Category Archives: Health & Safety

Health & Safety, News

The burnt toast productivity tax: Almost one in four false fire alarms set off by charred food

£40,000 average annual cost from repeated false fire alarm fines, pinpointing burnt food, steam, faulty detectors, and vape or cigarette smoke as major contributors

SMEs surveyed have faced an average cost of just under £40,000 from repeated false fire alarms fines, with the biggest perpetrators being burnt food, steam, faulty detectors, and vape and cigarette smoke.

Just over a third of those surveyed (34 per cent) identified loss of productivity as the biggest business cost of false alarms, with a further 6 per cent citing missed meetings and 11 per cent saying evacuation disruption is the costliest.

The data, which was commissioned by Kidde Commercial and conducted by Censuswide, investigated the cost of repeated fire alarms on SMES in the UK, with the businesses surveyed having on average four false alarms a year with almost two in five of the UK business owners surveyed (37 per cent) admitting they had set off a fire alarm at work.[1]

Burnt toast, vapes and steamy showers top the hit list

The top triggers to a false fire alarm blaring cited by respondents are burnt food (24 per cent) and a faulty detector (23 per cent). Steam was also a common trigger with 14 per cent of UK SME business owners surveyed citing this as such.

The rise of vapes, which can still be smoked in many public places, is also contributing to the problem with 14 percent of businesses surveyed having experienced a false alarm from an e-cigarette or vape within the last five years.

Beyond triggers, faulty detectors and incorrect positioning of detectors can also create false alarms. For example, an alarm positioned too close to kitchen or bathroom areas can be problematic.

Introducing the Kidde Commercial 2X-A, 2X-AT and Excellence Series Solution

The data shows that just under a quarter (23%) of false fire alarms experienced in the office by UK respondents are set off due to a faulty detector. The new Kidde Commercial upcoming 2X-A, 2X-AT and Excellence Series solution product launch offers technologies and features to help better protect workplaces and people including:

  • Substantially reduced false alarms: Intelligent detectors give a more accurate detection of smoke, reducing false alarms with a patented Optical Chamber.
  • Powered by AI, always in touch : Connected gateways to the panel means it can be an all-in-one visit, delivering an 80% reduction in responding to emergencies.
  • Installation costs cut by 17%: Allows new detectors to be fitted to legacy systems, meaning overall new intelligent devices are quicker to commission and maintain.
  • Patented Optical Sensing: Excellence Series is the first detector to differentiate between nuisance particles (for example cooking particles) and serious threats.

Alarm fatigue spreads

Almost two in five SME business owners surveyed (37%) also admit they don’t immediately evacuate following a fire alarm[2] – with some awaiting further instructions (7%), or even waiting to pack up their belongings (10%). This further exacerbates the productivity problem, as well as creating an ongoing safety risk.

The 2X-A, 2X-AT and Excellence Series solution enables managers to also access alarm details on mobile devices, making it more accessible and easier to find the source of the alarm. This ensures that all faults and emergencies are picked up immediately including unmanned property, and can be handled out of hours including evenings and weekends.

Arman Saeidnia, GM Fire EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) said that: “Our research shows that the number of fire alarms costing UK businesses is disruptive and often a strain on our productivity at work. It’s vital businesses know the triggers and upgrade technologies to ensure false alarms are kept to a minimum. Alarm fatigue can lead to complacencies within the workplace – making it harder for people to properly evacuate and react in the case of an actual emergency.”

—

Research methodology:

The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 501 small to medium business owners in the UK who work in person (aged 18+). The data was collected between 17.01.2024 and 22.01.2024. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.

[1] ‘Yes, once’, and ‘Yes, more than once’ answers combined.

[2] Inverse of the answer option ‘Immediately evacuate’ (63.47%) when asked the question ‘If a fire alarm goes off in your workplace, how, if in any way, would you react? (Select one)’.

