Category Archives: Health and Safety


Published · Updated

Winter’s coming: are you prepared?

Photo Credit. Emma Woodhouse. The Wrekin!

Preparing for winter

To prepare for inclement weather, a winter plan should be put together with an associated risk assessment. This should be carried out well in advance, and revisited and revised throughout the cold period.

The winter plan will be part of the suite of contingency plans already in place that outline what could happen in worst-case scenarios, and how these risks are mitigated and managed. For example, how would the business fare if power supplies went down?

To make sure everyone understands what is expected of them, and to ensure the plan is as streamlined as possible, it should be completed alongside other areas of the business, eg HR, IT and the communications team.

As part of any planning process, include a review of how the plan fared last year, as well as the year before, so that new approaches can be adopted where processes were less than ideal.

Some areas that could be addressed as part of winter planning are outlined below.

Communication and remote working

Staff need to know what is expected of them when bad weather strikes, as well as what they can expect from the organisation. In some respects, the widespread introduction of remote working following Covid-19 may have improved the organisation’s ability to adapt to short-term consequences of being unable to attend work. Many members of staff will now be set up to work from home, and if hybrid working has been introduced into the organisation, this may help reduce disruption.

However, staff will still need clear policies on what is appropriate, so work with HR to integrate flexible working policies into the winter plan so that employees understand what to do in the event of bad weather or other winter-related disruptions, such as emergency childcare needs.

Facilities staff will need to be familiar with what needs to happen if staff should not come into work and any building closures should be addressed in a consistent manner.

Communicating with staff is key in all these instances, so make sure that the communication plan is clear, approved, and aligned with communication from other departments. Also ensure that managers are on board and understand what is required.

Preventive maintenance

Bad weather and high winds can expose any building flaws, especially in areas such as roofs or windows. Before winter comes, carry out a condition survey to identify any potential problems, and prioritise them for repair.

Similarly, regularly inspect heating systems and any other plant required for emergencies, such as backup generators. Proactive maintenance and regular inspections will help reduce the chance of failure when these bits of kit are most needed. Consider setting additional “winter” KPIs to help track and monitor those tasks that need to be given higher priority during this time.

Ventilation can help to reduce the spread of winter viruses. Options such as opening windows may become less appealing as it turns colder, and so mechanical ventilation will be relied upon. Again, preventive maintenance will help ensure that all systems are functioning well.

Slips and trips

Snow and ice are two obvious winter problems that can be a hindrance to any business. Make sure that supplies of grit are fully stocked, and that weather warnings are regularly checked so that the grit is used when needed. Staff employed to spread grit need proper personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as a map of where to grit, and priority areas. Keep records of where and when gritting takes place and fully train staff.

Do not forget inside the building too — staff bringing snow and ice in on their shoes can create slippery surfaces, so consider adding extra mats at the front doors to help keep the building clean and to absorb any extra wetness.

Also remember that slips and trips are not just isolated to times when snow falls. Darker mornings and evenings can cause more accidents, as can autumnal leaf fall. As part of maintenance checks, ensure external lighting is adequate and that entrances and pathways are kept clear of leaf litter and debris.

Staff working outdoors

As part of the maintenance team there might be people who are regularly working outdoors. Although minimum working temperatures do not apply for these workers, there is, however, still a duty of care to ensure that people are not working in unsafe conditions. This could mean that managers need to look at rotas to avoid staff working outside in the cold for long periods of time, as well as making sure there are adequate facilities for people to warm up and take a break. Additional PPE to account for the weather can also be appropriate, eg having good waterproofs.

Equip fleet vehicles

Make sure fleet vehicles (including grey fleet vehicles) are prepared for wintery conditions. This means making a considered decision as to whether winter tyres are necessary, as well as asking staff to undertake some basic checks on weather and road conditions before deciding to drive. It is also a good idea to put together a car “winter pack”, including a blanket, in-car phone charger and snow shovel. Staff can supplement this with personal items that could include warm clothing and food.

Managing sickness

Along with bad weather comes the dreaded winter flu. Managing sickness will be important. Facilities and Health and Safety managers can play a significant role in reducing the impact of staff illness spreading. For example, by stocking up on soap and alcohol gels and working to promote “hands, face, space” messaging and other good behaviours to reduce the spread infections.

