Date
Jun 3rd 2024
Welcome to the June’s update on Health & Safety matters.
To stay informed with the latest updates on regulations, initiatives, and events in the field of health and safety watch out for our highlights recent significant events.
Upcoming Changes and Projections for later in 2024
1. Revised Manual Handling Operations Regulations (MHOR)
Starting in October 2024, the MHOR will undergo significant revisions to include new ergonomic guidelines aimed at reducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers. Key changes include:
- Enhanced Risk Assessments: Employers must now use more detailed and specific assessment tools to identify risks associated with manual handling tasks.
- Ergonomic Training: Mandatory training sessions focusing on ergonomics and safe handling practices.
- Employee Involvement: Greater emphasis on involving employees in developing and implementing safe handling procedures.
2. Updated Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs)
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) plans to update the WELs for various hazardous substances to align with the latest scientific research.
Key substances under review include:
- Silica Dust: Stricter limits on occupational exposure to silica dust, particularly in construction and manufacturing sectors.
- Diesel Engine Exhaust Emissions (DEEE): Lowering the permissible exposure levels to protect workers in industries such as logistics and transportation.
3. Mental Health and Wellbeing Regulations
In response to growing awareness of mental health issues in the workplace, new regulations will be introduced by December 2024 to ensure better mental health support for employees.
Highlights include:
- Mandatory Mental Health First Aid Training: Employers will be required to provide mental health first aid training to designated staff members.
- Stress Risk Assessments: Comprehensive assessments to identify and mitigate work-related stress factors.
- Wellbeing Programs: Implementation of workplace wellbeing programs focusing on stress reduction, resilience building, and overall mental health.
Recent Events in Health & Safety
1. National Safety Council Conference 2024
The annual National Safety Council Conference held in Birmingham in June 2024 was a resounding success, attracting over 5,000 health and safety professionals. Keynote speakers included HSE Chief Executive Sarah Albon, who emphasized the importance of adapting to new challenges in workplace safety. The conference featured:
- Workshops on Emerging Risks: Sessions focused on addressing emerging risks such as AI integration in workplaces and managing remote worker safety.
- Exhibitions: Showcasing the latest safety equipment and technology, including innovative PPE and automated safety monitoring systems.
2. HSE Prosecution
In May 2024, the HSE prosecuted a business in Derby for failing to comply with safety regulations, resulting in a serious accident. The company was fined £500,000 and mandated to implement rigorous safety improvements. This case underscores the importance of adhering to health and safety standards to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.
3. Safe Workplaces for All
The HSE continues to promote inclusive safety practices focusing on:
- Diverse Workforce Safety: Ensuring safety measures account for the needs of a diverse workforce, including workers with disabilities and those from different cultural backgrounds.
- Accessible Training: Providing safety training materials in multiple languages and formats.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging employers to engage with their local communities to raise awareness about workplace safety.
Stay Connected
Stay up-to-date with the latest in health and safety by subscribing to our newsletters. For more information, visit the HSE website or contact us directly. info@smeadvisor.co.uk | 0330 333 4997