Features

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    Electrical installations in hazardous areas: why effective commissioning, installation and inspection are crucial

    Machinery designed specifically for potentially explosive atmospheres will contain sparks that could trigger a fire or explosion. It’s essential it undergoes an independent inspection prior to initial use, in case the installer compromises the manufacturer’s design, invalidating the equipment and creating a potentially dangerous situation.

    By Ian Wright, TÜV SÜD on 28 June 2024

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    Lithium-ion batteries: a growing fire risk

    Lithium-ion batteries used to power equipment such as e-bikes and electric vehicles are increasingly linked to serious fires in workplaces and residential buildings, so it’s essential those in charge of such environments assess and control the risks.

    By Matt Humby, Firechief® Global on 28 June 2024

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    Fire safety: the benefits of using certificated providers

    Employers often need to call on external providers to carry out and implement fire safety risk assessments, and using providers certificated by a recognised third-party certification body will provide confidence that the company or person has the necessary competence for the work.

    By Ken Bullock, BAFE Fire Safety Register on 03 July 2024

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    What is the future of work? British Safety Council hosts roundtable to find out

    Keeping people safe, healthy and happy at work in a world that has changed immeasurably since the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act 50 years ago presents huge challenges, but also significant opportunities, a panel of experts said during a roundtable hosted by British Safety Council in central London on 8 July.

    By Kerry Reals on 29 July 2024

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    Railway worker safety: the vital role of slip-resistant footwear

    Workers in the rail industry can be at particular risk of slips, trips and falls due to the diverse nature of the tasks and working environments, but the likelihood of injury can be reduced through the careful selection and provision of suitable slip-resistant footwear.

    By Simon Ash, HAIX on 29 July 2024

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    Global warming at work: why you need to protect your employees

    With the UK predicted to be facing an increase in the frequency of heatwaves and rising average temperatures, it is essential employers begin taking steps now to protect workers from the risk of heat-related accidents and illness.

    By Liz Longman, Virtual College by Netex on 29 July 2024

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    The science of Slipology – how scientific methods can slash the risk of slip accidents this ‘Sliptember’

    Traditional slip prevention methods often fall short because they rely on assumptions and general practices rather than solid evidence, but a scientific approach will identify why they occur and how they can be prevented.

    By Christian Harris, Slip Safety Services on 29 July 2024

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    How can we reduce stubbornly high rates of slips, trips and falls?

    While inexpensive precautions for preventing slips, trips and falls have a part to play in any day-to-day risk management system, more expensive options, such as replacing damaged floor coverings, are often the most effective long-term measure for minimising the danger to staff and visitors.

    By Phil Jones, William Martin on 22 August 2024

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    The UK Hearing Conservation Association: how we work to promote the protection of the nation’s hearing health

    The UK Hearing Conservation Association is a multi-disciplinary association that strives to prevent damage to the nation’s hearing health and other noise-related health conditions through a combination of practical, evidenced and cost-effective campaigns, awareness-raising activities and best-practice advice. It is therefore a great forum for those wishing to keep abreast of the latest developments around hearing health – both in the workplace and in recreational settings.

    By Leah Philpott, member, UKHCA At Work Group  on 14 March 2025

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    Safety in numbers

    Conducting 150,000 interviews in 140 countries, Lloyd’s Register Foundation’s World Risk Poll is uniquely positioned to tell us about harm at work. But can information also spur change?

    By Belinda Liversedge on 04 June 2025