figures show 62% of all manual handling accidents in the hospitality industry involve pushing and pulling, lifting and carrying and awkward body movements.

The new guidance offers good sensible advice not only to employers within the hospitality industry, but contains helpful information to staff members on how to avoid un-necessary occupational ill-health.

The new HSE guidance can be viewed, in a short pdf format, by clicking the following:

Preventing back pain and other aches and pains to kitchen and food service staff

The new guidance supports and supplements HSE's Better BACKS campaign launched in June 2005 and can be accessed from the HSE webpage by clicking the following:

HSE Better Backs

Article by Alexandra Johnston

12 March 2006 - HSE Issue Improvement Notices on Suffolk Police

As part of a new Health and Safety Executive (HSE) scheme to inspect Suffolk Constabulary on a regular basis and following one such inspection in November 2005, with a subsequent visit in January 2006, HSE inspectors deemed it necessary to issue improvement notices in the following two areas:

Insufficient analysis of workstations.
Health and Safety training had not been completed satisfactorily.

The improvements required will have to be implemented by September 2006.

However, a meeting with constabulary representatives and the HSE recognised, that although some high-level risks to health and safety within the force were satisfactory, lower-level risks, such as prolonged use of poorly equipped workstations had not been understood.

A Suffolk police spokesman said:

“The health and safety of our staff is a priority within the constabulary and we take the matter extremely seriously.

“This is the first inspection by the Health and Safety Executive that we have been subject to and, on the whole, the report was extremely positive.

“However, it is important to us that any issues are identified and raised as they have been in this case.

“We are now working with the HSE to address these issues.”

A report, by Chief Constable Alistair Mc Whirter, contained the following:

"Resources in the health and safety section were insufficient to meet the task.

"Assistance would be provided either through the creation of an additional post or the use of existing resources from elsewhere."

The force has also identified other longer term improvements requiring attention, which include the following:

Stress Management consideration.
Noise level surveys.
Recording of Immunisation status of officers and staff.

The Police Authority has agreed to provide £200,000 from reserves to fund the work needed, in order that the issues raised can be addressed.

Further information on police management of health and safety plus other guidance and advice can be accessed from the HSE police webpage by clicking the following:

HSE - Services - Police Services

Article by Alexandra Johnston

9 March 2006 - London Police Anti-Stress Initiative Success

Following the launch and introduction of an anti-stress initiative by the City of London Police, "Quality of Working Life" in 2003, the results of an internal audit completed in September 2005, has shown the scheme to be a success.

The main aims of the Quality of Working Life scheme were as follows:

To assess and identify the main causes of stress and to develop a strategy to tackle it.
To focus on issues such as work-life balance and staff commitment.

Once the identification of work-related stress was made, a series of workplace programmes and initiatives were put in place, such as the following:

The introduction of a flexible working policy.
Employee communication reviews.
Active performance management.

The internal audit results have shown benefits to the workforce such as the following:

Employees now had higher levels of job satisfaction.
Employees now had improved commitment.
Employees now had improved psychological and physical health.

Carolyn Woolley, Human Resource Services Director at City of London Police, said:

"Policing involves a great deal of pressure on a daily basis for officers and staff.

"High levels of absenteeism, including that due to stress, increase the pressure on all staff, which can potentially lead to a drop in employee motivation, staff morale and, ultimately, performance."

Robertson Cooper, the company who ran the initiative, is working with a further 15 police forces to implement the scheme.

Professor Cary Cooper, Director of Business Psychologists Robertson Cooper said:

"Wellbeing has now become a bottom-line issue for organisations. If they actively manage it, they can start to see the benefits."

Jan Berry, Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said:

"Chief police officers need to do all they can to minimise the impact of stress and provide support where necessary."

Representatives from 38 of the 51 UK police forces attended a stress workshop organised by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Association of Chief Police Officers and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development Police Forum in Manchester last month. The aim of the stress workshop was to ascertain the underlying causes of stress.

