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 feel daunting. However, there are proactive steps you can take to demonstrate your commitment to safety and compliance. One powerful tool in your arsenal? SSIP accreditation through CHAS, SMAS, Constructionline Building Safety Act & SSIP Accreditation.

What is SSIP?

Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) is an umbrella organization that facilitates mutual recognition between health and safety assessment schemes. It helps streamline pre-qualification processes, saving time and resources for both contractors and clients. By achieving SSIP accreditation, you demonstrate that your health and safety management systems meet industry-recognized standards.

How SSIP Aligns with the Building Safety Act

The BSA 2022 places a strong emphasis on competence and organisational capability. Here’s how SSIP accreditation directly addresses these requirements:

Benefits Beyond Compliance: Building Safety Act & SSIP

Beyond fulfilling the requirements of the BSA 2022, SSIP accreditation offers several additional benefits:

• Improved Safety Culture: SSIP encourages a proactive approach to safety, reducing accidents and injuries on site.
• Enhanced Reputation: SSIP accreditation is a recognized mark of quality, enhancing your reputation within the industry.
• Increased Efficiency: Streamlined pre-qualification processes save time and resources.
• Competitive Advantage: SSIP accreditation can give you an edge when bidding for projects.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re a small or medium-sized contractor seeking to demonstrate your commitment to safety and compliance, combining the Building Safety Act & SSIP accreditation is a valuable investment. Start by researching SSIP member schemes and choosing one that aligns with your business needs.

By embracing SSIP accreditation, you not only demonstrate your commitment to safety but also position yourself as a responsible and reliable partner in the evolving landscape of UK construction. It is an investment in your company’s future, your employees’ safety, and the overall integrity of the built environment.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with legal professionals and relevant authorities for specific guidance on the Building Safety Act 2022 and SSIP accreditation.  For more information on the Building Safety Act & SSIP combine and compliment each other, please visit the HSE Guidance site: https://www.hse.gov.uk/building-safety/

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 highly advanced processes and blue chip clients.

If you have questions which need external support please contact our 3D printing and additive manufacture specialist, Roger Hart, directly using this link: Contact Roger Hart

3D Printing Safety: Understanding the Health Risks and Best Practices

3D printing is revolutionizing industries, education, and home workshops, but how safe is it? While desktop 3D printers offer incredible convenience, they also produce emissions that may pose health risks. A recent study published in the Annals of Work Exposures and Health highlights the importance of safety, focusing on potential hazards like ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

If you’re using 3D printers at home, in schools, or in the workplace, understanding safety measures can help you minimize risks and create a healthier printing environment.

Are 3D Printers Safe? What the Research Says

Researchers conducted a survey of 146 workplaces and tested emissions at two sites: a university lab and an engineering workshop. Here’s what they found:

• Ultrafine particle emissions were minimal: When printers were used in well-ventilated spaces, particle concentrations did not rise significantly above background levels.
• VOCs were present, but low: Some chemicals were detected, particularly in enclosed spaces, though concentrations remained within safe limits.
• Workers reported mild symptoms: Although no acute health issues were found, some users experienced fatigue, headaches, dry skin, and respiratory symptoms, which improved on their days off.

3D Printing Safety Tips: How to Reduce Risks

If you’re regularly using a 3D printer, it’s crucial to follow good safety guidelines to protect yourself from potential health hazards. Here are some essential safety tips:

1. Improve Ventilation

Proper airflow is key to safe printing. Here’s what you can do:

• Use 3D printers in a well-ventilated room.
• Consider installing fume extractors or HEPA filters.
• Use enclosures with built-in ventilation systems.

2. Choose Safer 3D Printing Materials

Not all filaments are created equal. Some release more harmful emissions than others.

• PLA is the safest option: It emits fewer particles and VOCs than ABS or Nylon.
• Avoid ABS in poorly ventilated areas: ABS emits higher levels of styrene, which can be harmful.
• Be cautious with resins: If you use resin-based printers, handle them in a well-ventilated area with gloves and eye protection.

3. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Even with ventilation, appropriate safety equipment adds an extra layer of protection.

• Wear gloves when handling resins and solvents.
• Use a dust mask or respirator if sanding or post-processing prints.
• Safety glasses can protect your eyes from flying particles.

4. Keep Your Workspace Clean

Fine plastic particles can accumulate over time, so maintaining a clean workspace is vital.