Furthermore, don’t forget that winter doesn’t always mean catching a cold. For some, it can also bring about the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) as well as a propensity for less exercise and a change in diet. The onset of winter can make any pre-existing mental health conditions worse. Keep this in mind; perhaps renew or re-launch any wellness campaigns or promote any mental

support that is offered by the business.

Summary

In short, plan ahead. Make sure that a winter plan is in place, any maintenance is carried out and that the business is ready should the worst happen. If bad weather does strike, then remember to review how it went afterwards and implement any changes that might be necessary.

Contact us if you require further information.

Published · Updated

Are Health and Safety Audits Essential?

Health and Safety ServicesIn today’s fast-evolving workplace, conducting regular health and safety audits has become more important than ever. Companies are operating in dynamic environments with ever-changing regulations, technological advancements, and new health risks. Here’s why regular audits are essential for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace in 2024:

  1. Stay Ahead of Compliance Requirements

Regulatory bodies are continuously updating health and safety standards, especially in response to increased awareness of environmental, mental health, and ergonomic issues. Regular audits help companies stay compliant with these evolving standards, avoiding costly fines and ensuring employee safety.

  1. Identify and Mitigate Hazards Proactively

Safety audits reveal potential hazards before they turn into incidents. By systematically identifying risks—whether it’s an equipment malfunction, inadequate emergency exits, or repetitive strain issues—companies can address them proactively, reducing the chance of injuries and operational disruptions.

  1. Foster a Culture of Safety

Regular audits demonstrate a commitment to safety, encouraging employees to prioritize it in their daily tasks. When employees see that their company values their well-being, it fosters a culture of care, accountability, and shared responsibility for maintaining a safe workplace.

  1. Enhance Operational Efficiency

Safety audits often uncover inefficiencies that can affect productivity. For example, a well-organised workspace not only reduces accident risk but also makes it easier for employees to work effectively. By addressing these factors, companies can streamline operations while improving safety.

Final Thoughts

In 2024, regular health and safety audits aren’t just a regulatory requirement—they’re a proactive strategy to protect employees, optimize operations, and build a safety-conscious workplace culture. By investing in these audits, companies create a safer, more productive environment for everyone involved.

Contact us if you require further information.

Published · Updated

Preparing for Change: Alternatives to Foam Fire Extinguishers as 2025 Ban Approaches

foam-fire-extinguisherStarting July 2025, the use of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers, widely used to combat flammable liquid fires, will be banned due to their harmful environmental and health effects. AFFF extinguishers contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment indefinitely. Research has linked PFAS exposure to numerous health risks, including cancers and immune issues, and their accumulation poses a significant environmental hazard. Many industries now need alternative solutions to maintain effective fire safety while complying with upcoming regulations.

Here are some recommended alternatives for various industry needs:

  1. General Building Safety
  • Water Extinguishers: Effective for Class A fires involving materials like wood, paper, and textiles.
  • Water Mist Extinguishers: Safe for fires involving solids, liquids, and even electrical equipment, making them versatile and environmentally friendly.
  • CO2 Extinguishers: Ideal for electrical fires, these also offer a clean, residue-free option.
  1. Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities
  • Dry Powder Extinguishers: Suitable for Class A, B, and C fires, though their residue may require clean up in confined spaces.
  • Fluorine-Free Foams (F3): Environmentally safer and effective on liquid fires; these create a seal over the flammable liquid, preventing vapor release.
  • C6 Foams: These contain shorter-chain PFAS, which are more easily broken down, though their safety continues to be evaluated.
  1. Food and Hospitality Industries
  • Wet Chemical Extinguishers: Essential for kitchens, especially for fires involving cooking oils and fats, where they effectively cool and neutralize flames.
  • Water Mist: Safe for use around delicate equipment and in environments where cleanliness is crucial.
  1. Automotive and Transportation Sectors
  • Dry Powder or CO2 Extinguishers: Suitable for garages or areas with mixed hazards, including electrical risks.
  • Fluorine-Free Foam: For fuel or oil-related fires, this foam offers a comparable solution to traditional AFFF without the environmental drawbacks.

Businesses should plan now to transition their equipment, as proper disposal of existing AFFF extinguishers will also be required by certified hazardous waste disposal services. This proactive approach will ensure compliance with the 2025 deadline and maintain a safe, environmentally responsible fire safety system.

Contact us if you have any questions.