Further information on work-related stress can be accessed from the HSE webpage by clicking the following:

HSE - Work-related Stress

An HSfB news article on 1 February 2006, provides further information on stress in the police force, with excellent links for help and advice. Access to this article and links is available by clicking the following:

1 February 2006 - Police Chiefs and HSE Meeting to Beat Police Stress

Article by Alexandra Johnston

Sunday, March 05, 2006

5 March - HSfB Site News

Site News

The downloads page has been updated.
- Manual Handling Risk Assessment by Steve Carey (.xls) Spreadsheet
- HAZOP FMEA etc - Source unknown (PDF) 762KB
Two new articles have been published by one of our discussion forum members, which aim to give advice on coping with NEBOSH exams.
- A Potted Guide to Taking NEBOSH Exams by Otto
- NEBOSH Exam Worked Example by Otto

Saturday, March 04, 2006

4 March 2006 - HSE Issues Safety Alert to Waste and Recycling Industry

Following 9 reported fatalities in 8 weeks, in the waste and recycling industry, seven of which were caused by vehicles, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have issued a Safety Alert to the industry.

Paul Harvey, Principal Inspector of HSE’s Waste and Recycling Section commented:

“The tragedy of these incidents must act as a stimulus for the industry to review its procedures, making sure that vehicle risks are properly controlled.

"Wherever possible pedestrians and vehicles should be segregated, paying special attention to transfer stations and sorting areas.

"Street collection activities need to address the risks to collection staff and other road and pavement users.

“Using reversing aids such as mirrors, CCTV, detectors and beacons do reduce the risks.

"In most public access areas you will usually need to provide reversing assistants, their job being to help the driver and prevent or warn pedestrians entering manoeuvring areas when the risks cannot be controlled adequately by other means.”

Further information regarding the 9 fatalities since December 2005, plus other useful information and advice on how to avoid such tragedies, can be accessed from the HSE Webpage by clicking the following:

Nine fatalities in eight weeks – HSE issues safety alert to Waste and Recycling industry

Article by Alexandra Johnston

3 March 2006 - Latest HSE Research Reports

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have provided two new research reports within their webpages as follows:

The above reports can be accessed from the HSE webpage by clicking the relevant link.

There is also a new updated HSE webpage on occupational skin disease, providing information on how skin comes into contact with chemicals, common work-related skin diseases and a plan of action on how to avoid skin disease.

Skin at Work

The updated Skin at Work webpage can be accessed by clicking the link above.

Article by Alexandra Johnston

3 March 2006 - New Date for CDM Regulation Implementation

Following the Health and Safety Commission's (HSC's) three month consultation on the revised Construction (Design and Management) (CDM) Regulations, it has been announced that an agreement has been made, with the backing of the Construction Industry Advisory Committee (CONIAC) CDM Review Working group, to implement in Spring 2007.

The revised Regulations will bring together provisions in the existing CDM Regulations 1994 and the Construction (Health Safety and Welfare) (CHSW) Regulations 1996 into a single regulatory package.

Stephen Williams, HSE's Chief Inspector of Construction said:

"The revised CDM Regulations will replace the two key sets of existing regulations. When we began our review of those regulations, the HSC set us some important and challenging objectives. HSE and its partners believe we are well on the way to producing a set of replacement Regulations which will achieve those objectives, but we would be selling ourselves short if we rushed our proposals through.

"We need more time to make sure we get the changes right and the industry also needs to have adequate time to familiarise itself with the finalised CDM package."

Stephen Ratcliffe from the Construction Confederation said:

"We recognise the importance of getting these changes right. Moving the proposed implementation date forward gives us more time to prepare guidance for our members, and this will form an important part of the overall package."

Further information can be accessed from the HSE Webpage by clicking the following:

HSE announces new timetable for construction design regulations

Article by Alexandra Johnston

3 March 2006 - HSE Invite Property Developers to Free Training

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Construction Division are inviting property developers to attend a free training seminar at their London Headquarters, Southwark Bridge, on 20 March 2006.

With the proposed changes to the Construction (Design Management) (CDM) regulations, the half-day seminar is aimed at providing an understanding of health and safety laws applicable to property developers in the construction industry.

Giles Meredith, Construction Inspector, said:

"Far too often we visit construction sites where the client thinks health and safety is not their problem.

