HSE Prosecution: Building Company Fined After Extension Put Family at Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
HSE Prosecution: Building Company Fined After Unsafe Extension Put Family at Risk A recent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecution has highlighted the potentially devastating consequences of poor planning and inadequate health and safety management during domestic building work. Adam’s Building Construction Ltd, a Yorkshire-based building company, and its director have been... read more
Cement Company Fined £1 Million After Preventable Machinery Fatality: What Every Employer Can Learn
A tragic workplace fatality has resulted in a £1 million fine for a Gloucestershire cement manufacturer after an employee was crushed by a 1.6-tonne concrete counterweight inside a cement bagging plant. While every prosecution highlights the devastating consequences of poor health and safety management, this latest case serves as a particularly... read more
Face Fit Testing Explained: Why It Matters, When It’s Required and How to Stay Compliant
Face Fit Testing Explained: Everything Employers Need to Know When employees rely on Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), simply issuing a mask isn't enough. If the respirator doesn't fit the wearer correctly, contaminated air can bypass the filter and enter the breathing zone, significantly reducing the level of protection. In many industries, this... read more
HSE Fatal Injury Statistics 2025/26: Progress Worth Celebrating – But No Room for Complacency
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published its latest Work-related Fatal Injuries in Great Britain statistics, revealing that 126 workers lost their lives in workplace accidents during 2025/26. While this represents one of the lowest annual totals on record outside the pandemic years, every fatality represents a person who never... read more
Hot weather and work; how hot is too hot and what can you do?
Hot Weather at Work: Employer Responsibilities During Heatwaves and HSE Guidance for 2026 As temperatures continue to rise across the UK, employers are being reminded of their legal responsibilities to protect workers from the risks associated with hot weather and workplace heat stress. If you have questions and are (or want... read more
What is an LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) Commissioning report?
When you have LEV installed, you must then have a report from the installer which summarises how the installation has met successfully with the design criteria set for the LEV. Both of these tasks are always carried out by competent engineers experienced in the design and validation of LEV, often... read more
Engineered stone dust inhalation, the dangers of respirable crystalline silica (RCS)
Dry cutting of stone and stone-like materials can give rise to high levels of respirable crystalline silica (RCS), and this can lead to severe health problems for employees. Don't be fooled; even wet cutting cannot control dust levels - you will always need a face-fitted FFP3 mask. You might not... read more
Metal Fabrication Company Fined After Seven Workers Develop Vibration-Related Illness
HAVS can be a difficult hazard to manage. If you need help and support, consider joining the hundreds of businesses already using our competent person support service, Safety~net. Contact us or request a call back for more information. A metal fabrication company operating at Immingham Docks has been fined after seven workers... read more
Forge fined £750,000 after worker dragged into lathe and killed
Before we look at this tragic accident, please make yourself aware of the standards which should be applied to ensure this doesn't happen in your workplace. The HSE is clear that emery cloth must never be applied by hand to a rotating workpiece. Contact with moving parts can lead to rapid... read more
Maintenance Company Fined £400,000 After Worker Dies from Toxic Glue Exposure
This accident illustrates the breadth of hazards which a competent health and safety professional must consider. Skin exposure to solvents, the potential for flammable atmospheres, the possible narcotic effects of inhalation of solvent vapours (perhaps leading to a serious road traffic accident), the potential for fire and explosion, the knowledge... read more
New HSE Video Series: How to Control Metalworking-Fluid (MWF) Mist During CNC Machining
HSE has released a practical four-part video series focusing on how to control exposure to metalworking-fluid (MWF) mist during CNC machining. The films demonstrate how effective local exhaust ventilation (LEV), visualisation techniques and straightforward monitoring tools can significantly reduce respiratory and skin risks for operators. Metalworking fluids are essential for cooling... read more
Sector-Specific Insights & Recommendations from HSE’s Latest Statistics
Construction Key Data & Risks In 2024/25, the construction sector recorded 35 worker fatalities, the highest of any sector. From HSE’s Labour Force Survey data, construction also has one of the highest self-reported rates of non-fatal injury: 2,388 per 100,000 workers. In terms of illness, the construction sector’s rate of self-reported... read more
HSE Workplace Health & Safety Statistics for 2024/25: What You Need to Know
The Health and Safety Executive has published the latest annual statistics covering work-related ill health, injury, and fatalities in Great Britain for 2024/25. HSE Workplace Statistics 2024/25. These figures serve as a vital barometer for the overall health of workplaces across industries — and they underline several key areas that... read more
Safe Storage of Lithium-Ion Batteries: Critical Guidance for Workplace Safety
Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere — powering forklifts, mobile devices, e-bikes, energy storage systems and more. Despite their benefits, they pose a serious fire and explosion hazard when improperly stored or handled. As safety professionals and business owners, we must treat them with the same respect as other hazardous items. This post... read more
P50 service-free fire extinguishers, could they be the right choice for your business?
