Director of health and safety at the Canal & River Trust, Anne Gardner-Aston, shares what she’s most proud of achieving in the past four years since taking on a new role in the wake of a turbulent moment in the charity’s history.
By Belinda Liversedge on 02 December 2025
Although technologies like computer vision analysis, machine learning and wearable sensors are increasingly being used to identify and assess the causes of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), it’s essential to consider data relating to all aspects of work design when seeking to reduce MSDs in the workplace.
By Cam Stevens, Pocketknife Group on 03 December 2025
Although forward-thinking organisations are increasingly taking action on menopause awareness and support at work, attention is now turning to menstrual health as the next essential step in building an inclusive, equitable and high-performing workplace.
By Deborah Garlick, Menstruation Friendly by Henpicked on 03 December 2025
If tight-fitting respiratory facepieces are required to protect against inhalation of hazardous substances, wearers must undergo a fit test by a competent person. However, it’s essential employers understand the benefits and shortcomings of the available test methods.
By Paul Salisbury, Fire Safe International Ltd on 04 September 2025
The key ISO management standards setting out best practice frameworks for effectively managing occupational health and safety, environmental and quality risks and opportunities are undergoing major revision, so it’s essential businesses start planning now to meet the new requirements in order to maintain their certifications under the relevant standards.
By Dr Keith Whitehead, British Safety Council on 08 August 2025
Mobile and fixed gas detectors have long been a crucial tool for alerting workers to the presence of asphyxiating or explosive gases, but developments in smart and connected technology are making it much easier to monitor entire networks of detectors and respond immediately to alarms and emergencies that could pose a risk to life or site safety.
By Becca Dodds, Draeger Safety UK on 26 August 2025
Those responsible for business premises should provide assistive equipment to ensure the safe and efficient evacuation of people with mobility impairments. However, it is crucial that this equipment is regularly maintained and that staff are thoroughly trained in its use – otherwise, confusion and potentially fatal delays can arise in an emergency.
By Evac+Chair on 07 August 2025
Safety footwear can prevent slip, trip and fall injuries, but it’s essential to consider other factors that could positively or negatively affect wearer comfort, such as breathable materials, waterproof qualities and boot weight.
By Simon Ash, HAIX on 06 August 2025
Slip injuries to workers and members of the public can have a major financial impact on a business in terms of fines, compensation payouts and higher insurance premiums, so it’s essential to take a scientific approach to understanding and reducing slip risks.
By Christian Harris, Slip Safety Services on 01 August 2025
Virtual College by Netex speaks to Liz Longman, health and safety chartered professional and director of Terra Firma 360, to uncover how health and safety in the construction sector is advancing and hear about five key trends safety professionals should have on their radar.
By Liz Longman, Terra Firma 360 on 20 May 2025
The British Woodworking Federation’s annual Fire Door Safety Week this September will encourage duty holders such as those in charge of residential buildings to consider the dangers from lithium-ion batteries and ensure fire doors remain fit for purpose in reducing the risk should a battery-related fire break out.
By Helen Hewitt, British Woodworking Federation on 11 July 2025
From 4 July, the use of fire extinguishers and suppression systems containing the ‘forever chemical’ perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) will be prohibited, meaning duty holders need to move fast to ensure compliance with the law.
By Laurie Pollard, Firechief® Global on 09 July 2025
With UK fire services now tackling at least three Li-ion battery fires a day, it’s clear that stronger regulation and enforcement is urgently required to prevent the sale, use and modification of poor-quality and potentially dangerous batteries used in e-bikes and scooters.
By Adrian Simmonds, QBE Europe on 01 July 2025