"Evidence clearly shows that clients who take ownership of health and safety for the life of a project, who demonstrate their commitment through their leadership on site and who work in partnership with contractors have much to gain, including a significantly better product".

This is a free seminar, which will only take one morning or afternoon, providing property developers with the opportunity to discuss health and safety law with HSE construction specialists.

Bookings for the seminar can be made by contacting Kokhab Rafi or Pat Osayande on 020 7556 2100, or by email to : kokhab.rafi@hse.gsi.gov.uk

Article by Alexandra Johnston

1 March 2006 - Consultation on Solid Low Level Radioactive Waste

The Government's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), have published proposals for consultation into solid low level radioactive waste.

Although this type of radioactive waste is normally associated with nuclear facility operations, the consultation is addressing long-term management of such waste materials in smaller amounts, generated from non-nuclear industries such as the following:

Hospitals.
Research and educational facilities.
The oil and gas industries.

The future also holds the possibility of substantial amounts of nuclear waste being generated by the de-commissioning of nuclear sites, affecting such as the following:

Soil.
Building rubble.
Ducting.
Piping
Reinforcement.

The three main questions asked in the consultation by the UK Government, Scottish Executive, Welsh Assembly Government and in Northern Ireland, the Department of the Environment are as follows:

Whether there should be greater flexibility in the management of the wide range of low level radioactive wastes, provided that the necessary level of safety is maintained.
Should the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority be expected to consider other (i.e. non-NDA) nuclear and non-nuclear industry needs when making arrangements for the management and disposal of its own wastes?
Should regional and local authority planners play a greater role in providing for the management of non-nuclear low level radioactive wastes generated within their own areas?

The consultation period will run until 31 March 2006.

Future disposal of nuclear waste could affect the health and welfare of all, so with this in mind, why not let your views be known in the consultation.

The consultation document can be accessed by clicking the following:

Low Level Waste Forum

Further information can be accessed from the DEFRA Website by clicking the following:

Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Further information on the UK's radioactive waste can be accessed from the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management (CRWM) Website by clicking the following:

Committee on Radioactive Waste Management

Article by Alexandra Johnston

1 March 2006 - New HSE Research into Isocyanate Exposure in MVR Industry

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have produced the findings from an evaluation of four pilot Safety and Health Awareness days (SHAD's) for the Motor Vehicle Repair (MVR) industry, into the effects isocyanate exposure can have on paint sprayers' health.

Paint sprayers are the work group most at risk of contracting asthma from isocyanate exposure.

A three year national intervention programme has been set up by Specialist Occupational Hygiene Inspectors in HSE's Field Operations Directive (FOD).

The intervention programme will look at such areas as the following:

Improving the control of isocyanate exposure in the MVR sector by 2008.
Improving the design of equipment, instruction, training, maintenance and advice for the control of isocyanate.

If you are in the MVR sector, please take a moment to read the HSE research report, which can be accessed, in pdf format, by clicking the following:

HSL/2006/11 - Evaluation of four pilot Safety & Health Awareness Days (SHAD's) for motor vehicle paint sprayers

Article by Alexandra Johnston

1 March 2006 - HSE Encourage Worker Involvement in Health and Safety

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), in a bid to improve levels of worker involvement in the management of health and safety, have introduced a Worker Involvement Programme, which is aimed at encouraging employers and workers to join together in managing the health and safety risks within their workplaces.

The launch of the Worker Involvement Programme is published in a new webpage, providing the necessary tools required for both employers and workers to manage health and safety jointly.

Some of the information within the new webpage is as follows:

What is meant by "Worker Involvement".
Useful contacts for further help with consultation and information outside health and safety.
Legal position - including the duty to consult, what to consult on and a summary of representatives’ statutory roles.
Overview for employers of the benefits of involving employees suggesting processes for involving workers in health and safety management, including practical tips and examples.
Case studies of organisations already benefiting from worker involvement.
Assessment tools such as a quick checklist. Examples of good practice, to see how your organisation is doing and to monitor progress.