• Wipe down surfaces regularly with a damp cloth.
• Avoid using compressed air, which can spread particles into the air.
• Store filaments properly to prevent degradation and excessive emissions.

Is 3D Printing Safe for Small Office Use?

Yes, 3D printing can be safe if small scale and proper precautions are taken. Ensure you’re printing in a well-ventilated space, use low-emission materials, and follow best practices for 3D printing safety to minimize exposure to harmful particles and fumes.

Final Thoughts: Prioritizing 3D Printing Safety

While 3D printing is an amazing technology, health and safety should always come first. The good news? If you follow 3D printing safety guidelines, you can continue to print safely and efficiently.  See the HSE Research Report at this link for further information: https://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrhtm/rr1146.htm

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 the batteries which we use in our businesses can be several times larger with consequently higher risks.

Good practice dictates that a dedicated area is used and signed appropriately, that batteries are disconnected from the tools they power when stored and that their charge state is kept at around 60-70%.  Once disconnected you can then apply simple good practices, not dissimilar to the storage of chemicals which you already have in your workplace. Consider the following, storage at normal room temperature (avoid temperature extremes), good ventilation, adequate space and segregation and finally fire detection and suppression.  Naturally, all of these points of good practice will vary dependent on the type, size and quantity of lithium-ion batteries which you store.

Finally, don’t forget your planning should the worst occur.  Specialist lith-ex extinguishers are available and typically use AVD (Aqueous Vermiculite Dispersion) to tackle fires. If you are storing higher quantities then a specialist fire risk assessment is required and this might also mean contacting your local fire authority to register the presence of these items.  If you need this kind of Fire Risk Assessment please do get in touch or request a call back.

Find out more about the safe storage of lithium-ion batteries below.

Introduction

Lithium-ion batteries play a crucial role in various industrial applications, including energy storage, manufacturing, and logistics. However, their high energy density presents significant fire and safety risks if not stored correctly. Industrial facilities must implement robust safety measures in line with UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines to prevent potential hazards.

Understanding the Risks

Improper storage of lithium-ion batteries in industrial settings can lead to:

• Thermal runaway, resulting in overheating, fire, or explosion.
• Chemical leaks, which pose risks of toxic gas release.
• Electrical short circuits, due to improper handling or accidental damage.
• Mechanical damage, leading to punctures that can cause internal short circuits.

Adhering to industry best practices and regulatory guidelines can significantly reduce these risks.

Best Practices for Industrial Storage

1. Storage Facility Requirements

• Store lithium-ion batteries in designated, well-ventilated areas away from combustible materials.
• Maintain temperature-controlled storage between 15°C and 25°C to reduce the risk of overheating.
• Ensure storage areas are equipped with fire-resistant barriers and non-conductive shelving.
• Use explosion-proof ventilation systems where large battery volumes are stored.

2. Segregation and Classification

• Separate batteries by charge level, size, and chemistry to prevent thermal propagation.
• Store defective or damaged batteries in clearly marked, fireproof containers.
• Maintain a safe distance between storage racks to allow for adequate air circulation and fire containment.

3. Fire Prevention and Suppression Systems

• Install automatic fire detection and suppression systems, such as water mist or gas-based extinguishers suitable for lithium-ion battery fires.
• Provide Class D and lithium-specific fire extinguishers within reach of storage areas.
• Implement early detection systems, including temperature and gas sensors, to identify potential failures before they escalate.

4. Safe Handling Procedures

• Train employees on proper battery handling to prevent mechanical damage or accidental short circuits.
• Use insulated tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling large battery packs.
• Regularly inspect batteries for physical damage, leakage, or swelling, and remove compromised units immediately.

5. Emergency Response Planning

• Develop a comprehensive fire and hazard response plan that includes evacuation procedures.
• Conduct regular fire drills and employee training on emergency handling of battery-related incidents.
• Establish partnerships with local fire services to ensure they are familiar with site-specific hazards and response requirements.

6. Regulatory Compliance and Documentation

• Follow HSE guidance on hazardous material storage (HSG71) and Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR).
• Maintain records of battery inventory, inspections, and incident reports for audit purposes.
• Comply with the ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) if batteries are transported offsite.

Conclusion

Industrial lithium-ion battery storage requires rigorous health, safety, and fire risk management protocols. By implementing HSE-compliant practices and proactive safety measures, businesses can mitigate risks, protect personnel, and ensure operational continuity. Regular staff training, emergency preparedness, and adherence to regulatory guidelines are key to safe and efficient battery storage in industrial environments.