Health & Safety, News

Making these 9 dangerous mistakes in the workplace could prove fatal

We all know the importance of health and safety in the workplace and why guidelines are put in place to protect us. For both employees and employers, the finer details may be lesser known depending on how rigorous your health and safety documentation and guidelines are.

To encourage worker safety and accountability from employers, Horizon Platforms has shared some common mistakes that could be hazardous to health and wellbeing. This provides guidelines relevant for both office and manual workers. Take a look below.

The worst health and safety mistakes to make in your workplace

1.   Undertaking dangerous activities without supervision

Sometimes you may undertake dangerous activities which have been risk assessed and which are crucial for your line of work. When taking on any dangerous activity it is of utmost importance to ensure you have someone with you to supervise, where necessary or appropriate. This person can advise you on obstructed vision tasks, give you additional reassurance and also be available to call for help should anything go wrong.

2.   Working during adverse weather conditions

This winter we have seen sub-zero temperatures and stormy conditions, making it crucial to assess the risk before you decide to work in adverse conditions. Not only can cold cause frostbite and hypothermia, in extreme cases, but ice is one of the biggest causes of slips and falls which could lead to serious injury (HSE). Hailstone and snowstorms also may risk your ability to complete your work safely if you work outside, any obstructions to your vision should be accounted for and risk assessed before you begin work, if at all.

3.   Working at height without proper equipment or PPE

Falls when working at height is one of the leading causes of fatal injury at work (HSE), making it imperative to stay safe if you need to undertake tasks at height as part of your role. Where required, you should ensure you have access to the most appropriate working-at-height equipment such as Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) or mobile scaffold towers, for example, and provide the right training and protective equipment, which may include harnesses, horizontal lifelines, work restraint systems and hard hats.

4.   Neglecting safety training

Skipping or rushing health and safety training is a no-no for employers and employees. This may feel like a chore or take time from your work day but this is time well spent as it could make the difference between life and death, as you learn how to avoid unnecessary risk in the workplace. Employers could be at risk of fines if they are found to not be properly following health and safety guidance within their respective industries.

5.   Cutting corners on risky tasks

Unfortunately, there have been news stories where companies have been fined for taking shortcuts. Saving time may seem appealing but could put you and others at risk, especially when working at height or operating machinery, for example. Manual workers are most at risk of taking shortcuts, as skipping steps in these types of tasks usually bypasses health and safety guidance. Not only could this be risking yourself but also your co-workers.

6.   Working when you don’t have a clear mind

Being honest about pre-existing mental health conditions and sharing changes in your life which may impact your mental wellbeing are all important steps to take at work to ensure you can be properly supported by your employer, and employers should be open and non-judgmental to these issues. Anxiety and depression remain the most common mental health conditions suffered by workers in the UK, having an understanding and making reasonable adjustments to support this will reduce your risk at work of making mistakes and burning out. If you have suffered a bereavement or life event which impacts your ability to work, you should always let your boss know so they can accommodate this. Neglecting your mental health has a long-term impact on your health, affecting areas such as sleep, diet and critical thinking skills. Good employers will offer support with respect to mental health issues, as will mental health charities and services. So, if you or any of your team it’s best not to struggle on your own because unintentional accidents and injuries can occur.

7.   Pressuring your employees to work overtime and not take breaks

Senior leaders and managers should set a good example and encourage workers to take regular breaks. Asking your employees to work overtime and through their lunch breaks may not be legal and can lead to detrimental impact on their physical and mental health. Hitting a deadline is important but safety and the health and wellbeing of team members is far more important. Burnout is the biggest risk a lack of breaks may cause, as well as sleep disruption, poor diet and mistakes being made which may be dangerous due to not letting your staff switch off and recharge.

8.   Leaving machinery switched on and using faulty tools

Some machinery is already dangerous to use and will require operation and health and safety training to use, making it important to always follow manufacturer and safety guidelines. Some machinery can cause permanent and irreparable damage to your physical health. Making sure you switch off tools and machines out of use is a good habit to have to ensure you don’t unnecessarily put yourself or others at risk. You should also never take risk and use faulty machinery that is known to not work to standard.