Zoe Woodrow, Policy Adviser in HSE's Worker Involvement Programme said of the new initiative:

"The active involvement of workers is fundamental to good health and safety management. However, we know that many employers find it a difficult area to address. These resources provide a range of examples and suggestions that we hope will help employers and managers to encourage joint problem solving in their workplaces.

"The diversity of organisations that are benefiting from worker involvement and the variety of systems they have put in place show that there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution but that all organisations – whether in the private or public sector, whether large multi-site operations or smaller manufacturing firms – can involve workers in successful health and safety management."

Steve Hinks, Environmental Health and Safety Manager at Pirelli UK Tyres Ltd and Member of the HSC's Rubber Industry Advisory Committee said:

“We have long recognised the need for better engagement with workers in managing health and safety risks in the rubber industry.

“Many companies, particularly smaller ones, are unsure of the best ways to go about engaging with their workers in an area like health and safety. We are pleased that HSE has produced these helpful materials and will be promoting them to our members.”

The new HSE Worker Involvement webpage can be accessed by clicking the following:

HSE Worker Involvement in Health and Safety

Article by Alexandra Johnston

28 February 2006 - Agonising Ordeal as Cement Mixer Traps Workers Arm

A worker repairing a pavement in Edinburgh had to endure a long agonising ordeal as fire-fighters, using an angle grinder, rushed to free his arm from a cement mixer.

It is thought the Land Engineering worker had placed his hand inside the cement mixer to clear some grout, when his left arm became entrapped in the mechanism, turning his arm in excess of a 360 degree angle.

The 28 year old, whose brother also worked on the site, remained awake and in extreme pain. The incident was so distressing that a cordon was set up around the victim, in order to prevent passers-by from viewing just how badly the 28 year old had been injured.

Officials from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are investigating the incident and the Council are setting up their own enquiry.

Tom McGrath, of Tollcross Fire Station, who led the operation, said:

"We got a call saying that a male had his hand trapped in a concrete mixer.

"When we arrived we found the man had his arm trapped between the wrist and elbow inside the mixer mechanism.

"He's either caught his jacket or his arm in it, and he was very seriously injured. I can't comment on whether or not he will lose his arm, but it was very serious.

"We had to keep passers-by away because of the nature of the incident.

"It was getting to the stage where if he wasn't extricated fairly rapidly, we would have had to call it in as a 'medic one'.

"That's when flying ambulance with doctors on board is sent to deal with a prolonged incident."

Stuart Dillett, Director of the Hamilton-based Land Engineering company, said:

"Land Engineering have this morning been made aware of an unfortunate accident involving one of our sub-contractor operatives.

"While it is yet too early to comment on the factors contributing to the incident a formal internal accident investigation has been initiated by our in-house health and safety section in line with Land Engineering's established procedures.

"Where necessary, action will be taken as appropriate to reflect the findings of the investigation."

The HSE provide lots of information for the safety of construction workers within their webpages, one of which can be accessed by clicking the following:

Construction - Good order initiative

Article by Alexandra Johnston

28 February 2006 - A Voice in Government Policy Making for Disabled

The Government has announced a very welcome National Forum for the less-able community, giving them a direct voice to the Government where they can influence decisions on policies and services.

As part of the Governments new Advisory Group, the National Forum will consist of 12 people who have direct experience of the requirements for the UK's disabled community. Throughout the next 6 months, these 12 members will assist in the setting up of the National Forum.

The Forum was established following The Prime Minister's Strategy Unit report, "Improving the Life Chances of Disabled People", in January 2005. The recommendation of the report was to implement a National Forum for Organisations of disabled people, providing a direct link to the Government.

A further recommendation of the Strategy Unit report was to establish an Office for Disability Issues (ODI), which was launched on 1 December 2005, providing a cross-Government focus on issues affecting the disabled.

Anne McGuire, Minister for Disabled People, speaking at the groups first meeting said:

"A national forum for disabled people demonstrates the Government's commitment to engaging directly in meaningful dialogue with disabled people. This will ensure that the needs of disabled people are not forgotten. I look forward to working with the Advisory Group, which will ensure that disabled people are included in the creation of the forum from the start."

