Week Commencing 27/01/2025 – In The News

Industries taking toll on employee wellbeing revealed

A new study has revealed which careers are most impactful on the wellbeing of those who work in those industries.

The research, conducted by Phoenix Health & Safety, looked at how different industries affected the physical and mental health of workers, as well as how workers felt their jobs impacted on their social life.

Based on the findings, the ‘arts, entertainment and recreation’ industry was found to be the sector that had the most negative impact on the wellbeing of those who work in it.

Whilst this industry ranked as average in terms of the impact on the physical health of people working in it, it had the 3rd biggest impact on mental health, and the 2nd most disruption to social life. Over half (56%) of people working in the industry said they had experienced stress and anxiety due to work, whilst 53% said their work impacted their social or family life.

Read more on the HSM website.

Survey highlights gaps in Building Safety Act knowledge

New research from Watco, the industrial paint and repair products specialist, has examined the complexities affecting facilities managers (FM) within the building, construction and refurbishment sector, uncovering several challenges around legislation and maintenance.

The survey found that just 34% of FMs know what the Building Safety Act is and only 26% know how it impacts their role. While less than half (40%) said that they have a good working knowledge of what industry legislations and regulations impact them.

The research follows the introduction of updates to the Building Safety Act which include the requirement of a Golden Thread of information to be developed for each building and kept up to date throughout its lifetime – from design and construction to refurbishment and maintenance. The Golden Thread must consist of accountable, reliable, consistent, secure and accessible information, which FMs may be required to contribute to.

For more on the research visit the HSM website.

Coca-Cola recalls drinks in UK due to chemical levels

A range of Coca-Cola products have been recalled in the UK after the firm’s bottling partner said it had identified “elevated levels” of a chemical called chlorate.

Cans of Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero sent to cafes and restaurants are being withdrawn as well as 6x250ml Appletiser multipacks sent to UK supermarkets.

The announcement follows a larger recall of Coca-Cola products across Europe on Monday.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the firm’s bottling partner, said the risk of illness was “very low”.

The affected cans carry production codes from 328 GE to 338 GE on their base.

The majority of Coca-Cola products, including standard cans, and all glass and plastic bottles sold in the UK are not affected, the firm said.

Learn more on the BBC website.

IOSH comments on AI Opportunities Action Plan

The UK Government has published its AI Opportunities Action Plan, setting out how it plans to lead the way in shaping the future with artificial intelligence (AI).

Ruth Wilkinson, head of policy and public affairs at IOSH, said: “AI holds immense potential to make work safer, healthier and more efficient by preventing people from undertaking hazardous work and high-risk activities, facilitating informed decision-making and learning, and improving job quality and productivity.

“For this reason, IOSH is pleased to see the Government plans for boosting investment in AI opportunities across the UK with the ultimate goal of achieving economic growth, prosperity and social good.”

Read more on the HSM website.

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