9.   Working in a building which doesn’t follow safety guidelines

Commercial building owners, tenants and landlords are all bound by different rules to follow for health and safety. UK employers must carry out fire risk assessments and have a plan in place should a fire occur. Businesses should appoint a fire marshal, keep documentation up to date and run regular fire drills to make sure all staff know the procedure to follow in the event of a fire. UK commercial building owners and landlords need to also have gas appliances checked every 12 months and follow standards for electrical appliances within their buildings. Since 2012 building owners are also expected to take steps to find out if their buildings contain asbestos and follow the correct procedures for removing this safely (The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012).

 

Employment, Employment Law, Health & Safety, Law, News

Founder of a new dispute resolution service is issuing a series of videos on social media as part of an eye-catching new campaign.

Chris Joseph, founder of Right Against Might, says he came up with the idea as he wants to alert people to the dangers of trying to please their employers and hitting crazy deadlines.

RAM, set up earlier this year by the former advertising executive, seeks to hold the biggest businesses and organisations to account on behalf of underdog consumers.

Using a unique creative approach, the company aims to secure “swift justice” without resorting to legal action for thousands of people across the UK with nowhere else to turn.

The journey for Chris began when he decided against becoming a Catholic priest, after training in a monastery, and subsequently lost an arm the following day in an industrial accident when he was pulled into the gears of a gantry crane.

He says in the video that corporate greed cost him an arm and asks the viewer – “Do You Work for a Pharaoh?”

It is an appeal for people to slow down a little and show some consideration to others, damping down the haste of life that can result in accidents, conflicts and even death.

 

Chris says: “The World’s leaders must stop ignoring the health and safety of its peoples for the sake of selfish political expediency for themselves and their countries.

“All born innocent and equal into different circumstances and nobody’s slaves or warmongers, we are forced to live and die by unnatural money driven routines by a ticking clock.

“Traumatised by events and fear of dying and the deaths of loved ones, we crash into and injure others to meet crazy deadlines to survive and feed our families and make others and ourselves ever richer and more comfortable; little wonder we have ‘accidents’ and get injured or sick…and die.”

 

He commented: “There is a pure way of looking at this world, which is we all slow down a bit and take each other into consideration a little bit, and we think about the other sides of the coin as far as a person is concerned and their safety and their health.

“If my message saves one life or one injury it is worth doing.”

 

The video will be issued on social media in different languages during December.

 

It can be seen here: https://twitter.com/ChrisJosephPAX/status/1729764510334886337

The video message was first viewed on X in Hindi in Uttarakhand, India, scene of yesterday’s dramatic rescue of the 41 trapped miners.

 

Automotive, Automotive Tech, Awards, Driving, Driving Tech, Health & Safety

Pocket Box Scoops Northern Ireland Road Safety Award for Fleet Technology Innovation

Pocket Box, the vehicle and driver management software specialist, was a winner at the Northern Ireland Road Safety Awards. The company received the business category for the development of innovative fleet technology applications that are helping vehicle operators to improve road safety, protect drivers and enhance compliance.

“Our cloud-based software is focused on optimising road safety by creating a holistic fleet ecosystem that ensures vehicles are kept road legal and safe, while staff are fit and eligible to drive,” explains Jim Finnegan, CEO of Pocket Box Ltd. “We are delighted to gain this this award from Road Safe NI, which is recognition for the progress we have made this year and the commitment of our entire team.”

 

Pocket Box Fleet is web-and app-based management tool that is designed to streamline fleet-related tasks for both businesses and drivers, providing a simple way to maintain compliance, reduce risk and save time and money. Launched at the end of 2022, the company is on track to reach over 5,000 managed vehicles on the system this year, with an exciting roadmap of future enhancements and integrations with complementary fleet technologies and applications planned.