P50 service‑free fire extinguishers — what they are and whether they’re right for your site Service‑free extinguishers are becoming a popular option across UK sites — and the P50 family (manufactured in Great Britain) is one of the better‑known ranges. They’re marketed as lightweight, corrosion‑proof composite extinguishers that are service‑free for... read more
HSE launches isocyanates awareness campaign: Protecting worker health in 2025
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently announced a new isocyanates awareness and inspection campaign aimed at reducing the health risks posed by isocyanate exposure in UK workplaces. As the HSE’s attention turns increasingly toward occupational lung disease and chemical safety, this initiative re-emphasises the urgency for duty-holders to... read more
Health Surveillance for Occupational Asthma: What You Need to Know
Health Surveillance for Occupational Asthma: What You Need to Know (G402) Why this matters Occupational asthma (OA) remains a serious and preventable work-related disease. Exposure to sensitising agents in the workplace — even at low levels — may trigger asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals. Early detection and intervention are vital to prevent... read more
Why Health Surveillance Matters When Working with Silica Dust
A huge number of workers are exposed to respirable crystalline silica every day. We have been working with clients and delivering training for many years to help our clients and the industry understand the risks. The image to the right shows you the maximum you can be exposed to in... read more
HSE Inspections Reveal “Serious Gaps” in Noise Protection
Recent inspections by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have uncovered alarming shortcomings in how businesses are protecting their workers from excessive noise. The findings reveal a widespread lack of understanding and implementation of basic hearing protection measures, putting a significant portion of the workforce at risk of permanent hearing... read more
Check your subcontractors (use SSIP Approval): Rogue Gas Fitter Jailed for Carrying Out Unsafe Work
We all expect other businesses to operate to the same high standards as we do. You invest in your people and pride yourself on completing jobs on time and to exacting standards of quality and safety. However, not all businesses, or people, are the same, and sadly, sometimes we can... read more
Joinery Firm Fined £10,000 for Failing to Protect Its Workers from Wood Dust
HSE visits remain at a level we have not seen since the 1990's with clients operating in woodworking being particularly targeted by HSE Inspectors reviewing exposure to wood dust. If you have a joinery workshop or similar and aren't sure if you have adequate precautions in place, take action now... read more
Company Fined £1 Million After Worker Crushed by Reversing HGV
Workplace transport safety is a key safety hazard for any business and one of the specific items we review in detail for our Safety~net competent person support clients during any workplace audit. Its can be an area which is missed by internal teams concentrating on key safety issues within the... read more
Recirculating LEV – New HSE Research Highlights Risks and Good Practice
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently published new research into recirculating local exhaust ventilation (Recirculating LEV) systems – equipment designed to capture dusts, mists, fumes and other airborne contaminants before they can be breathed in. While most LEV systems discharge filtered air outside the building, some clean and return... read more
HSE publishes latest work-related fatal injury statistics
The latest HSE fatal injury statistics report reveals that while the long-term trend in fatal injuries to workers has shown a downward trend, the recent numbers have remained stubbornly consistent with pre-pandemic levels. This suggests a plateau in safety improvements that should be a cause for concern for employers and... read more
Working from ladders – updated guidance from HSE
Working from ladders and working at height more generally have always been the number 1 cause of workplace fatalities in the UK. Across all industries and sectors, and from heights ranging from several metres to less than 1 metre, the consequences of a fall from height are tragic and often... read more
The SSIP Core Criteria and guidance on how to get SSIP accredited
SSIP stands for Safety Schemes in Procurement. It's an umbrella organisation supported by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Its main goal is to streamline the health and safety pre-qualification process for contractors and consultants (suppliers) who want to work for buyers (clients). It aims to reduce duplication, time, and... read more
