Features

    Ella Roberta

    The simple steps we can take to stem the hidden danger of indoor air pollution

    It’s a simple, obvious truth: the cleaner the air we breathe, the healthier we are. Yet, most of us are inhaling pollution out in the streets as well as in the safety of our homes, offices, schools, hospitals and other buildings – without realising the damage it is causing to our health, nor that there are quick, easy solutions to clean the air and strengthen the health of our communities.

    By Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah CBE, Ella Roberta Foundation on 30 May 2024

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    Sustainable procurement: a win-win for business and the environment

    Implementing sustainable procurement not only protects the environment by conserving natural resources and reducing carbon emissions associated with the production, use and end-of-life of the product or service, it can also reap financial and reputational benefits for the purchasing company.

    By Dr Keith Whitehead C.Env on 04 June 2024

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    Turning the dial on climate change adaptation

    Public and private sector organisations should be taking action to adapt to current and future impacts of extreme weather changes caused by climate change, and an IEMA toolkit provides practical advice on getting started.

    By Chloë Fiddy, IEMA on 04 June 2024

    Man With Light Measurement Monitor BRE

    Why good indoor environmental quality can enhance wellbeing

    Research suggests good indoor environmental quality can enhance the health, wellbeing and productivity of a building’s occupants, so it’s essential for building owners to improve areas like indoor air quality, temperature, lighting and acoustics.

    By Dr Andy Dengel, BRE on 10 June 2024

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    A golden era of safety: 50 years of the Health and Safety at Work Act

    As the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 turns 50 on 31 July, the world of work, both now and in the future, looks markedly different to when this ground-breaking piece of legislation was enacted. Yet, the Act has stood the test of time and its principles remain as relevant now as they did in the summer of ’74 – unlike some of the haircuts from that time.

    By Kerry Reals on 27 June 2024

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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

    Work Boots Railway HAIX

    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