The Northern Ireland Road Safety Awards, organised by Road Safe NI, took place at Cultra Manor in Holywood. A total of 14 awards were presented to individuals, organisations and special projects from across the voluntary, education, emergency service, public and business sectors, recognising their contribution to helping improve road safety in their communities. This year’s event was hosted by broadcaster and journalist, Frank Mitchell, and supported by headline sponsor, CRASH Services.

 

David Jackson, Chairperson of Road Safe NI, commented: “Pocket Box has made giant strides in the past 12 months, developing safety and compliance tools that are already benefitting many thousands of individual consumers and commercial fleet users. We are thrilled to celebrate their success that is making such a contribution to road safety in Northern Ireland, and which makes this award richly deserved.”

Driving, Driving Tech, Education, Health & Safety, News

Applied Driving Offers Fleets Free Access to Driver Education Resources in Support of Road Safety Week

Applied Driving, the global provider of driver safety and performance management solutions, is offering free access to its e-learning module library and complimentary downloadable resources to coincide with Brake’s annual Road Safety Week campaign. The company is encouraging fleets to take advantage of the free resources during November to help support drivers with the tools they need to improve safe driving behaviour.

E-Learning – Fleet Drivers

The e-learning modules – available through Applied Driving’s online portal, Riskmapp – cover key road safety topics including speed awareness, distracted driving, and EV familiarisation. The library consists of over 40 modules and is available in multiple languages. The modules have been created to be a supportive, skill-enhancing environment for drivers using the latest learning techniques and safety research. In addition, a series of Road Safety Bulletins are available for download that contain essential information and guidance on areas such as driver fatigue and winter driving.

E-Learning – Driver Fatigue

“We take great pride in standing alongside Brake, the road safety charity, supporting their annual Road Safety Week campaign,” explains Andy Phillips, Global Managing Partner at Applied Driving. “We are thrilled to offer complementary access to our driver education resources as part of our ongoing commitment to road safety improvement and amplifying Brake’s vital message. We are also hosting a free speed awareness webinar that will share invaluable insight and guidance, as well as running a Driver Safety Challenge that is designed to educate and incentivise drivers to enhance their driving styles.”

To request access to the driver safety resources, sign-up to the speed awareness webinar and view the latest updates on Applied Driving’s Road Safety Month, visit here.

Health & Safety, News, Wellbeing News

The Relationship Between Employee Morale and Workplace Safety

Safety and morale might seem like separate facets of a workplace environment. However, a closer look reveals that these two are intricately connected, playing a critical role in the overall health and productivity of an organisation.

How Morale Influences Safety

High employee morale often translates to more attentive, focused workers. When an individual feels valued, recognised, and engaged at work, they tend to be more diligent about following protocols correctly. For example, they may be more likely to use the equipment from PPE suppliers, and less likely to cut corners or engage in risky behaviours simply because they take pride in their work and feel a sense of responsibility towards their colleagues.

On the other hand, an employee facing constant stress, feelings of inadequacy, or under-appreciation might be more prone to distractions. Such states of mind can easily lead to lapses in safety protocols, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Safety Spurs Morale

Workplace safety isn’t just about avoiding accidents. It’s a direct reflection of how much an organisation values its employees. When workers see that their wellbeing is a priority, it creates trust and respect for the management. The provision of safety training, protective equipment, and prompt responses to concerns makes employees feel cared for.

Knowing that an organisation has their back, workers are likely to experience higher job satisfaction, reduced stress levels, and a stronger bond with the company. This emotional uplift can result in a positive feedback loop: improved morale leading to even better safety practices.

The Economic Ramifications

It’s not just about employee wellbeing, either. There’s an economic dimension to this relationship too. Businesses that overlook the connection between morale and safety might face increased insurance premiums due to repeated workplace accidents. On the flip side, a boost in employee morale can lead to higher efficiency and productivity, positively impacting a business’s bottom line.