The Gateway Process within the Building Safety Act
The Gateway Process within the Building Safety Act 2022: A Summary of Purpose and Application If you need help and support on health and safety matters, consider becoming a member of our Safety~net support service. Please note that support and advice on this and other topics covered on our website are... read more
Fantastic opportunity to attend a free HSE supported event
Brilliant free HSE / WWT / IOSH H&S event here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bristol-and-west-iosh-branch-health-awareness-day-tickets-1308099473739 https://lnkd.in/eKz93dtY Please book your tickets for free using the link above, and we'll look forward to seeing you there, whether you're in the construction industry or you have contractors being used in your workplace, and you need to be... read more
Building Safety Act FAQ
Building Safety Act FAQ for Small and Medium-Sized Contractors If you need help and support on health and safety matters, consider becoming a member of our Safety~net support service. Please note that support and advice on this and other topics covered on our website are provided exclusively for members of Safety~net,... read more
Key differences in the application of the Building Safety Act between England and Wales
Summary: Application of the Building Safety Act If you need help and support on health and safety matters, consider becoming a member of our Safety~net support service. Please note that support and advice on this and other topics covered on our website are provided exclusively for members of Safety~net, our Competent... read more
Building Safety Act & SSIP: A Match Made for Safer Construction
Building Safety Act & SSIP: A Match Made for Safer Construction The Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA 2022) has fundamentally shifted the landscape of UK construction, placing unprecedented emphasis on competence, accountability, and rigorous safety standards, especially for Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs). For small and medium-sized contractors, navigating these new regulations can... read more
3D printing safety: emissions, safety controls and health effects
We have been involved in 3D printing and additive manufacture safety for over 25 years from its very earliest days. We have worked with and continue to support industry leaders in this field across plastics, metals and resins from small start ups to multinational companies with specialist divisions catering for... read more
Safe storage of lithium-ion batteries
More and more of our clients have a new hazard to address, the safe storage of lithium-ion batteries. Indeed the total amount of batteries stored is expected to increase 7X over the next 7 years. We have all heard the annoucements on aircraft about overheating batteries in consumer devices and... read more
Working safely at height – safety harness inspections
Ensuring the safety of workers at height is paramount, and the proper inspection of safety harnesses plays a critical role in this endeavour. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides detailed guidance on this subject in their leaflet INDG367, "Inspecting fall arrest equipment made from webbing or rope." Understanding the Importance... read more
Wood dust monitoring – HSE to focus on management of exposure
We have carried out wood dust monitoring for clients for almost 30 years working with everyone from small local woodworking shops to the Kings Foundation. There is a clear requirement to have this carried out under Regulation 7 of the COSHH Regulations but the Health and Safety Executive have recently... read more
The Benefits of Having an External Competent Person for Health and Safety
We have worked in health and safety for over 30 years and have always worked in support of internal health and safety managers. We provide the additional advice and support which is required to ensure you can answer the question: how much is enough? If you need support to manage a... read more
SSIP Accreditation, our simple guide to fast and easy SSIP approval
If there is one aspect of running a contracting or construction sector business which our clients have a grumble about its usually the process of gaining (or often regaining) an SSIP approval. Over recent years it has become more and more demanding in terms of evidence, and that means time and... read more
Silica in stone worktops: inhalation of respirable crystalline silica (RCS)
We have been making clients and the wider community aware of the hazards of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) for many years. In our work supporting the HSE's Working Well Together Campaign, we ran a workshop at Bristol University back in September 2011 to raise awareness in the construction and contracting... read more
