8 Top Tips for Factory Safety
Our director, Andrew Ashford CMIOSH, gives some top tips for safety in factories. Over the last 35 years, I’ve gained a lot of experience working in factory environments, from almost 5 years as an apprentice, right through to my current role as a healt …
Back to the Gym – Lift with Care!
As some of my clients will know, I’m currently training for a trek to Everest Base Camp in March and April. This necessarily involves a LOT of walking plus gym work to build cardiovascular endurance, stamina and strength in my back and legs. I’ve been …
Health and Safety in isolation – Why just be legally compliant?
Over the past 22 years, I’ve dealt with organisations of all sizes in many sectors and have seen a variety of approaches to health and safety management. What is consistently true is that no matter how developed an organisation’s systems may be, there …
Debunked! Christmas Health & Safety Myths
Don’t get in a tangle over PAT testing Yes, we know. You’ve probably heard the mistaken rumours about not being allowed to donate second hand toys to the local charity, or that Father Christmas now has to wear a seatbelt in his sleigh. Some myths sound …
Don’t slip up when managing simple risks
The other morning, a friend of mine told me that the temperature was -7ºC when she got into her car to go to work. So there it is – winter is finally here. All of a sudden we start to think of gritting car parks and walkways to reduce the risk of slips …
10 Top Tips to Manage Stress at Work
We all have those days when we’re not feeling great. Maybe we get a little grumpy, or we feel tired for no apparent reason. In many cases this can be put down to an ‘off day’ and we soon recover. But for some it’s not quite that simple. The HSE estimat …
Street Works, Landscaping and the Occupational Ill-Health Time Bomb
Street works, Landscaping and the Occupational Ill-Health Time Bomb Over the last few days, I’ve watched with fascination, not to say a little concern, as workmen finished the street works on a new housing development near my home. First came the prep …
Game, Set and Risk Assessment!
As Wimbledon gets into full swing I’ve been thinking about assessing risks to spectators. I know – you think I’ve lost it, but bear with me. What are the chances of being hit by one of Andy Murray’s finest? How badly might you get hurt? There is a risk …
Safe Management of Contractors
A ‘Contractor’ is anyone you ask to do work for you who is not an employee. This means any trade or profession, any of which could create risks in your workplace, or sue you if they are injured while working for you. If your organisation hires contrac …
Are you still keeping your New Year’s resolution for a safe and healthy workplace?
When it comes to health and safety in the workplace, many people – business owners and employees alike – think it’s purely the domain of a health and safety practitioner. That might be an external consultant, or an individual fulfilling a dedicated rol …