The health and safety landscape continues to evolve with updated guidance, enforcement actions, and shifting work patterns. Today’s summary highlights new HSE advisories, recent penalties, hybrid working data, and stress management findings to help organisations stay proactive.
Regulatory Changes: Farm Event Safety Guidance
HSE reminds farmers hosting open farm events to implement robust visitor safety measures ahead of peak season (available at press.hse.gov.uk). This underscores the importance of thorough risk assessments, clear signage, and staff training for public-facing activities.
Enforcement Actions: Flour Mill Fine After Finger Injury
A flour mill was fined £300,000 after a worker severed a finger in machinery due to inadequate guarding and risk controls (available at press.hse.gov.uk). Companies must review machinery safeguards, maintenance schedules, and operator training to prevent similar incidents.
Technology & Innovation: Hybrid Working Trends
Hybrid working is now “the new normal” for over one in four UK workers, according to ONS data reported by Britsafe (available at: britsafe.org). Organisations should update policies and risk assessments to address home-based hazards and ensure consistent safety culture across locations.
Actionable takeaways:
- Review event risk controls: Update farm event procedures, signage, and staff briefings ahead of public visits.
- Strengthen machinery safeguards: Audit equipment guarding, maintenance, and training following the flour mill penalty.
- Adapt hybrid safety policies: Incorporate home-work risk assessments, supply guidance for remote setups, and ensure consistent safety messaging.
- Enhance stress management: Conduct regular wellbeing surveys, provide access to support resources, and train managers to identify and address stress indicators.