HSE Guidance issued, Grid scale battery energy storage systems
We have worked to support renewables sector clients for many years and are currently employed by many clients in this sector with combined revenues in the billions. If you are such a business or wish to enter the UK market please do contact us or request a call back to... read more
Hand Arm Vibration (HAVS) still misunderstood by business
The Health and Safety Executive has found that businesses are still failing to understand and properly risk assess the potential harm caused to workers from Hand Arm Vibration HAV. A huge number of tools can be the source of harmful levels of vibration and it is often difficult and technically challenging... read more
The Building Safety Act and it’s impact on a typical electrical and mechanical contractor
Understanding the Building Safety Act: Building Safety Act for Small M&E Contractors The Building Safety Act (BSA), which came into force in England and Wales in October 2023, represents a significant overhaul in the construction industry, driven by the findings of the Hackitt report. This legislation aims to enhance safety standards... read more
HSE Safety Statistics 2024 have been published
Every year HSE updates its statistics for the UK. All of the information gathered from the wheels and workings of government, the report made under RIDDOR and the information passed back from the NHS come together to form a picture of how we are doing as a nation. We have a... read more
Understanding Self-Test Emergency Lighting
Emergency lighting is a critical component of any building's safety system, ensuring that occupants can safely evacuate during an emergency. Self-test emergency lighting systems take this one step further by automating the testing process, which traditionally required manual intervention. Some lighting units can be difficult to access and most workplaces... read more
Guidance on CDM Compliance for Small builders
If you have questions about your own project regarding CDM Compliance or would like to explore becoming a member of our Safety~net competent person support scheme please contact us or request a callback. Further guidance from the Construction Leadership Group (CLG) can be found here which contains helpful case studies examining... read more
Ensuring Welfare in Construction: A Guide Based on HSE Guidance
In the construction industry, the well-being of workers is paramount. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK provides comprehensive guidance to ensure that welfare facilities are adequately provided on construction sites. This blog post will outline the key aspects of these guidelines, helping contractors and clients understand their... read more
Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for Electrical Equipment Fires
When it comes to fire safety, knowing which type of fire extinguisher to use is crucial, especially for electrical equipment fires. Electrical fires can be particularly dangerous due to the risk of electric shock and the potential for rapid escalation. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best fire extinguishers... read more
Understanding the Dangers of Metal Powders in SLS Additive Manufacture
Navigating the Risks of Metal Powders in Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) Printing We have supported metal Additive Manufacture safety since its very early days in the 2010's and worked extensively with the UK's largest installed base of 3D printers for a major Blue Chip company. We worked onsite multiple days per... read more
Choosing the Right Emergency Lighting: Maintained vs. Non-Maintained
When it comes to emergency lighting, understanding the difference between maintained and non-maintained systems is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which type is best for your building. Maintained Emergency Lighting Maintained emergency lights are designed to be on at all times. These lights are... read more
Emergency lighting test requirements (inc self maintained)
Emergency lighting is crucial for ensuring the safety of building occupants during power failures or emergencies, regular testing and maintenance of these systems are essential to ensure they function correctly when needed. Legal Requirements In the UK, it is a legal requirement under both Building Regulations and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety)... read more
HSE refreshes asbestos guidance
Refreshed asbestos guidance published Asbestos is the greatest cause of work-related deaths in Great Britain. Around 5,000 people die every year from asbestos-related diseases which typically take decades to develop and cannot be cured. HSE’s asbestos pages on the website have been revised to: simplify the navigation and help you easily find the... read more
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