What are the Benefits?

The symbiotic relationship between workplace morale and workplace safety has tangible benefits. Companies that make both a top priority often report:

  • Reduced absenteeism: Happy, safe employees tend to take fewer sick days.
  • Lower turnover rates: A safe and positive work environment means that fewer employees will look elsewhere for job opportunities.
  • Increased productivity: A stress-free, secure environment allows employees to focus better on their tasks.

Building the Bridge

Establishing a solid connection between employee morale and safety requires intention. Here are some actionable steps organisations can take:

  • Open communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable voicing their concerns about safety or their wellbeing.
  • Regular training: Keep safety training sessions regular, ensuring that everyone is up to date with the latest protocols.
  • Recognition and rewards: Celebrate safety milestones. Recognising teams or individuals for safe practices can help with boosting morale.

While they may seem distinct at first, employee morale and workplace safety are two sides of the same coin. One positively impacts the other, and by understanding this dynamic, companies can cultivate an environment that not only safeguards its employees but also nurtures their engagement and motivation.

Health & Safety, News

Transport for Wales’ Pop-up exhibition is a ‘brutal reminder’ of the dangers of trespassing on railway tracks

A new pop-up exhibition in Cardiff’s St David’s Centre highlights the increased dangers of trespassing on rail tracks since the introduction of electrified Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) in Wales.

Set up by Transport for Wales (TfW) as part of its ‘No Second Chances’ campaign, the pop-up may look like many familiar clothing shops seen around Cardiff city centre but is in fact is a stark, visual representation of the damage OLE can do by electrification using the damaged clothing of fictional victims. Visitors will be confronted by displayed clothing of all shapes, sizes, styles and age-ranges, highlighting the indiscriminate dangers of trespassing on the rail line.

The ’No Second Chances’ campaign from Transport for Wales launched in May to coincide with the first stretch of OLE to be electrified in Wales, along the Core Valleys Line. The campaign draws attention to the danger posed by OLE to those who choose to trespass on the railway network, with the aim of discouraging trespassing and antisocial behaviour – particularly amongst young people.

The pop-up, which will be open Tuesday 27th and Wednesday 28th, is set to be a powerful and immersive educational experience. Schools from the area where OLE has recently been introduced are being invited to view the exhibition and will be able to take part in educational activities such as quizzes and decorating T-shirts with the safety messages they have learned.

Last year, more than 1,000 incidents of trespassing or antisocial behaviour were recorded on the Core Valleys Lines. The risk death or serious injury for those who trespass on rail tracks has increased significantly since OLE went ‘live’ for the South Wales Metro, carrying 25,000 volts of electricity. Contact with the overhead lines has a one in 10 survival rate and the heat generated from the shock can reach temperatures of over 3,000 degrees.

TfW has been taking additional measures to improve safety and security around rail tracks, with new fencing and extended safety barriers being added to key areas. However, numbers of cable theft and damage are still increasing, showing that people are still trespassing on the tracks despite the added dangers.

Lois Park, Head of Community and Stakeholder Engagement at TfW, said: “Bringing OLE to the railway network here in Wales is an exciting milestone for Transport for Wales, helping to make trains smoother, quieter and more energy efficient. But it comes with increased risks for those who choose to trespass on the network.

“Trespassing on the railway has always been dangerous, but the introduction of OLE means that – for those who may have gotten away with trespassing on the lines in the past – the risk of serious injury and death is now significantly higher. We know young people are some of the most likely to trespass on railway lines. This pop-up experience has been designed to serve as a brutal reminder of the danger of trespassing on the railway, and to educate young people about OLE in an engaging way, which we hope will have a lasting impact.