Published · Updated

Reduce Workplace Illness with Early Detection & Preventive Measures

risk assessment

Reduce Workplace Illness with Early Detection & Preventive Measures

Over 1.7 million workers in the UK suffered from work-related illnesses in 2022 alone. This figure highlights the critical importance of preventive measures and early detection of health risks to protect employees and ensure the smooth running of businesses.

By proactively managing these risks, companies can reduce absenteeism, improve productivity, and avoid costly legal implications.

The Importance of Prevention in the Workplace

Preventive measures are crucial for creating a safe and healthy work environment. Hazards such as prolonged exposure to harmful substances and poor air quality can lead to serious health problems over time. These risks can manifest as musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory illnesses, and occupational cancers.

By implementing preventive strategies, employers can mitigate risks before they become serious threats.

Steps for effective preventative measures

  • Comprehensive Risk Assessments
  • Implementation of Control Measures
  • Health Surveillance and Monitoring

The benefits of early detection and prevention

Proactively managing health risks in the workplace provides numerous benefits, both for employees and employers. Some of these include:

Reduced Absenteeism: By preventing illnesses and injuries, businesses can reduce the number of days lost to sickness, helping maintain productivity and morale.

Lower Costs: Early detection and intervention can prevent costly medical treatments, compensation claims, and lost productivity due to long-term illnesses.

Increased Employee Engagement: A strong focus on health and safety fosters a positive work environment, leading to higher employee satisfaction and engagement.

Legal Compliance: Regular risk assessments, surveillance, and monitoring ensure that businesses comply with health and safety regulations, reducing the risk of legal action or fines.

We can help:

We are committed to helping businesses protect their workforce by emphasising preventive measures and early detection of health risks. Our team of highly qualified occupational health and safety specialists provide a range of services, including:

  • Comprehensive workplace risk assessments tailored to your industry and specific hazards.
  • Health surveillance programmes for employees exposed to physical, chemical, or environmental risks.
  • Training and education to ensure that your team is fully aware of workplace hazards and how to minimise them.
  • Ongoing health monitoring to identify and manage health risks early, reducing the likelihood of long-term issues.
  • Noise assessments to protect employees from excessive noise levels.
  • LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) testing to ensure that extraction systems for dust, fumes, and vapours remain effective and compliant with COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations.
  • Occupational exposure monitoring to accurately measure employees’ exposure to hazardous substances like chemicals, dust, and fumes

Occupational hygiene is the science of anticipating, recognising, evaluating, and controlling workplace conditions that may cause workers’ injury or illness. It focuses on identifying and mitigating health risks arising from exposure to hazardous substances, noise, dust, chemicals, and other physical, biological, and ergonomic factors in the workplace.

Surveys and assessments include – exposure monitoring, vibration assessments, noise assessments, air quality monitoring, LEV maintenance.

Contact us for further information.

 

Published · Updated

Emergency Response Plan – Monkey Pox

Employers have been advised to develop an emergency response plan for monkey pox (mpox), so they are better prepared to manage a potential outbreak of the infectious disease, especially any strains that have not been reported yet in the UK.

Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is related to the smallpox virus. It primarily spreads through close contact with infected animals or humans, contaminated materials like bedding or clothing, and respiratory droplets. Symptoms can include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Exhaustion
  • A rash that develops into fluid-filled lesions, often starting on the face before spreading to other parts of the body.

The rash usually goes through several stages before forming scabs and falling off, and the illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

What to do if you catch it:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Contact a healthcare provider if you suspect monkeypox. Testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
  2. Isolate Yourself: To avoid spreading the virus to others, stay in isolation until the rash has healed and all scabs have fallen off.
  3. Follow Treatment: There’s no specific treatment for monkeypox, but supportive care can help alleviate symptoms. In some cases, antiviral medications like tecovirimat may be recommended.
  4. Manage Symptoms: Rest, stay hydrated, and take over-the-counter medications for fever or pain relief as needed.
  5. Prevent Spread: Avoid close contact with others, and be sure to avoid touching or sharing clothing or bedding with others while you’re contagious.

Monkeypox is generally mild but can be more severe in people with weakened immune systems, young children, and pregnant women.

Here is a link to an article written by IOSH.

UK employers advised to develop emergency response plans for mpox | IOSH magazine

If you require further information, contact us.