HSE guidance link: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg139.pdf

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 of Safety Harness Inspections

Safety harnesses are integral components of fall arrest systems, designed to protect workers from injuries resulting from falls. Regular inspections are essential to ensure that these harnesses maintain their integrity and functionality over time. Factors such as general wear and tear, exposure to ultraviolet light, dirt, grit, and chemicals can degrade the synthetic fibres used in webbing and rope lanyards, potentially compromising their effectiveness.

Legal Obligations for Employers

Employers are legally required to maintain fall arrest equipment in good repair and to conduct regular inspections. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 stipulate that equipment exposed to conditions causing deterioration, which could result in dangerous situations, should be inspected at suitable intervals and after any exceptional circumstances that might jeopardize safety. citeturn0search0

Establishing an Effective Inspection Regime

An effective inspection regime should encompass the following components:

• Pre-Use Checks: Users should perform visual and tactile inspections of the harness before each use to identify any immediate defects or damage.
• Detailed Inspections: A competent person should conduct thorough examinations at regular intervals, typically every six months. However, if the equipment is used frequently or in harsh environments, more frequent inspections (e.g., every three months) may be necessary.
• Interim Inspections: Additional inspections may be warranted between detailed inspections, depending on the nature and conditions of use.

The inspection regime should be documented, detailing the frequency and type of inspections, the designated competent persons responsible, criteria for withdrawing equipment from use, and procedures for recording and monitoring inspections.

What to Look for During Inspections

During inspections, attention should be given to:

• Webbing and Rope Components: Check for cuts, fraying, abrasion, discolouration, or any signs of chemical or UV damage.
• Stitching: Ensure all stitching is intact and shows no signs of loosening or wear.
• Metal Fittings: Inspect buckles, D-rings, and other metal parts for signs of distortion, cracks, corrosion, or excessive wear.

Any equipment found to be defective should be immediately withdrawn from service and either destroyed or returned to the manufacturer for repair if deemed feasible.

Training and Competence

It’s crucial that individuals responsible for inspecting safety harnesses are competent, have received appropriate training and possess the necessary skills to identify potential issues. This competence ensures that inspections are carried out effectively, maintaining the safety of all personnel working at height.

Conclusion

Regular and thorough inspection of safety harnesses, as outlined in HSE’s INDG367, is vital for workers operating at height. By adhering to these guidelines and implementing a robust inspection regime, employers can significantly reduce the risk of equipment failure and ensure a safer working environment.  You can also download the HSE guide to safety harness inspections here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg367.htm

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 announced that this will be a key focus for them for enforcement visits in both 2025 and 2026.

If you haven’t had wood dust monitoring completed in the last 3 years we would strongly advise you to do so and we can carry this out on your behalf. If you are an existing Safety~net member (or if you become a member) we can carry this out under your support time.  If you are not a member then we can also complete these assessments to HSE Method MDHS 14/4.  If you don’t have this in place and are visited by an HSE Inspector you can expect to receive an Improvement Notice, a prohibition Notice or, at the very least, a Fee for Intervention fine – at a current £174 per hour these can soon run into hundreds and then thousands of pounds.  Contact Roger Hart directly or request a call back and we can provide a cost within 2 working days.

When you have the results of our wood dust monitoring survey you will have clear advice on how you can effectively manage your risk.  This will include sweeping the workshop (or rather avoiding this and using appropriate extraction) and also the need for appropriate health surveillance. See our post on the selection of vacuums for some more information and appropriate classes for these.  Red on below for further advice and guidance on why wood dust monitoring is required.

Why Companies in the UK Should Prioritise Air Monitoring for Wood Dust

The Hidden Danger: Wood Dust in the Workplace

For industries such as woodworking, construction, and furniture manufacturing, wood dust is an unavoidable by-product. However, its impact on workers’ health and safety is often underestimated. The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) classifies wood dust as a hazardous substance, meaning businesses must take necessary precautions to protect employees. One of the most effective measures is implementing an air monitoring system to assess and control exposure levels.

Health Risks Associated with Wood Dust

Prolonged exposure to wood dust can have serious health consequences. The fine particles can be easily inhaled, leading to respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and lung fibrosis. Some types of wood, like hardwoods and MDF, contain carcinogenic compounds, increasing the risk of nasal and lung cancers. Regular air monitoring helps identify areas with high dust concentrations, enabling employers to take preventive actions before health problems arise.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

The UK has strict regulations governing workplace exposure to wood dust. Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, employers must ensure that workers are not exposed to harmful levels of dust. The Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) for hardwood dust is set at 3 mg/m³, while softwood dust is limited to 5 mg/m³ over an eight-hour period. Failure to comply can lead to hefty fines, legal action, and reputational damage. Air monitoring provides concrete data that allows businesses to demonstrate compliance and avoid penalties.