“The OLE system has been designed to keep people safe and as long as everyone respects the railway boundary and does not trespass onto the railway, they will be as safe. Electricity from OLE can jump, so you don’t have to touch it directly to be electrocuted. People should stay at least 2.75m away from the OLE at all times and take extra care when carrying objects such as umbrellas, helium balloons and fishing rods.”

As well as the threat of electrification, severe burns and ultimately death, those trespassing on the rail network could also receive a fine of up to £1,000.

If you see any suspicious behaviour on the tracks to the British Transport Police:

  • Call 0800 40 50 40
  • Text 61016
  • In an emergency call 999
  • Or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Health & Safety, Technology

Technology goes a long way towards employee safety

Technology has proven its importance over time, so it’s no wonder it has entered various industries. It helps companies and businesses be faster, make smarter decisions, save money, and protect their people.

According to the International Labour Organisation, there are about 360 million work-related accidents globally. The numbers are overwhelming, all the more so since this impacts labourers from all industries. Companies worldwide acknowledge the issue and have started to take action in this sense. One of their ways of doing things is implementing technology in the workplace. Technology might not be known for its role in enhancing employee safety, but the truth is that it goes a long way towards this purpose. So, apart from the well-known advantages of boosting productivity and helping IT departments develop robust strategies, technology also enhances employees’ protection through training, reporting, and monitoring, among others. Manufacturing and construction industries, in particular, are making use of advanced tools to minimise the risks associated with their business operations. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, gene editing, and cloud computing are just a few of the numerous technologies designed to enhance safety and health.

There’s no doubt: technology can change work environments for the better. But you must first know what technology to use and how to manage it to work for your specific type of business and needs. The above-mentioned recommendations may shed some light on this matter, so keep reading.

Training technologies

The lack of awareness among managers and employees regarding workplace safety has always been a concern. That’s why we’re starting by saying that training is not an option but an obligation. In industries that involve working under threatening conditions, such as construction and mining, labourers should dispose of the right work equipment, also called personal protective equipment (PPE). But in order to use this equipment to its highest potential, employees need accurate training. Business owners are obliged to provide workers with a comprehensive training program that educates them about workplace safety, including how to use PPE without exposing themselves to hazards.

Fortunately, technology is by your side. You can now enhance training programs with technological innovations such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Interactive training tools based on such technologies help provide workers with real-time training. In most cases, employees enter a virtual work environment similar to the real one and are put in diverse situations that require the use of equipment. This way, they learn how to handle the PPE correctly and hone their skills for real-life challenges. VR can be used for various purposes, including fire evacuations, so if you wonder whether this technology is suitable for your specific type of business, it most probably is.

Safety apps

Nowadays, there’s an application for almost everything, so if you’re looking for something to help you with workplace safety, you’re most likely to find one. These apps use advanced software that allows you to spot hazards due to a complex recording and notifying system. They collect valuable information in a single place so that you find it easy to manage safety-related issues from anywhere and at any time. Most apps in this respect are free, but they most likely don’t dispose of premium features such as measuring noise hazards. So, if you’re in search of a more complex technology, consider the premium apps available on both Google Play and App Store.

Such apps can also help you develop meaningful safety and health checklists and stay thus compliant with occupational safety regulations. Therefore, you minimise workplace accidents and keep employees safe from harm. As for the price, a monthly subscription to such services is obviously less expensive than drones and robots. However, no matter the cost, we recommend investing in safety technology, as it’s the most powerful way to keep employees safe and thrive. Besides, if one of your workers ever gets injured because you didn’t provide safe working conditions, the costs would be much more significant than the tools needed to protect these people. Remember that it’s the employee’s right to claim compensation for a work accident. So, ensure you remain compliant with occupational safety regulations and always prioritise your employees’ safety.