Bruce Calderwood, Director for Disabled People and Carers in the Department for Work and Pensions, commented:

"The Government is committed to ensuring real equality for disabled people. This can only happen if there's genuine engagement and dialogue with disabled people. That's what the Forum is about. A key priority for me is ensuring it gives a voice to groups of disabled people who might otherwise struggle to be heard."

Alun Davies, Member of the Advisory Group, said:

"The Government's commitment to involving and consulting with disabled people is a very important message for disabled people to hear. As a disabled person who has been involved for many years in trying to make organisations listen to disabled people I welcome this opportunity to get involved with the development of the forum."

The Office for Disability Issues Website can be accessed by clicking the following:

Office for Disability Issues

The Improving the Life Chances of Disabled People report can be accessed from the Prime Ministers Strategy Website by clicking the following:

Improving the Life Chances of Disabled People

Further information on all aspects affecting the less-able can be accessed from the Disability Rights Commission Website by clicking the following:

The Disability Rights Commission

Article by Alexandra Johnston

27 February 2006 - Bullying and Stress Claim by Research Centre Staff

A leading Scottish Scientific Research Centre has come under fire from members of staff for allegedly creating ill-health through bullying and stress.

The prestigious University of Dundee School of Life Sciences have some of the worlds top scientists within who have contributed many successful findings for major diseases such as the p53 cancer gene.

However, it has been alleged by members of staff, that these successes have perhaps created a culture of bullying and stress-related ill-health within the Universities workforce.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have visited the University 3 times since December 2005, investigating allegations of work-related bullying and stress.

Although David Stephen, HSE Inspector, found the University's process of risk-assessment to be "structurally good", he also found the following areas to be in need of attention:

Work relationships, as perceived by staff, were such that they could not air their views openly or freely without retribution.
This applied to management styles also.
Mr. Stephen expressed "some doubt" as to whether the University met it's statutory obligations under the Health and Safety Regulations 1999.

A spokesman for the Dundee Association of University Teachers said:

"Stress has become a real problem at the School of Life Sciences and it will be high on the agenda at every joint liaison committee meeting this year.

"We believe there should be an independent health and safety officer appointed for the university to deal with such matters. Stress has become a major issue for universities in general, but Dundee is at the worst end of the spectrum."

A Spokesman for the University said:

"We did carry out a work-related stress risk assessment in the life sciences teaching unit. This was facilitated by an independent consultant with the full involvement of both the university and the relevant trade unions.

"David Stephen did make a number of suggestions for improving the system, which we are happy to take on board.

"We have a clear work-related stress policy with a network of well-being contacts across the university, and an in-house safety services department which provides professional advice.

"We also have a clear policy on bullying and harassment and all complaints are fully investigated and disciplinary action taken when necessary."

One specific dismissal case of a teaching technician, Dorothy Lawson, aged 59, who had worked at the school for 35 years, claimed she was dismissed without notice for insubordination and indiscipline, when she voiced her opinion. Ms Lawson's case is being backed by Amicus at her appeal hearing on Friday, 3 March 2006.

Commenting that five members of staff had raised concerns to their line managers over stress, Ms Lawson said:

"All that happened after that was that we were all up on disciplinary charges and I got sacked for what they called in my dismissal letter 'insubordination and indiscipline'.

"We'd all been at the university for a long time and knew the place inside out. But you couldn't speak out or raise any issues for fear of retribution, and my case highlights that perfectly.

"Stress is rife in the place and compounded by the line managers, who refuse to listen or help their staff."

The HSE have lots of information and advice on bullying and stress in the workplace both for managers and staff which can be accessed from their webpage by clicking the following:

HSE - Stress: Useful links

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) also provide information offering help and assistance for anyone concerned by bullying and stress in the workplace which can be accessed by clicking the following:

Trades Union Congress - Know your rights - Bullied at Work

Article by Alexandra Johnston

Thursday, March 30, 2006

Monday, March 27, 2006

Monday, March 20, 2006

Sunday, March 19, 2006

Saturday, March 18, 2006

Sunday, March 12, 2006

Sunday, March 05, 2006

Saturday, March 04, 2006

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