Improved Workplace Safety and Productivity

Excessive wood dust doesn’t just pose health risks—it also increases fire hazards. Fine dust particles suspended in the air can ignite, leading to potentially devastating explosions. Moreover, a cleaner and safer work environment enhances employee morale and productivity. Workers are more engaged and efficient when they feel their health and safety are prioritised.

Cost-Effective Long-Term Investment

Some companies may hesitate to invest in air monitoring due to cost concerns, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the expenses. By identifying high-risk areas early, businesses can implement targeted dust control measures, reducing the need for costly compensation claims and employee sick leave. Furthermore, compliance with safety regulations prevents potential legal expenses and business disruptions.

How to Implement an Effective Air Monitoring System

To ensure workplace air quality remains within safe limits, companies should consider the following steps:

1. Conduct Regular Air Quality Assessments – Use professional air sampling techniques to measure dust concentrations in different areas.
2. Invest in High-Quality Extraction Systems – Proper Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems help remove dust at the source.
3. Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Respiratory protective equipment should be available for workers in high-exposure zones.
4. Train Employees on Dust Control Measures – Workers should be aware of the risks and best practices for reducing exposure.
5. Review and Update Safety Policies – Continuous assessment and improvement of dust management strategies ensure ongoing compliance and worker protection.

Conclusion

Air monitoring for wood dust is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a fundamental responsibility of businesses to protect their employees’ health and well-being. By proactively measuring and controlling dust exposure, companies can create a safer workplace, boost productivity, and avoid legal repercussions. Investing in air monitoring is an investment in the future of both workers and businesses alike.

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 period where you don’t have the right support in-house or if you require an external expert to work with and in support of your internal resource we are always the right choice. We retain over 95% of our clients over a 5-year period and that is all the proof you need to know we can give you everything you need for competent person support.  Call us or request a call back and see how we can enhance your health and safety.

The Benefits of having an External Competent Person for Health and Safety

Introduction

Health and safety regulations in the UK require businesses to have access to competent health and safety advice. While some companies may opt to manage this in-house, hiring an external competent person can provide significant advantages. In this blog, we explore the key benefits of outsourcing health and safety responsibilities to an external expert.

What is a Competent Person in Health and Safety?

A competent person, as defined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), is someone with sufficient training, experience, or knowledge to assist a business in meeting its health and safety obligations. This role is critical in ensuring compliance with legal requirements and maintaining a safe working environment.

Key Benefits of an External Competent Person

1. Expert Knowledge and Compliance Assurance

An external competent person stays up-to-date with the latest UK health and safety laws, ensuring your business remains compliant. They help prevent costly fines and legal repercussions by implementing best practices and keeping documentation in order.

2. Cost-Effective Solution

Employing a full-time in-house health and safety officer can be expensive. Outsourcing provides a flexible, cost-efficient solution where businesses only pay for the services they need, reducing overhead costs while maintaining high safety standards.

3. Unbiased and Objective Assessments

External health and safety experts provide an independent perspective, identifying risks and compliance gaps that internal teams might overlook due to familiarity with workplace routines.

4. Reduced Workplace Accidents and Absenteeism

A proactive health and safety approach helps reduce workplace incidents, leading to fewer sick days and lower compensation claims. This boosts productivity and employee morale.

5. Tailored Safety Solutions

An external consultant assesses your business’s unique risks and provides customised policies and procedures that fit your specific industry needs, ensuring targeted and effective risk management.

6. Flexibility and Scalability

As your business grows, so do its health and safety needs. External experts can adapt their services accordingly, ensuring continued compliance without requiring a full-time internal hire.

7. Training and Staff Development

External professionals offer expert training and workshops, equipping employees with the necessary skills to identify and mitigate hazards, fostering a strong safety culture within the organisation.

Comparison Table: In-House vs External Competent Person

Conclusion

Outsourcing your health and safety responsibilities to an external competent person is a smart investment for UK businesses. It ensures compliance, reduces risks, improves employee well-being, and provides cost savings. Whether you run a small startup or a large corporation, having an external expert can be the key to maintaining a safe and legally compliant workplace.