Robots

Drones and robots stand out within modern and emerging safety technology. And no matter how futuristic this might sound, many companies worldwide are using such technologies to complete hard, sometimes impossible for humans, tasks. AI-driven robots can help with everything from conducting inspections and doing repetitive tasks to more hazardous activities like exploring hard-to-reach locations and lifting heavy objects. There were about 23,000 industrial robots operating in UK factories in 2021, which is clear proof that automation has started to be increasingly taken into account. However, the robot density worldwide is downright impressive. Some popular countries leveraging robotics to such an extent that they introduced the technology in almost every area include South Korea, Japan, the USA, Canada, and Germany.

Drones

Drones, on the other hand, or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), are used mainly for site inspection. They help identify potential life-threatening hazards and prevent fatal injuries. Using such tools to assess the risk of a specific area would give you more insight into its safety level and possible measures to increase employee protection. Industries like construction and mining, which require working at heights, respectively underground, should consider this kind of technology, as they pose more injury risks than others.

Neither robots nor drones are challenging to use, as they usually come with a comprehensive instruction manual. Thus, you will learn how to set up drones with cameras, scanners, or sensors to perform tasks specific to your business.

Voice data collectors

Voice data collection technology has been around for quite a while, but this doesn’t mean it’s not fruitful. Hand-free devices such as headsets are especially helpful in gathering information that is hard to write down. In an organisation where the volume of information is incommensurable, voice data collectors are indispensable. Not only do they allow workers to perform routine safety checks more easily, but they also keep them more focused on their job.

 

Any of the technologies discussed above could push your company forward, so if you haven’t considered one yet, maybe it’s time to do so.

Health, Health & Safety

Taking Care Of Your Skin At Work – Tips For Preventing Occupational Dermatitis

Occupational dermatitis is a common condition caused by exposure to irritants or allergens in the workplace. It can affect anyone but is most common in people who work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. Symptoms include redness, itching, and rash, and if left untreated, it can lead to more serious skin conditions. 

In this guide, we will provide detailed step-by-step instructions on how to take care of your skin at work and tips for preventing occupational dermatitis. By understanding the causes and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect your skin and maintain its health.

 

The symptoms of occupational dermatitis

Occupational dermatitis is a serious skin condition that can have far-reaching effects. The longer it goes undetected, the greater the risk of long-term damage to the skin. People who are exposed to environmental irritants or allergens are especially at risk of developing this form of dermatitis. 

Common symptoms include redness and itchiness in affected areas, dryness and cracking of the skin, scaly patches, blistering and swelling, as well as thinning of the skin, which can make infections more likely. If you think you may be suffering from occupational dermatitis, it is important to seek medical advice right away in order to get an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment plan.

While skin problems may not sound to be a serious issue, dermatitis can have a significant impact on someone’s ability to work and enjoy everyday activities with friends and family. The seriousness of the issue can be seen through the  latest compensation amounts that have been awarded, which can reach close to £20,000

 

Understanding the causes of occupational dermatitis

Occupational dermatitis is a type of skin irritation that occurs as a result of exposure to certain substances in the workplace. These substances can include chemicals, soaps, detergents, solvents, and other irritants that come into contact with the skin. The condition can also be caused by prolonged exposure to water, as well as exposure to certain types of dust or other particles.

Certain industries are more likely to cause occupational dermatitis than others. For example, construction workers, factory workers, and healthcare professionals are at a higher risk of developing the condition due to the nature of their work. People who work with cleaning agents, paint, or other chemicals are also at an increased risk.

It’s important to understand the specific causes of occupational dermatitis in your workplace, so you can take the necessary precautions to protect your skin. If you are unsure about the specific irritants or allergens present in your workplace, it’s a good idea to speak with your employer or a safety professional to get more information.

 

Wear protective clothing to protect your skin

Wearing protective clothing is an important step in preventing occupational dermatitis. The type of protective clothing will depend on the specific irritants or allergens present in your workplace.

Gloves are an important piece of protective clothing that can help to shield your skin from irritants. When choosing gloves, it’s important to select a pair that is appropriate for the type of work you will be doing. Some materials, such as nitrile or neoprene, are more resistant to chemicals than others.

