Major working from home study reveals employee and employer divide
A global study from Microsoft shows employers and employees disagree when it comes to productivity levels while working from home.
The survey interviewed 20,000 staff across 11 countries. It revealed that 87% of workers felt working from home was just as efficient than being in the office, while 80% of managers disagreed.
Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella told the BBC that the divide needs resolving, particularly as office numbers are unlikely to return to pre-pandemic levels.
“We have to get past what we describe as ‘productivity paranoia’, because all of the data we have that shows that 80% plus of the individual people feel they’re very productive – except their management thinks that they’re not productive.
Read more on the SHP website.
HSE launches campaign to combat serious aches, pains and strains in construction
Lifting and moving heavy objects on construction sites is harming the health of thousands of brickies and builders to such a degree every aspect of their lives is affected.
Experts at the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are warning construction workers are picking up injuries and conditions that can stop them working and leave them struggling to stand, walk, or sit down.
HSE inspectors will be carrying out 1,000 inspections in October and November checking how workers are moving heavy or bulky materials.
The law requires employers to prevent the ill health of their workers, which includes injuries to muscles, bones, joints and nerves that can develop over time, known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). However, recent figures show around 40,000 people in the construction industry suffer an MSD each year, which can cause years of agonising aches and pains.
Learn more about the campaign on the HSE website.
One in five employers only communicate their menopause support on a quarterly or less frequent basis, says Peppy
Of the employers who offer menopause support, one in five (18%) only communicate on the subject on a quarterly or less frequent basis, according to new research from Peppy.
More positively, 40% do communicate on a weekly basis but nevertheless, the digital health platform suggests that many menopausal employees may not receive the support they need because they are unaware of its availability.
Kathy Abernethy, Director of Menopause Services, Peppy said: “The communication of employee benefits serves several purposes – from alerting staff of its availability to encouraging usage. For it to be really effective it’s important that a range of communication methods are used, and that a range of messages are delivered.”
For more on the research, visit the SHP website.
Guilty plea following death of nursing home resident
Following a fatal incident investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland, a County Down company, M Care Limited, was fined £20,000 at Belfast Crown Court.
The company pleaded guilty to a single health and safety breach following the death of a patient at a nursing home.
The prosecution arose following an investigation into a choking incident that occurred on 21 November 2016 at Ringdufferin Nursing Home in Killyleagh, County Down. Mr Edward McCullough, an 89-year-old resident in the nursing home, choked and subsequently died while eating a pancake. Mr McCullough was on a pureed diet as he had difficulties swallowing and was at risk of choking.
Kyle Carrick, head of HSENI’s Major Investigation Team said, “Choking can result in serious and fatal injuries and is avoidable in cases where there is a known risk. Effective communication of patient requirements to all relevant staff is vital to ensure patient safety.
Read more on the HSM website
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