Looking for a Reliable Health and Safety Consultant?

Contact us today to find out how our expert advisors can help you stay compliant and create a safer work environment!

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 energy directed to this when this valuable time could be spent working on the business.  This causes a lot of frustration and we have seen a 100% increase in the clients which we support for SSIP accreditation applications over recent years.  We have made videos on how to gain SSIP accreditations which have been widely viewed and also have staff dedicated to the process of getting our clients SSIP Approved in very short timescales.  In addition, we have saved our clients 10’s of thousands of pounds in fee’s by knowing in depth how the SSIP system works across the various providers working in the sector including CHAS, SMAS, Constructionline, Acclaim Achilles, SafeContactor and others.

If you need help now the good news is that you can speak to us today and we’ll get you SSIP accredited and approved in days, just contact Andrea or request a call back.  To learn more about SSIP Accreditation and how to get approved below:

Navigating the Path to SSIP Approval: A Comprehensive Guide

Becoming SSIP approved is not only a mark of excellence in your industry but also a crucial step towards enhanced safety, compliance, and competitiveness. In this blog post, we will explore the step‑by‑step process, share valuable tables outlining key milestones and benefits, and embed engaging visuals that illustrate the journey to achieving SSIP certification. Whether you’re in construction, engineering, or any industry that values safety standards, this guide is designed to support your strategic decisions and boost your SEO rankings with highly targeted content around SSIP approval.

What is SSIP Approval?

SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement) approval is a recognized accreditation that demonstrates an organization’s commitment to high safety standards and quality management. Companies that attain SSIP approval typically enjoy:

• Enhanced reputation: Proven safety and risk mitigation.
• Regulatory compliance: Assurance that operations meet or exceed industry safety requirements.
• Competitive advantage: Opportunity to bid on contracts that require accredited safety standards.

Step-by-Step SSIP Approval Process

The journey to becoming SSIP approved is methodical and thorough. The process evaluates your current safety procedures, documentation, and on‑site practices. Below is an illustrative table that highlights the main steps involved in the SSIP approval process:

SSIP Approval Process

Key Benefits of Becoming SSIP Approved

Earning your SSIP approval brings a host of benefits that can transform your business operations and market positioning. The accreditation not only validates your commitment to safety but also translates into tangible business gains.

Each benefit contributes directly not just to a safer working environment, but also to improved business performance and market reputation. By consistently mentioning “SSIP approved benefits” and related keywords, this section improves your article’s SEO ranking potential.

How to Prepare for the SSIP Approval Process

Here are some actionable tips to prepare and ensure a smooth transition into SSIP certification:

1. Conduct a Self-Audit: Evaluate your current safety procedures against SSIP standards. Identify areas for improvement early.
2. Update Documentation: Ensure that all safety protocols, risk assessments, and operational procedures are up-to-date and compliant with industry standards.
3. Invest in Training: Provide robust safety training for your team. This not only aligns with SSIP requirements but also fosters a proactive safety culture.
4. Engage with Consultants: Consider hiring safety consultants experienced with SSIP processes to guide you through the improvements needed before the official assessment.
5. Continuous Improvement: SSIP approval isn’t the end goal—it’s the beginning of a journey toward continuous safety enhancement. Regularly review and update your protocols.

Infusing this section with frequent “SSIP approval” and “SSIP certification” keywords embeds SEO-rich phrases that entice search engines and the right audience.

Conclusion: Embrace the SSIP Advantage

Achieving SSIP approval is more than just gaining a certification—it’s a strategic investment in the health, safety, and future growth of your business. The comprehensive steps, clearly defined process, and significant benefits make SSIP certification a critical milestone for companies aiming to excel in competitive markets.

Implement the outlined process steps, leverage our preparatory tips, and soon you too will see the business transformation that comes with being SSIP approved. Start your journey today, refine your safety standards, and position your business at the forefront of industry excellence.

Further Reading & Resources

• SSIP Official Website: Explore detailed guidelines, FAQs, and the latest updates on SSIP standards.
• Safety & Compliance Tips: Learn more about integrating modern safety protocols into your operations.
• Case Studies: Read about successful companies that transformed their safety culture through SSIP approval.

By incorporating rich visuals, detailed tables, and SEO-focused language, this guide not only informs but also helps optimize your digital content for higher search engine rankings. Embrace the benefits of SSIP approval and transform your operational standards today!

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 sectors and we’re still working today to get the message out to more people.