Long sleeves and pants can also be worn to protect your skin, though do choose breathable materials that will keep you cool and comfortable while you work.

Other protective clothing may include aprons, goggles, face masks, and respirators. It’s important to note that protective clothing should be properly maintained and replaced when worn out or damaged.

 

Use barrier creams

Barrier creams are formulated to help protect the skin from environmental irritants, chemicals, and other hazardous agents. They are essential for workers in certain industries, as they provide a layer of protection against contact dermatitis and other skin reactions caused by chemical exposure. 

Barrier creams also help to minimize drying, cracking, and chapping of the skin due to lack of moisture. Additionally, these creams can be used to keep hands clean and even hydrated after washing them, which also minimizes the chances of occupational dermatitis. When used correctly, barrier creams can be an effective way of protecting your skin while working in an industrial or hazardous environment.

 

Treating occupational dermatitis

Treating occupational dermatitis typically involves avoiding further contact with the causative agent or allergen and providing relief from symptoms. Medications such as topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and antibiotics may be recommended to reduce irritation, inflammation, and infection. 

Additional therapies such as phototherapy, ultraviolet light therapy, and topical creams may also be used to help relieve symptoms. If a serious allergic reaction is present, it is important that you seek urgent medical care. Taking steps to avoid known irritants can also help reduce your risk of developing occupational dermatitis in the first place.

 

Report the issue to your employer

If you believe that your occupational dermatitis is the result of conditions at work, it is important to report the issue to your employer. This will help protect you and other employees from similar issues in the future. 

Make sure you document any symptoms or reactions that you have experienced, as well as any details of how and when they occurred. It is also important to keep records of treatments, visits to healthcare providers, and any other information relevant to the issue. 

Your employer should investigate the matter further and take appropriate action to create a safe and healthy work environment for all.

 

When your employer doesn’t take the situation seriously.

If your employer is not taking the situation seriously and is not addressing the issue appropriately, there are a few steps you can take. You should start by getting in touch with your local occupational health and safety office to report the issue. They may have knowledge of common hazards in the workplace and be able to provide advice on what actions you can take. 

Additionally, it is worthwhile speaking to a legal professional who specialises in personal injury claims as they can advise you on any legal action that can be taken against your employer for their inaction. 

Driving, Health & Safety, Logistics Tech, News

Applied Driving Partners with Institute of Highway Engineers to Target Fleet and Driver Safety

Applied Driving has teamed up with the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) to improve health and safety for those working on the road network. The global provider of driver safety and performance management solutions has become an IHE Professional Development Partner, continuing to share best practices and help raise standards across the highways sector.

“This is an exciting opportunity to make a difference within the highways industry by promoting road safety and engaging with those responsible for constructing and maintaining our roads, explains Dr Jim Golby, Chairman at Applied Driving. “Our aim is to work closely with IHE members and other Professional Development Partners to establish new ways of communicating guidance on fleet and driver risk.”

The IHE is the UK’s leading professional organisation for specialist highway and traffic practitioners. It engages with government and industry to improve the highway environment, while providing assistance, leadership and professional development to over 3,500 members. The institute’s partnership programme is designed to promote closer cooperation between IHE and partners, supporting the provision of industry standard training and promoting the Highway Engineering Academy (HEA).

Steve Spender, CEO of the institute of Highway Engineers commented: “Applied Driving has been supporting us for some time, so it is fantastic to formalise our relationship and make them an important part of our Professional Development Partnership. The IHE is looking forward to involving them in several initiatives next year, and we have already invited their team to present at our branches across the UK on road-based employee safety.”

“We are already successfully supporting many IHE members with driver safety and performance management solutions that have enhanced their safe driving culture. Our services are helping organisations to ensure legal compliance, reduce incident costs, manage fleet risks and provide the latest training solutions, so we are well-placed to support the IHE regarding their road safety priorities,” concludes Golby.