HSE launches manufacturing inspection initiative focusing on respiratory risks from silica Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors have begun a targeted inspection initiative focusing on manufacturing businesses where materials that contain silica are used. This will include brick and tile manufacturers and foundries. Exposure to airborne particles of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) can lead to life-changing respiratory conditions such […]

As part of July’s Hazard of the Month, Weather, we’re highlighting two key areas: Alcohol and Drug Awareness & Legionella. Alcohol and Drug Awareness During the summer months, it is often observed that there is an increased alcohol and recreational drug use. There are a number of reasons this could be – including more opportunities (such […]

Hot spots: fire hazards multiply to threaten construction sites While UK construction output witnessed a decline in the year of and following the Covid pandemic, construction fires in the latest ONS figures show an increase in incidents compared to previous years. Despite calls for greater professional competency and better technology available, fire hazards are only […]

Sustainability is a hot topic across all industries at the moment, not least the construction industry, where PQQs and SSIPs are increasingly focused on environmental issues – and rightly so! The built environment accounts for 39% of annual carbon emissions worldwide, made up of both operational carbon, which is the ongoing carbon emissions from its […]

Mind celebrates milestone Mental health charity Mind is celebrating its national partner Dunelm becoming the 2,500th organisation to sign up to the Mental Health at Work Commitment. Designed for organisations of all sizes from all sectors, the Mental Health at Work Commitment, part of the Mental Health at Work Programme, is a simple framework and is based […]

We all have a responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint and waste where possible. From individuals, to SMEs, to corporations, there are actions we can take at every level to minimise our environmental impact. This blog looks at actions those in the construction industry, which is responsible for 10% of all carbon dioxide emissions in […]

Gladiator sequel crew members injured in stunt sequence on set Several crew members filming the Gladiator sequel in Morocco have been injured in a stunt accident on set. The film’s production company Paramount Pictures said the injuries were non life-threatening and happened while shooting a planned stunt sequence. The crew members were “all in stable […]

Woodworking businesses targeted on HSE inspections to tackle occupational lung disease Many woodworking businesses are ‘endangering workers’ lives’ by not implementing measures required to prevent or control exposure to wood dust says the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Supported by HSE’s Dust Kills campaign, which provides free advice to businesses and workers on the control […]

As part of June’s Hazard of the Month, Carbon Emissions, we’re highlighting two key areas: Environmental Awareness and Resource Efficiency. Environmental Awareness Proof of environmental training is becoming increasingly in-demand by principal contractors and SSIPs, as environmental issues take a more prominent place in the selection of suppliers and contractors, and the planning of works. The built environment currently accounts […]

Serco fined £2.25m after death of custody officer Security firm, Serco, has been fined £2.25 million for health and safety failings following the death of custody officer Lorraine Barwell. Ms Barwell, a 54-year-old grandmother was kicked twice, once in the body and once in the head, at Blackfriars Crown Court in 2015 during the restraint […]