These risks remain misunderstood and most people are unaware of the manner in which personal exposure limits may still be breached even where water dust suppression is in use.  We provide advice, training and air monitoring to ensure that you have the right precautions in place.  Call us or request a call back and speak to an expert about how you can protect the health of your workers and protect them from inhalation of respirable crystalline silica (RCS)

Silica in stone working – new advice for installers of stone worktops

Stone workers are at risk of exposure to airborne particles of stone dust containing respirable crystalline silica (RCS) when processing stone, including engineered stone, by cutting, chiselling, and polishing.

Why this matters

Breathing in the silica particles in stone dust over time can cause permanent, life-changing, and often fatal lung conditions.

This includes:

• silicosis
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• lung cancer

New guidance available

HSE has worked with the industry to create new guidance that will help protect worktop installers. The guidance explains what employers and workers need to do to stay safe from stone dust.

The guidance covers 3 main areas:

• competent staff and effective processes – how to ensure workers are properly trained and processes protect them
• pre-installation actions – what to do before installation begins
• on-site installation actions – how to work safely during installation

To find important safety advice and access further resources visit our Work Right campaign website.

You can also read HSE’s detailed guidance: Installing stone worktops: protect against harmful natural or artificial stone dust

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 explore how we could work in partnership with you on safety matters in the UK.

Today the Health and Safety Executive have issued new guidance for those involved in grid-scale battery energy storage systems.  A copy of the safety advice can be viewed on the HSE website by clicking on this link: https://www.hse.gov.uk/electricity/battery-energy-storage-systems.htm

This summarises the responsibilities held by designers, installers and operators of these systems and also gives advice on other agencies who might be helpful or have specific requirements to place on any such project including Local Planning Authorities, DEFRA, Fire England and other Fire and Rescue Services and the Environment Agency.

The list of regulations that might apply is listed below.  Please note that the application of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations will depend on the particular design of the energy storage facility and that the use of lithium-ion batteries will also carry a linked risk from a localised fire and potential thermal runaway should a fire occur.

More information is presented below:

Health and safety responsibilities

If you design, install or operate BESS, you have a legal responsibility to comply with health and safety legislation, including:

• Health and Safety at Work Act – places legal duties on employers to manage risks to employees, other workers and the public
• Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations – set minimum requirements for the protection of workers and others from fire and explosion risks
• Electricity at Work Regulations – require precautions to be taken against the risk of death or personal injury from electricity in work activities
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (on legislation.gov.uk) – require risks to be assessed and appropriately managed
• Construction Design and Management Regulations – set requirements to ensure the whole construction project is carried out in a way that secures health and safety
• Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations – requires the operators of sites which hold 25 tonnes or more of a dangerous substance to notify their local fire and rescue service in writing, and to display signs

If you comply with these regulations you will manage the health and safety risks of BESS.

Planning permission

Planning permission for BESS is a matter for local planning authorities. To find out if your project will need planning permission, contact your local planning authority (LPA) through your local council.

Each nation in Great Britain has its own responsibility for planning policy:

• Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government – planning policy in England (on GOV.UK)
• Scottish Government – planning policy in Scotland (on mygov.scot)
• Welsh Government – planning policy in Wales (on GOV.Wales)

HSE has a limited role in the planning process. We should only be consulted by developers and local authorities on planning proposals that appear to fall within known consultation zones around:

• major hazard establishments
• major accident hazard pipelines
• licensed explosives sites

Find out more about HSE’s role in land use planning.

Environmental protection

Environmental issues (including if a permit for emissions and discharges for BESS is required) are a matter for the following:

• Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (on GOV.UK)
• Scottish Government (on mygov.scot)
• Welsh Government (on GOV.Wales)

Notifying your fire and rescue service

Under the Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations, if you are an operator of a BESS site which holds 25 tonnes or more of dangerous substances, you must notify your local fire and rescue service to inform their emergency response planning.

Find your fire service on:

• Fire England
• Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
• Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service
• South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
• North Wales Fire and Rescue Service

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 to determine both the actual levels of vibration and also the appropriate actions which can be adopted to prevent harm and control exposures.

We have worked with a number of businesses across many sectors to help them in this field and can call on a number of different resources to help you manage this issue.  If you are a member of our Safety~net competent person support scheme please contact us for specific advice, if you need help then please request a callback and we’ll get in touch to discuss how we can assist.

Below is the safety alert from the Health and Safety Executive on Hand Arm Vibration HAVS.